Henry Doorly Zoo- Simmons Aviary

The Simmons Aviary at Henry Doorly Zoo, Omaha Neb.
OPENED: 1983
See over 500 birds in the world's second largest free-flight aviary. In this four acre sanctuary guests see flamingos, ducks, swans, storks and cranes. The Aviary is 800 feet long and rises to 75 feet at the center.

The Structure

Over 142,000 square feet of two-inch nylon mesh, weighing about 8,000 pounds, covers the aviary. Supported by a system of cables and poles, it has a protective coating to prevent accumulation of ice and snow. The use of nylon instead of wire is a unique concept. It is expected that replacement will be necessary every five to eight years, at an estimated replacement installation cost of $60,000. In contrast, wire mesh would need replacement every 20 to 25 years at a cost of $300,000. Additional benefits of nylon are better appearance and more pleasing draping capabilities.

Three entrances are protected by spring-loaded doors and plastic chaining, hung vertically, light enough to avoid injury. The movement of these chains prevents birds from approaching the entrances too closely and possibly escaping. The exhibit features three covered gazebos and wooden walkways over 1,000 feet long.

The Landscaping

Water is supplied to the Aviary from a well dug into the hill beyond it. About 500,000 gallons a day are pumped into the system of streams and pools. Plantings and natural landscaping increases the amount of living area for the birds and enables larger numbers to occupy the acreage.

The Birds

About 500 birds from all parts of the world occupy the area, including storks which nest on the gazebos and a large flock of flamingos. A large colony of spoonbill ibis and egrets nest above the lagoon. Half of the birds require indoor shelter during the winter. A shelter under the center gazebo provides winter quarters for the flamingos and ibises. Approximately 14 feeding stations are located throughout the Aviary. While species may be periodically added or removed, care is taken to maintain individual niches and to minimize niche competition. Although an occasional native bird or squirrel will find its way into the aviary, the only species other than birds on display is the tufted deer.

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Travel & Events

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• birds