ANIMAL HOUSE SHOWCASE: Bird Kingdom Niagara helping preserve species

For more than 20 years, Bird Kingdom has been giving visitors the chance to step into a tropical world filled with free-flying birds, exotic animals and hands-on experiences just steps away from the falls.

Senior Animal Care Supervisor and Trainer Alex Farrow says the attraction, which opened in 2003 inside the former Niagara Falls Museum building, is home to more than 100 species of birds, mammals, reptiles and amphibians. While birds remain the main focus, Farrow says Bird Kingdom offers something for everyone through experiences like lorikeet feedings, parrot encounters and interactive aviary tours led by animal trainers.

Farrow says education and conservation are also major priorities for the facility. Many of the parrots living at Bird Kingdom were previously kept as pets before being donated to the attraction, helping staff educate visitors about the challenges of the exotic pet trade and the importance of protecting vulnerable species in the wild. She says the team regularly speaks with guests about biodiversity, conservation and the importance of sharing the planet responsibly with wildlife.

Located just a short walk from Clifton Hill, Bird Kingdom welcomes guests year-round and features natural tropical plants, a large indoor waterfall and close-up encounters with species from around the world. Farrow says the goal is to create a relaxing and engaging experience where visitors can connect with animals while learning more about them in a natural setting.