A building with a rich historic past, the McCormick Bird House
was designed by the zoo's first director, Cyrus DeVry, in 1904. The architectural
integrity of the original building has been preserved, but the interior
has come a long way since the days of 100-plus wire cages. Species Data Sheets: |
Making their home in the deep forest exhibit, Blyth's hornbills have an unusual nesting behavior, distinct from all other birds. Together, the pair chooses a tree cavity, packs the opening with mud and seals the female inside until only her beak sticks out. She will stay stuck in the tree for up to several months, laying eggs and raising her young, while the male passes her food through the tiny opening. These birds are native to south-east Asia.
Seashells, sand and driftwood surround a tranquil shoreline where red knots, snowy plovers, piping plovers and American avocets make their home. Able to fly out of this seashore exhibit, the birds remain inside, drawn by the security of food and ample light. Only a low rail, reminiscent of a pier, separates visitors from birds. Take a close look and watch the red knots dip their food in water before eating it. |
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