The Aviary at Waddesdon Manor

This is a rare example of a working aviary housed in an historical structure, restored to its full beauty and stocked with colourful birds. A must-see on your visit to Waddesdon.

Past & Present
The current Aviary was conceived by Ferdinand de Rothschild and built in 1889, on the site of one which had existed since at least 1883. A black and white photograph of Baron Ferdinand feeding an Ibis Its structure is made of iron, and is painted and gilded in the style of a Rococo trelliswork pavilion - reminiscent of those erected at Versailles and Chantilly in the mid-18th century. Aviaries were often a feature of Rothschild gardens, although this is the only one which still exists today. We know Ferdinand had fond memories of the one at his childhood home, the Villa Grüneburg outside Frankfurt. Whenever he was at Waddesdon he made sure to visit the Aviary - the birds knew him and would come to the fronts of the enclosures to be fed with treats. His sister, Alice also continued this tradition.

Historically housing mainly parrots, today the Aviary is home to an exotic collection of frugivorous and insectivorous birds. Comprising primarily of perching birds, there are also pigeons and doves, pheasants, barbets and turacos to be seen. Around a third of the species kept are of IUCN conservation concern. We are involved in a number of national, European and global captive breeding programs.

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