World Bird Sanctuary
A 300-acre sanctuary dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and educating about threatened birds and other species.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Owl prowls are a highlight
World Bird Sanctuary
Best Time
Owl prowls are a highlight
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 300-acre sanctuary dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and educating about threatened birds and other species.
"Amazing place for beautiful birds that have been rehabilitated but cannot survive in the wild."
🚗 Parking Fee Support
The $12 parking fee directly supports bird care. Consider it a donation!
🦉 Winter Owl Prowls
Don't miss the fun winter owl prowls for a unique experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Bald Eagles
Various enclosures
Witness majestic bald eagles, including ambassadors like Maverick and Murphy, who have inspiring rescue stories.
Harpy Eagle
Enclosure
Marvel at the impressive Harpy Eagle, Alejandro, a stunning example of these powerful birds of prey.
Owl Prowls
Various locations
Experience unique winter owl prowls for a chance to see and learn about these fascinating nocturnal hunters.
Forest Trails
End of main trail
Explore quiet forest trails for a chance to spot local songbirds and enjoy peaceful nature walks.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit: Parking & Donations
Best Times for Bird Sightings
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Fee Support
The $12 parking fee directly supports bird care. Consider it a donation!
🦉 Winter Owl Prowls
Don't miss the fun winter owl prowls for a unique experience.
🦅 Meet the Eagles
See rescued bald eagles like Maverick and Murphy, who have incredible stories. 
🚶♀️ Explore Forest Trails
Enjoy quiet walks on the forest trails for local bird sightings.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Fee Support
The $12 parking fee directly supports bird care. Consider it a donation!
🦉 Winter Owl Prowls
Don't miss the fun winter owl prowls for a unique experience.
🦅 Meet the Eagles
See rescued bald eagles like Maverick and Murphy, who have incredible stories.
🚶♀️ Explore Forest Trails
Enjoy quiet walks on the forest trails for local bird sightings.
💖 Donate to Conservation
The sanctuary runs on donations; give what you can to help wildlife.
👨👩👧👦 Family Fun
Great playground for kids and a wonderful family outing.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the World Bird Sanctuary for its dedication to rescuing and rehabilitating birds, offering spacious enclosures and educational programs. Many highlight the opportunity to see majestic eagles and other raptors up close, as well as the peaceful forest trails and family-friendly amenities. Some visitors noted that the number of birds on display felt a bit limited, and wished for more advertising to raise awareness.
"Nice little park-like area where you can see lots of wild birds. Enclosures are good size and bird are well cared for. There's lots of species around the globe due the confiscation of endangered species as well the species exchange deals with zoos. Enclosured animals are there because they cannot be released to the wild. You will have a mostly clear view of tge birds presented, and can get really close with them in the area. End of the main trail with birds there is a nice quiet forest trail to catch sightings of local tiny bird species or hear their singing.
This place also has public bird releasing shows, they operate mainly on donations. The hospital takes care of wild birds all kind and releases them back to wild if that is possible. Lovely surroundings, they also have picnic area as well good playground for kids. Only admission is the parking fee 12 bucks at the entrance. Gift shop has a vast selection to find a nice memories of your visit."
Zachary Ward
"Amazing place for beautiful birds that have been rehabilitated but cannot survive in the wild. They have spacious enclosures for each bird and a well maintained clean park. The Bald eagles are amazing, the Condor was prehistoric looking and huge, emus were vocal and very attentive, there's even an eagle that has lived in captivity for almost 30 years....his story is kind of sad. There is a nicely paved trail on the down side of the sanctuary. A playground for kids and a gift shop. This park is run off of donations to save our wildlife. Great place to spend an afternoon."
Miriam Simonsen
"All the birds are so cute! Seems a little understaffed, though. Might just be the day I came. Nice souvenirs, a little pricey, but it's worth it. Would recommend for a day with the family."
Odin “Acoreu” Diez
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The World Bird Sanctuary is located in St. Louis, Missouri. While specific public transport details are scarce, driving is the most common method. Visitors report a $12 parking fee at the entrance.
Yes, there is ample parking available. A parking fee of $12 is collected at the entrance to support the sanctuary's operations.
Generally, pets are not allowed in sanctuaries to protect the resident birds. It's best to leave your furry friends at home.
The sanctuary features paved trails, making it largely accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. The playground area is also a plus for families.
Operating hours can vary, and it's recommended to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date information, especially regarding special events like owl prowls.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to the World Bird Sanctuary is free. However, there is a $12 parking fee collected at the entrance, which helps fund their conservation efforts.
The sanctuary relies heavily on donations. You can donate at the entrance, purchase items from the gift shop, or contribute directly through their website.
While not always explicitly advertised, the sanctuary often has staff and volunteers available to share information about the birds. Special events like owl prowls offer guided experiences.
