The Leeds Castle aviary, located in Kent, England, was once a thriving bird sanctuary that housed around 100 species of birds, including parakeets, cockatoos, and specialized in the beautiful pastel-colored Australian Parakeets. However, the aviary closed to the public in October 2012 due to economic reasons.
Species of Birds at the Leeds Castle Aviary
The Leeds Castle aviary was home to a diverse range of bird species, many of which were part of European Endangered species Programs (EEPs). Some of the notable birds that were housed in the aviary include:
- Parakeets
- Cockatoos
- Australian Parakeets (specialized in pastel-colored varieties)
- Von der Decken Hornbill
- Fischers Touraco
- Crowned Hornbill
The aviary played a crucial role in the conservation and breeding of these species, contributing to the preservation of endangered bird populations.
Current Status of the Leeds Castle Aviary
Unfortunately, the Leeds Castle aviary is no longer open to the public. The closure in October 2012 was due to economic reasons, and the castle has since shifted its focus to other bird-related experiences.
Despite the closure of the aviary, the Leeds Castle still offers visitors the opportunity to engage with birds in various ways:
Bird of Prey Centre
The Bird of Prey Centre at Leeds Castle houses a variety of birds, including the European Eagle Owl, Harris Hawk, and Russian Steppe Eagle. Visitors can enjoy Falconry Displays and Meet the Birds sessions, where they can learn about and interact with these impressive birds of prey.
Bird of Prey Experience
The Bird of Prey Experience at Leeds Castle allows visitors to fly a range of birds of prey across the estate. This experience includes a behind-the-scenes tour and a day ticket to the castle and grounds. The cost of the experience varies from £30.00 to £150.00, depending on the duration and inclusions.
Falconry Displays
The Falconry Displays at Leeds Castle take place in the Falconry Arena and feature a range of birds. These displays are available daily from April to September and on weekends and school holidays from October to March. Visitors can also participate in the Meet the Birds sessions during these times.
The Experienced Falconry Team
The Bird of Prey Centre at Leeds Castle is managed by a team of experienced falconers, including Mark Brattle, Hannah James, and Sam Weir. These professionals are dedicated to providing visitors with an engaging and educational experience while ensuring the well-being of the birds in their care.
Conclusion
While the Leeds Castle aviary is no longer open to the public, the castle continues to offer bird-related experiences that allow visitors to appreciate and learn about these fascinating creatures. The Bird of Prey Centre, Falconry Displays, and Bird of Prey Experience provide opportunities for visitors to engage with a variety of birds, including birds of prey, and gain a deeper understanding of their importance in the natural world.
References
- https://www.zoochat.com/community/threads/leeds-castle-aviary-to-close.240768/
- https://leeds-castle.com/product/bird-of-prey-experience/
- https://leeds-castle.com/attraction/falconry-displays/
- https://leeds-castle.com/attraction/bird-of-prey-centre/
- https://aboutzoos.info/zoos/zoo-database/europe-zoo-database/101-leeds-castle-aviary.