Build-a-Bird

Program Overview

The Build-a-Bird program at Tracy Aviary aims to inspire wonder and appreciation for the avian world by introducing visitors and other groups to some of the unique and amazing adaptations of birds. It combines interaction with live “bird ambassadors” at the beginning and the end of the program with an interactive look at the many unique physical adaptations that birds have that may or may not be visible to our eyes. One participant is dressed up as a bird, one adaptation at a time. As the “bird’s” adaptations, such as wings, beak, crop, gizzards, feathers, specialized feet, air sacs, and hollow bones are added one by one, participants discuss why each attribute is important for birds. Finally, the brand new bird is given a nest and eggs and visitors learn about egg-laying and its importance as an adaptation. Once the volunteer has been completely transformed, she or he is “de-costumed,” one adaptation at a time, with an interactive Q&A recap about each adaptation and its purpose. Once visitors have gotten a chance to learn about the adaptations that make birds so amazing, a visit with a second live bird ambassador wraps up the experience.

Program at a Glance

• Date of Program: presented frequently upon request, both at the Aviary and off-site
• Target age group: all ages; dialogue is adapted to fit each particular audience
• Number of attendees: groups up to 100
• Cost to attendees: $1 per person at the Aviary; off-site presentations for larger groups cost between $95 and $140
• One time program, repeated, or hope to repeat: repeated frequently
• Material costs: less than $50 for the one time creation of handmade “bird costume” props
• Non-material costs: on-site: on-site: 2 staff members for one hour; off-site: 2 staff members for two hours
• Number of Facilitators required: two

Tangible Takeaways

Help your visitors experience what makes your institution unique. Getting up close and personal with the live bird ambassadors gives visitors an experience that they can’t get just anywhere; it helps them connect to the Aviary and to its mission in a very concrete way. Let your visitors get to know what makes your institution so special and exciting!

Participation is fun! Visitors love to get in on the action. Hands-on programs help them to feel involved and excited about what they’re learning. Learning becomes a collaborative process and sometimes even an adventure.

www.tracyaviary.org/school-and-community-outreach/