The World Bird Sanctuary welcomes group visits and field trips. It's advisable to contact them in advance to arrange your visit and discuss educational programs.
Wander through the main trails to see the resident birds in their spacious enclosures. The forest trails offer a chance to see local species. Check for scheduled bird releasing shows for dynamic viewing.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can see a variety of birds including eagles, owls, vultures, hawks, and even a Harpy Eagle. Many are rescued and cannot be released back into the wild. +1
Yes, the sanctuary hosts public bird releasing shows and popular winter owl prowls. It's best to check their schedule for specific dates and times.
There's a nice playground for kids, making it a great family destination. The educational aspect of seeing and learning about the birds is also engaging for children.
The enclosures are designed to allow for close viewing, and you can often get quite near to the birds. Some ambassadors are also featured in educational programs.
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended as you'll be exploring trails. Dress for the weather, as much of the experience is outdoors.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The sanctuary has a gift shop that may offer some snacks or drinks. However, it's recommended to bring your own food and utilize the picnic areas for a more extensive meal.
Yes, there are picnic areas available, making it a great spot for a family lunch amidst nature.
The sanctuary is located in a more natural setting, so dining options might be limited nearby. It's advisable to plan for meals before or after your visit, or pack a picnic.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed and encouraged. Capturing the majestic birds and their stories is a popular activity for visitors.
The enclosures offer great opportunities for close-up shots of the birds. Look for well-lit areas and try to capture the birds in natural poses.
While generally permitted, avoid using flash photography directly at the birds, as it can startle them. Respect any posted signage regarding photography rules.
Photography is usually allowed during shows, but be mindful of other attendees and the handlers. Some areas might have specific restrictions.
A telephoto lens can be useful for capturing details of the birds in their enclosures. However, even a smartphone can capture great shots of these magnificent creatures.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider timing your visit for the public bird releasing shows if available, as these are often a highlight for younger visitors. Packing a picnic to enjoy in the designated areas can also make for a more relaxed and budget-friendly family outing. The $12 parking fee is a small price for an afternoon of engaging and educational fun.
💰 Budget Travelers
To maximize savings, pack your own snacks and drinks, and utilize the available picnic areas for lunch. This avoids the need to purchase food on-site, which can add up. The extensive grounds and engaging exhibits provide hours of entertainment without further expense.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Be mindful of lighting conditions and try to photograph birds when they are most active, typically in the mornings and late afternoons. Avoid using flash directly at the birds, as it can disturb them. The sanctuary's natural setting also provides beautiful backdrops for your shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Rescue and Rehabilitation Mission
This commitment to conservation means that every visit contributes to their ongoing efforts to protect avian populations.Birds that cannot be released back into their natural habitats find a permanent home at the sanctuary. This includes individuals with permanent injuries, such as blindness in one eye, or those who have become too accustomed to human interaction. The sanctuary provides them with spacious and enriching enclosures that mimic their natural environments as much as possible, ensuring their well-being.
Beyond direct care, the sanctuary is involved in species exchange programs with zoos and confiscation of endangered species. This collaborative effort helps maintain genetic diversity and supports broader conservation goals. By visiting, you're not just observing birds; you're supporting a crucial mission to protect and preserve avian life for future generations.
Meet the Avian Ambassadors
+2Among the most beloved ambassadors are the bald eagles. Murphy, for instance, gained fame for his paternal instincts, even attempting to hatch a rock, and has since successfully adopted foster eaglets, showcasing his nurturing side.
+1 Maverick, another bald eagle, overcame severe injuries to become an ambassador, demonstrating resilience and the sanctuary's dedication to animal care. These stories highlight the individual lives and challenges faced by these birds, making the experience deeply personal and impactful.Beyond eagles, you might encounter owls like Winona, who has completed her seasonal molt, or the striking Alejandro, a Harpy Eagle.
The sanctuary also features other species like hooded vultures, whose playful antics have been captured on video. Each bird offers a unique opportunity to learn about its species, its role in the ecosystem, and the conservation efforts in place to protect it. Interacting with these ambassadors, whether through observation or scheduled programs, provides an unforgettable connection to the natural world.Exploring the Sanctuary Grounds
Beyond the primary bird exhibits, the sanctuary features quiet forest trails that branch off from the main paths. These trails are perfect for a more serene nature walk, offering opportunities to spot local songbirds and enjoy the sounds of nature. It's a peaceful contrast to the more focused viewing of the resident raptors and provides a chance to experience the local flora and fauna.
For families, the sanctuary includes a playground area, ensuring that younger visitors have space to play and burn off energy. Additionally, there are picnic areas available, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely afternoon outing. The combination of educational exhibits, natural trails, and family-friendly amenities makes the World Bird Sanctuary a well-rounded destination for a day trip.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit