For the Birds! Montana’s Awesome New Avian Walkway Now Open

Can a bird look happy? Probably not. But the raptors that recently moved into their new homes certainly look unruffled.

AVIAN WALKWAY AT MONTANA WILD

So says Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks, who describes their new enclosures as similar to an efficiency apartment, with an indoor space and an outdoor space. Visitors can walk by and gawk, while the raptors either mind their own business or look curious at the company.

“They have freedom of choice,” said Ali Pons, the Montana WILD wildlife center program manager. “It’s cool seeing them problem solving – figuring out what they want to do.”

NEW SURROUNDINGS, NEW ATTITUDES

Before the new facility was completed, the birds were either in small enclosures inside another building or in areas where they didn’t have as good of a view of the natural environment. The walkway provides daily enrichment opportunities for the birds with exposure to sunlight, wind and natural sights and sounds – as well as the chatter of visitors.

READ MORE: Joint Custody? The Unique Lifestyle of Montana 'Prairie Ghosts'

AMBASSADOR BIRDS

Ali Pons pointed out that public interaction is new to them, and they show the same curiosity and surprise as the people who visit them.

The residents at the Avian Walkway include eagles, hawks, falcons and owls. These raptors are FWP’s "Ambassador Birds", birds that have permanent injuries and can’t be rehabilitated. Visitors learn about conservation and the important ecological role of birds of prey, including pest and disease control.

In addition to the 3,600-square-foot walkway, the recent project at Montana WILD features a 1,160 square foot flight barn to support FWP’s bird rehabilitation and release efforts. The buildings were funded by donations from individuals and businesses, the Montana Tourism Development grant program and the Nongame Wildlife Account and through support from the Outdoor Legacy Foundation.

Bird watching in Montana

WANT TO SPREAD YOUR WINGS AND FLY OVER?

The Avian Walkway is located at Montana WILD, 2668 Broadwater Avenue, Helena, and is free and open to the public from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily. The adjacent Education Center is open weekdays from 8 a.m.to 5 p.m.