How to Bird Feed at Oregon Zoo Aviaries Portland

Visiting the Oregon Zoo in Portland is more than a casual outing—it’s an immersive experience into the lives of animals from around the world. Among its most captivating exhibits are the aviaries, where vibrant bird species glide, perch, and forage in carefully recreated natural habitats. For many visitors, the opportunity to feed birds in these controlled environments offers a rare, intimate connection with wildlife. However, bird feeding at the Oregon Zoo is not as simple as tossing bread or seeds over the fence. It is a structured, educational, and conservation-driven activity designed to support avian health, promote responsible interaction, and deepen public understanding of bird behavior and ecology.

This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step walkthrough of how to bird feed at the Oregon Zoo’s aviaries. Whether you’re a first-time visitor, a seasoned bird enthusiast, or a parent looking to engage children in nature, this tutorial ensures you participate safely, ethically, and meaningfully. By following these protocols, you contribute to the zoo’s mission of wildlife preservation while gaining a deeper appreciation for the delicate balance between humans and birds.

Step-by-Step Guide

Feeding birds at the Oregon Zoo is a regulated experience. Unlike feeding ducks in a city park, the aviaries are home to sensitive and often endangered species. The zoo’s animal care team has developed precise procedures to ensure both visitor safety and bird well-being. Follow these seven steps carefully to ensure a successful and responsible feeding experience.

1. Plan Your Visit Around Scheduled Feeding Times

The Oregon Zoo does not allow unsupervised bird feeding. All feeding interactions occur during designated times, typically between 10:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m., depending on the season and species. These times are posted daily on digital kiosks near the aviaries and are also available on the zoo’s official mobile app. Feeding schedules vary by exhibit—some birds feed once daily, while others, such as the colorful toucans in the Tropical Rainforest Aviary, may have two scheduled sessions.

Arrive at least 15 minutes before the scheduled feeding time. This allows you to observe the birds’ behavior, locate the designated feeding station, and ask questions of the zookeepers on duty. Feeding sessions are often accompanied by brief educational talks, making early arrival essential for full participation.

2. Purchase Approved Bird Food from the Zoo

Bringing your own food is strictly prohibited. The zoo provides specially formulated bird feed that meets the nutritional needs of each species. These feeds are developed in collaboration with avian veterinarians and nutritionists to avoid health risks such as obesity, vitamin deficiencies, or toxic reactions.

Approved bird food is available for purchase at the gift shops located near the Bird Aviary entrance and at the Tropical Rainforest Pavilion. Prices range from $3 to $7 per small cup, depending on the exhibit. The food is typically a mix of fruits, insects, nectar, or specialized pellets, clearly labeled for each bird type. For example:

• Toucans: A blend of papaya, apple, and high-protein insect pellets
• Flamingos: Carotenoid-enriched pellets to maintain plumage color
• Parrots: Seed and nut mix with added calcium and vitamins
• Waterfowl (in the Wetlands Aviary): Floating aquatic plant pellets

Never attempt to substitute with bread, crackers, or leftover human food. These items can cause serious health problems in birds, including angel wing syndrome in waterfowl and fungal infections in granivorous species.

3. Observe the Zookeeper’s Instructions

Each feeding session begins with a brief orientation from a trained zookeeper. They will demonstrate the correct technique for offering food, explain which birds are safe to approach, and identify any species that should be observed from a distance. Pay close attention to verbal cues and hand signals.

Zookeepers often use specific tools—such as long-handled tongs, shallow trays, or nectar dispensers—to distribute food. Visitors are usually permitted to use the same tools under supervision. For example, in the Parrot Aviary, you may be given a small wooden spoon to gently place fruit pieces on a feeding platform. In the Wetlands Aviary, you might be asked to float pellets on the water’s surface using a netted scoop.

Never reach into enclosures, attempt to grab birds, or lean over barriers. Even seemingly docile birds can react defensively, and many species have sharp beaks or claws capable of causing injury.

4. Wait for Birds to Approach Calmly

Once food is placed, patience is key. Birds are wild animals, even in captivity, and they respond to calm, quiet behavior. Sudden movements, loud noises, or rapid gestures can trigger stress responses or cause them to retreat to higher perches.

Stand still, keep your hands low and open, and avoid direct eye contact—this is perceived as non-threatening in avian communication. Many birds, especially parrots and toucans, will investigate the food out of curiosity. Some may hop closer slowly; others may wait until the crowd thins. Respect their pace.

Children should be closely supervised and taught to remain still. Encourage them to whisper or use hand signals to express excitement. This not only reduces stress on the birds but also turns the experience into a lesson in mindfulness and animal empathy.

5. Feed Only What Is Provided and Only Once

Each visitor is typically permitted to feed one small portion per session. This limit prevents overfeeding and ensures all visitors have an opportunity to participate. Refilling your portion is not allowed during the same session.

Do not attempt to hand-feed birds unless explicitly instructed. Even if a bird lands near your hand, do not offer food directly from your fingers. The zoo’s protocol requires food to be placed on designated surfaces to avoid habituation to human hands, which can lead to dependency, aggression, or loss of natural foraging instincts.

After placing the food, step back and observe. This is often the most rewarding part of the experience. Watch how different species interact—some may feed cooperatively, while others establish pecking orders. Notice the speed of consumption, the way birds manipulate food with their beaks, and how they react to each other.

6. Clean Up After Yourself

After the feeding session ends, any leftover food or debris must be left for zoo staff to collect. Do not attempt to pick up spilled pellets or fruit scraps. These are intentionally left to encourage natural cleaning behaviors among the birds and to maintain ecological balance within the exhibit.

However, if you dropped your container, wrapper, or personal item, notify a zookeeper immediately. They will retrieve it safely to avoid contamination or entanglement risks for the birds.

7. Document and Reflect

Photography is encouraged, but flash is prohibited. Use natural light and zoom lenses to capture birds in motion. Avoid using audio recordings or loud devices that may disrupt the aviary’s quiet environment.

After your visit, take a moment to reflect on what you observed. Which bird showed the most curiosity? Did you notice any differences in feeding behavior between species? Consider journaling your experience or sharing it with others to promote awareness of avian conservation. The Oregon Zoo offers free downloadable bird ID sheets and feeding observation guides at the exit of the aviary exhibits.

Best Practices

Feeding birds at the Oregon Zoo is not just about the act of offering food—it’s about cultivating a mindset of respect, awareness, and stewardship. Below are essential best practices to ensure your experience is safe, ethical, and impactful.

Respect Species-Specific Needs

Each bird species has evolved unique dietary and behavioral adaptations. For example, flamingos filter-feed in shallow water using specialized beaks, while toucans rely on large beaks to pluck fruit from branches. Feeding them inappropriate food—such as meat for herbivorous species or dry seeds for nectar-feeders—can cause long-term health damage.

Always confirm the species you’re interacting with. The zoo provides laminated signage near each exhibit with dietary profiles and behavioral notes. Take a moment to read them before feeding.

Minimize Human-Bird Dependency

One of the most critical goals of the zoo’s feeding program is to prevent birds from becoming reliant on humans for food. Wild birds must retain their ability to forage, hunt, and navigate their environments—even in captivity. Overfeeding or encouraging hand-feeding can disrupt this natural balance.

Follow the “one feed, one visit” rule. If you return on another day, wait until the next scheduled session. Do not linger near feeding stations between times hoping for scraps.

Protect Bird Health and Hygiene

Birds are highly susceptible to bacterial and fungal infections. Human skin oils, lotions, or hand sanitizers can transfer harmful microbes to feathers and beaks. Always wash your hands thoroughly before and after visiting the aviaries—even if you don’t touch the food. Hand sanitizer stations are available at all exhibit entrances.

Never feed birds if you are ill. Respiratory illnesses in humans can be transmitted to birds through aerosols, and avian influenza can be deadly to captive populations.

Supervise Children and Pets

Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult during all feeding activities. Pets are not permitted in the aviary areas. Even leashed dogs can trigger fear responses in birds, leading to stress-induced illness or injury.

Teach children to treat birds as living beings, not entertainment. Encourage quiet observation, gentle questions, and empathy. The zoo offers free “Junior Bird Watcher” activity sheets at the entrance to help young visitors engage thoughtfully.

Support Conservation Through Participation

Every dollar spent on zoo-approved bird food contributes directly to the Oregon Zoo’s Avian Conservation Fund. This fund supports breeding programs for endangered species such as the Bali Starling and the Philippine Eagle, as well as habitat restoration projects in the wild.

When you feed birds here, you’re not just giving them a snack—you’re helping preserve their species for future generations. Consider making an additional donation at the gift shop or signing up for the zoo’s conservation newsletter to stay informed about global bird protection efforts.

