Ever wondered where injured birds in Switzerland go to recover? Right here at the Volière Zürich. This aviary is more than just a tourist attraction. It is a vital sanctuary for our feathered friends.
The Volière Zürich is located in the Arboretum, near Lake Zurich. It was established in 1902. It is not just an aviary. It also functions as a veterinary hospital for birds. The Vogelpflegestation inside is a unique bird sanatorium.
Imagine this place in 1902. Dedicated individuals began rescuing birds. They provided information to the public. They became a center for native and exotic birds.
Today, the Volière Zürich remains dedicated to bird rescue. It offers free educational programs and protects birds. It strives to improve its bird care. The Volière aims to educate young people about nature and animal welfare.
The Volière Zürich has a reputation beyond Switzerland. Ornithologists and tourists visit to see its exotic birds. The aviary houses around 111 exotic birds. These birds represent about 33 species. Approximately 45000 visitors come each year. They seek information about Switzerland’s rarest birds. These birds live in eight natural indoor enclosures. They also live in three landscape-like outdoor spaces.
The Volière Zürich provides unique services. HelpBird, the busiest bird nursing station in Switzerland, is housed here. It offers free help including ornithology education for schools. It also provides hands-on educational activities and information via phone and mail. The Volière Zürich offers special exhibitions. You can even board your bird here for a fee. Around 300 birds from over 200 owners use this service.
The Vogelpflegestation is Switzerland’s main reception center for sick or injured wild birds. Birds fallen from their nests also come here. The aviary is staffed 365 days a year. Staff care for feathered emergency patients daily. Outside of opening times, you can leave wild birds in special bird boxes at the entrance.
Two employees work to feed and clean the cages. They procure fodder and advise people. They also look for breeding places. The employees start at 6:30 AM to feed the birds. They specially cater to young birds even at sunset. Most birds are young ones fallen from their nests. People call the police or animal rescue service when they find young birds. They bring the birds here. From May to August, the center is very busy. Mallards, House Sparrows, and Blackbirds are common patients. Crows, Swifts and Blue Tits also arrive. In one year, 45% of 1150 wild birds were saved.
The Volière Zürich once faced financial issues. The city of Zürich stopped its support in 2000. Now, it is funded by its donor organization, Voliere-Gesellschaft Zürich.
So next time you see a bird in need remember the Volière Zürich. It is a place of help and hope for our avian neighbors. It stands as a testament to Zurich’s commitment to animal welfare and education. Take a moment to appreciate the work being done here. The Volière Zürich is a true gem within the city.