Owl Encounter

Owl Encounter

Daily at 1 pm
Members: $66.60 per person
Non-Members: $74 per person
Includes General Admission
Ages 6+

Hoot hoot, who-o-o-o wants to hold a mysterious owl?! Fly into the extraordinary world of owls during a National Aviary Owl Encounter with Apollo, Luna, or Cedar!

  • Meet one of our mystifying, adorable owl Animal Ambassadors!
    • Say hello to Eastern Screech-Owl Luna, who is remarkably curious about her surroundings, or Cedar, known for his impressive vocalizations, or Northern White-faced Owl, Apollo, who has stunning facial plumage.
  • Hold one of them on your gloved-hand with the assistance of an Aviary aviculturist*. 
  • Learn about an owl’s unique adaptations, from their uncanny ability to turn their head almost 360 degrees, to their exceptional eyesight and silent flight! Plus, closely look at an owl’s feathers, which allow them to perfectly camouflage against tree bark.
  • Find out how to help protect owls like Luna and Cedar in your backyard (Yes, Eastern Screech-Owls are native to Western Pennsylvania!).
  • Yes, you can take photos or videos and of course, ask our experts questions!

Book Owl Encounter!

*An aviculturist is a National Aviary expert who provides daily care for the owl

A light brown Eastern Screech-Owl calmly perched on the gloved hand of a National Aviary expert.

Questions? Email [email protected] or call 412-258-9445.

Additional Information

  • Owl Encounters are designed for those ages 6 and older. Children 15 and under must be accompanied by a paying adult.
  • Book before you visit to guarantee your experience. Same-day registration is based on limited program availability and cannot be guaranteed.  
  • At the National Aviary, we give our animals the choice to participate in interactive experiences with caring guests, like you!  Please provide your contact information when booking your encounter. If our Animal Ambassador needs a day of rest, we will contact you to reschedule your encounter. The comfort and safety of our animals and our guests is always our top priority. Thank you for understanding!

Proceeds from Animal Encounters support the National Aviary’s work to save birds and protect their habitats.

In The News

See All News

Newly Released Guam Kingfishers Produce Eggs in the Wild for the First Time in 40 Years!! | National Aviary

The Nine Birds released last fall (including three that hatched at the Aviary) continue to thrive in their new home on Palmyra Atoll

Read More »

New Andean condor arrives at National Aviary | CBS News

A new Andean condor has arrived at the National Aviary, with the hope that he'll play a role in conserving the species.

Read More »

Your Weekend Guide for Apr. 11-13: From a Bunny Trolley to an Eggstravaganza, spring has sprung in Pittsburgh! | Kidsburgh

Kids at the Aviary's spring-themed Eggstravaganza will participate in a scavenger hunt, story time, and receive prizes to take home, meet a skink and take a photo with the Easter Bunny. 

Read More »

Allegheny County, Pittsburgh library card holders can get free admission to several attractions | WPXI

The Allegheny Regional Asset District is bringing back its RAD Summer Staycation free-admission program for a second year.

Read More »