Be Mindful of Crowds and Queue Etiquette

Popular feeding times, especially on weekends and holidays, can draw large crowds. Be patient. Wait your turn. Do not cut lines or try to monopolize a feeding station. Zoo staff monitor queues and will guide visitors to alternate stations if needed.

If you’re visiting during peak hours, consider arriving early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Fewer crowds mean less stress for the birds and a more meaningful experience for you.

Tools and Resources

Maximizing your bird-feeding experience at the Oregon Zoo requires more than just showing up—it requires preparation. Below is a curated list of tools and resources to enhance your visit, deepen your understanding, and extend your learning beyond the aviaries.

Official Oregon Zoo Mobile App

Download the free Oregon Zoo app from the App Store or Google Play. It features real-time feeding schedules, interactive maps, species profiles, and audio guides narrated by zookeepers. The app also sends push notifications when feeding times are about to begin, so you won’t miss your opportunity.

Aviary Feeding Guides (Print and Digital)

At the entrance of each aviary, you’ll find free, laminated feeding guides that include:

• Photos and names of resident bird species
• What they eat in the wild vs. in captivity
• Behavioral cues to watch for during feeding
• Conservation status and threats in the wild

Digital versions are available on the zoo’s website under “Educational Resources > Bird Feeding.” These guides are ideal for educators, parents, and students.

Binoculars and Field Guides

While not required, bringing a pair of binoculars enhances your ability to observe fine details: feather patterns, beak structure, and social interactions. The zoo sells compact, high-quality binoculars at the gift shop for $25, or you can bring your own.

Recommended field guides for beginners:

• Birds of the Pacific Northwest by Thomas S. Roberts
• The Sibley Guide to Birds by David Allen Sibley
• National Geographic Field Guide to the Birds of North America

These guides help you identify birds you see at the zoo and recognize similar species in the wild.

Online Learning Platforms

Expand your knowledge with free online resources:

• Cornell Lab of Ornithology – All About Birds (allaboutbirds.org): Detailed species accounts, sound recordings, and behavior videos
• Audubon Society – Bird Academy (audubon.org/bird-academy): Free courses on bird identification, migration, and conservation
• Oregon Zoo Conservation Blog (oregonzoo.org/conservation): Updates on breeding successes and field research

Zookeeper-Led Workshops

Monthly, the Oregon Zoo hosts “Behind the Scenes: Avian Care” workshops for visitors aged 12 and up. These 90-minute sessions include a guided tour of the bird kitchen, a Q&A with avian nutritionists, and a chance to assist in preparing food for non-public exhibits. Registration is required and fills quickly—sign up through the zoo’s events calendar.

Conservation Donation Options

While not mandatory, supporting the zoo’s bird conservation initiatives amplifies your impact. You can donate directly at the gift shop, via the website, or by selecting “Adopt a Bird” programs. Options include:

• Adopt a Flamingo: $50/year—receive a certificate, photo, and monthly update
• Adopt a Parrot: $75/year—includes a custom illustrated card and feeding video
• Adopt a Species: $150/year—supports entire breeding programs for endangered birds

These programs fund veterinary care, habitat enrichment, and international reintroduction projects.

Real Examples

To illustrate the impact of proper bird feeding at the Oregon Zoo, here are three real-life examples of visitors who transformed their experience through adherence to protocol—and how it led to deeper engagement with conservation.

Example 1: The Curious 8-Year-Old and the Toucan

During a family visit in June, 8-year-old Mia waited patiently during the toucan feeding session. Her father had read the feeding guide beforehand and explained that toucans eat fruit and insects. When the zookeeper handed Mia a wooden spoon with papaya cubes, she stood still, eyes wide. One toucan, named Koa, approached slowly, then gently plucked the fruit with its beak. Mia didn’t clap or shout—she whispered, “He’s so gentle.”

That evening, Mia drew a picture of Koa and wrote a short story about how toucans help spread seeds in the rainforest. Her teacher later used her story in a class project on rainforest ecosystems. Mia’s quiet observation, guided by the zoo’s rules, sparked a lifelong interest in ornithology.

Example 2: The Photographer Who Learned Patience

Amateur photographer James visited the aviaries hoping to capture a shot of a rare Bali Starling. He arrived early, set up his tripod, and waited. When the feeding began, he nearly snapped a photo the moment food was placed—but remembered the “no flash” rule and waited. Instead of rushing, he watched how the starlings circled before landing. He captured a sequence of three images: the bird hovering, the beak reaching, and the moment of contact.

