World Migratory Bird Day

Side view of a yellow-breasted chat

It’s a migration celebration! Join the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute on Saturday, May 9, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. for a special World Migratory Bird Day experience.

This one-day-only event takes place in and around the Bird House and features:

  • Bird-themed games and activities for kids
  • Bird Friendly® coffee tastings by Chesapeake Coffee Roasters
  • Guided bird walks focused on wild, free-flying birds
  • Keeper demos in the Bird House aviaries:
    • Delaware Bay: 10:30 a.m. - 11 a.m.
    • Prairie Pothole: 11 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
    • Bird Friendly Coffee Farm: 12:30 p.m. - 1 p.m.
  • Interactive learning stations hosted by National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute (NZCBI) staff and partner organizations:
    • City Wildlife
    • DC Bird Alliance
    • Smithsonian Migratory Bird Center
    • NZCBI Animal Care Sciences
    • NZCBI Little Critters: Nature Play
    • NZCBI Nutrition
    • NZCBI Wildlife Health Sciences

This event has something for everyone, so bring the whole flock!

For more information on the Smithsonian’s bird conservation initiatives, visit the Smithsonian Migratory Bird Center web page.

Know Before You Go

From the Zoo's main entrance on Connecticut Avenue, head downhill along the main pathway. Turn right to enter Asia Trail. Continue along the pathway to reach the outdoor giant panda overlook. Cross the bridge over the Elephant Trails habitat to reach the Bird House plaza, then follow the path to the Bird House entrance.

For a downloadable map of the Zoo, check out our Map and Guides page.

  • There is no special ticket to this event. Just come to the Bird House!
  • All guests, including children under 2 years old, must have an Entry Pass to enter the Zoo. Entry Passes are free and can be booked on the Zoo's website.
  • To help our staff scan Entry Passes efficiently, all members of your party should plan on entering the Zoo together.
  • Please have your Entry Pass QR codes ready to scan when entering the Zoo.
  • Members can walk through the Zoo’s pedestrian entrances without reserving Entry Passes. Simply present your ID along with your membership card on your phone or provide a copy printed from home.
  • Daily parking is not included with Zoo admission. If you plan to drive and park at the Zoo, you can pay a flat-rate parking fee of $30 per vehicle in advance/$40 day-of. Due to the popularity of the Zoo in early May, we recommend you purchase your Parking Pass online before your visit.
  • Drivers should plan to enter through the main vehicle entrance at 3001 Connecticut Ave, NW.
  • Member parking benefits may be used for this event. Member Parking Passes must be reserved in advance online; they cannot be redeemed on-site. Become a Member today!
  • All Parking Pass purchases are non-refundable, and exchanges are subject to availability.

Visit our Accessibility page for information on how we provide inclusive experiences for all audiences. Please ask for assistance at the Visitor's Center or the Information Station near Lion/Tiger Hill after entering the Zoo. 

  • Wheelchairs, electronic convenience vehicles (or "scooters"), strollers, and wagons are available to rent at both locations.
  • A photo ID or driver's license from the U.S. or other country of origin is required for all rentals. Passports are not accepted for security and safety concerns. Operators must be 18 years or older.