James later shared his photos on a local birding forum. A conservation biologist recognized the starling’s unique leg band and contacted the zoo. The bird was part of a breeding program with a goal of reintroduction in Indonesia. James’s images were used in a public awareness campaign, helping raise funds for the project.

Example 3: The Teacher Who Turned a Field Trip into a Lesson

Ms. Rivera, a 5th-grade teacher from Beaverton, brought her class to the Oregon Zoo for a science unit on animal adaptations. Before the trip, she reviewed the feeding guide with her students and assigned each child a bird to observe. After feeding, students recorded observations in journals: “The flamingo’s beak is upside down!” “The parrot used its tongue to push the seed.”

Back in class, they created a poster comparing wild vs. captive diets. Their project won first place in the district’s Environmental Science Fair. Ms. Rivera now brings a new class each year and uses the zoo’s feeding program as a cornerstone of her curriculum.

These examples demonstrate that when visitors follow the rules, the experience becomes more than entertainment—it becomes education, inspiration, and action.

FAQs

Can I bring my own bird food to feed the birds at Oregon Zoo?

No. Bringing outside food is strictly prohibited. Zoo-approved feed is specially formulated to meet the nutritional needs of each species. Human food like bread, crackers, or seeds can cause serious health issues, including digestive blockages, vitamin imbalances, and even death.

Are there any birds I should avoid feeding?

All feeding is supervised and limited to designated species. However, some birds—such as raptors, large waterfowl, or those in quarantine—are not part of public feeding programs. Signs at each exhibit clearly indicate which birds can be fed. Always follow zookeeper instructions.

Is feeding birds at the zoo harmful to them?

When done correctly, feeding at the Oregon Zoo is not harmful—it’s beneficial. The zoo’s program is designed to supplement natural diets, stimulate foraging behavior, and provide enrichment. It is closely monitored by veterinarians and animal behaviorists. Improper feeding (e.g., using outside food or hand-feeding) is harmful, but the zoo’s protocols prevent this.

How often can I feed the birds during one visit?

You may participate in one feeding session per exhibit per visit. If you return on another day, you may participate again during scheduled times. Repeated feeding in a single day is not permitted to avoid overstimulation or overfeeding.

Can children feed the birds?

Yes, children are encouraged to participate under adult supervision. Zookeepers often provide child-sized tools and simplified instructions. Children under 5 must remain within arm’s reach of a guardian at all times.

Do I need to pay extra to feed the birds?

There is no additional admission fee, but you must purchase the approved bird food, which costs between $3 and $7 per portion. This fee supports the zoo’s conservation programs.

What if a bird lands on me?

If a bird approaches or lands on you, remain calm and still. Do not move suddenly or try to shoo it away. Slowly raise your hands to your sides and wait for a zookeeper to assist. Birds landing on visitors is rare but can occur. The zoo’s staff are trained to handle such situations safely.

Can I take photos during feeding?

Yes, photography is encouraged, but flash is strictly prohibited. Use natural light and avoid loud camera shutters. Tripods are allowed but must not block walkways or interfere with other visitors.

What happens if I break the rules?

Violating feeding rules—such as using outside food, reaching into enclosures, or feeding outside designated times—may result in immediate removal from the aviary area and a warning. Repeated violations may lead to loss of zoo privileges. These rules exist to protect the birds.

Are the birds trained to be fed by people?

They are not “trained” in the traditional sense. The birds respond to routine and food cues, but the zoo intentionally avoids conditioning them to associate humans with food outside of supervised sessions. This preserves their natural instincts.

Conclusion

Feeding birds at the Oregon Zoo Aviaries is not merely a fun activity—it is a meaningful act of conservation, education, and connection. By following the structured protocols outlined in this guide, you transform a simple visit into a profound encounter with nature. You learn to observe quietly, respect boundaries, and appreciate the intricate lives of birds that often go unnoticed in the wild.

The Oregon Zoo’s aviaries are more than exhibits—they are living classrooms. Each spoonful of approved food, each patient wait, each quiet observation contributes to the survival of endangered species and the cultivation of a more compassionate public. Your role as a visitor is not passive; it is vital.

As you leave the aviaries, carry this lesson beyond the zoo gates: wildlife thrives not when we interfere, but when we learn to coexist with intention. Whether you feed a toucan in Portland or watch a sparrow in your backyard, the principles remain the same—observe, respect, protect.

Plan your next visit. Bring curiosity. Leave only footprints—and perhaps, a changed perspective.