How to Bird Feed at the Tulsa Zoo Aviaries

The Tulsa Zoo Aviaries offer a rare and immersive opportunity to observe exotic and native bird species in carefully curated, naturalistic habitats. For visitors seeking a deeper connection with avian life, bird feeding is one of the most rewarding and educational experiences available. Unlike casual feeding at backyard feeders, bird feeding at the Tulsa Zoo Aviaries is a structured, conservation-focused activity designed to support animal welfare, promote behavioral enrichment, and foster public awareness of avian ecology. Understanding how to properly engage in this activity ensures the safety of the birds, enhances your experience, and aligns with the zoo’s mission of wildlife stewardship. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step approach to bird feeding at the Tulsa Zoo Aviaries, equipping you with the knowledge to participate responsibly and meaningfully.

Step-by-Step Guide

Participating in bird feeding at the Tulsa Zoo Aviaries is not merely about offering food—it is a carefully orchestrated interaction grounded in science, ethics, and observation. Follow these seven steps to ensure a safe, respectful, and memorable experience.

Step 1: Plan Your Visit Around Feeding Times

The Tulsa Zoo schedules bird feeding sessions at specific times to minimize stress on the animals and maximize educational value. These sessions are typically held twice daily—once in the morning (between 10:00 AM and 11:00 AM) and again in the late afternoon (between 3:00 PM and 4:00 PM). Feeding times vary slightly by season and weather, so always check the daily schedule posted at the zoo entrance, on the official Tulsa Zoo website, or via the zoo’s mobile app. Arriving 10–15 minutes early allows you to find a good viewing position, read signage, and observe bird behavior before the session begins.

Step 2: Obtain Approved Feeding Materials

Only zoo-provided food should ever be used during feeding sessions. Bringing outside food—such as bread, crackers, seeds from home, or fruit—is strictly prohibited. These items can be harmful to birds, causing nutritional imbalances, digestive issues, or even toxicity. The zoo supplies specially formulated pellets, mealworms, fruit chunks, and nectar solutions tailored to the dietary needs of each species in the aviaries. These materials are available at designated kiosks near the Aviaries entrance, usually staffed by zoo educators. Accept payment via cash or card, and request only the amount needed for one session. Never take more than instructed.

Step 3: Review Species-Specific Guidelines

Each aviary houses different bird species with unique feeding behaviors. For example, toucans prefer soft fruits and use their large beaks to pluck food gently, while hornbills may require food placed on elevated platforms. Hummingbirds, when present, feed from nectar dispensers and require stillness and patience. Before approaching any enclosure, read the informational plaques at each station. These signs detail preferred food types, feeding distances, and behavioral cues to watch for. If unsure, ask a zoo educator—they are trained to guide visitors safely and will often demonstrate the correct technique.

Step 4: Approach Calmly and Maintain Distance

Birds are sensitive to sudden movements, loud noises, and direct eye contact. Walk slowly and deliberately toward the designated feeding area. Avoid running, waving arms, or making high-pitched sounds. Maintain a minimum distance of 3–5 feet unless instructed otherwise by staff. Many birds, especially parrots and songbirds, will approach you if they sense calmness. Do not reach into enclosures or attempt to touch birds. Use the feeding tools provided—long-handled tongs, small trays, or nectar dispensers—to present food. This ensures both your safety and the birds’ comfort.

Step 5: Present Food Slowly and Observe

When feeding, place the food gently on the provided platform, in the feeder, or on the ground—depending on the species’ natural foraging habits. For ground-feeding birds like quail or pheasants, place food in small clusters to mimic natural patchy foraging. For arboreal species like toucans or parrots, hold the food slightly below eye level and wait. Allow the bird to come to you. Watch for signs of interest: head tilting, vocalizations, or forward movement. If a bird hesitates, do not force it. Patience is key. Observe how the bird uses its beak, feet, and body to manipulate food. This is where the educational value of the experience truly unfolds.

Step 6: Limit Interaction Time and Avoid Overfeeding

Each visitor is typically allowed to feed for 3–5 minutes per session. This limitation ensures that no single bird is overwhelmed by human interaction and that all visitors have equal opportunity. Do not attempt to feed multiple times in one visit. Overfeeding can disrupt natural foraging behaviors and lead to dependency. The zoo’s feeding schedule is designed to supplement—not replace—natural diets. If a bird shows disinterest, move on. There is no need to persist. The goal is observation, not coercion.

Step 7: Clean Up and Respect Boundaries

After feeding, dispose of any packaging or tools in designated bins. Never leave food remnants on the ground or in the water features. The zoo’s cleaning crew relies on visitor cooperation to maintain hygiene standards. Do not linger near enclosures after your session. Allow other visitors space and avoid blocking viewing paths. If you notice a bird behaving abnormally—such as lethargy, fluffed feathers, or refusal to eat—notify a zoo staff member immediately. Your vigilance contributes to the birds’ ongoing care.

Best Practices

Successful bird feeding at the Tulsa Zoo Aviaries is not just about following rules—it’s about cultivating a mindset of respect, curiosity, and environmental responsibility. These best practices ensure that your experience is not only enjoyable but also ethically sound and scientifically valuable.

Practice Silent Observation

One of the most powerful tools in bird watching is silence. Talking loudly, using phones, or playing music disrupts natural bird communication. Birds rely on subtle vocalizations to coordinate feeding, warn of predators, and bond with mates. Keep conversations hushed and turn off notifications. Let the sounds of the aviaries—the rustle of wings, the chirp of a finch, the soft call of a hornbill—become your soundtrack. This deepens your connection to the natural world and allows you to witness authentic behaviors.

Use the Five Senses

Feeding is not just a visual experience. Pay attention to the texture of the food, the way sunlight glints off a hummingbird’s throat feathers, the scent of ripe fruit in the air, the gentle breeze stirring the foliage, and even the quiet hum of the aviary’s misting system. Engaging all five senses transforms a simple feeding activity into a multisensory immersion in avian ecology.

Document Responsibly

Photography and videography are encouraged, but only with discretion. Avoid using flash, which can startle birds. Do not crowd enclosures to get the perfect shot. Use zoom lenses to capture detail without intrusion. If you are filming, keep your movements slow and steady. Remember: the birds’ well-being comes before content creation. Share your photos and videos with educational captions—such as “Toucan feeding on papaya at Tulsa Zoo Aviaries, June 2024”—to promote awareness and appreciation.

Teach Children Mindfully

If you’re visiting with children, use this opportunity to instill lifelong respect for wildlife. Explain why we don’t touch birds, why we use only zoo food, and why silence matters. Let them hold the feeding tool under supervision, but never force participation. If a child becomes overexcited, gently redirect them to observation. The goal is not to make them “feed a bird,” but to help them understand that birds are wild creatures deserving of space and dignity.

Support Conservation Through Engagement

Bird feeding at the Tulsa Zoo is part of a broader conservation initiative. Many species in the aviaries are part of Species Survival Plans (SSPs) coordinated by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). By participating responsibly, you contribute to public education and funding for global bird conservation. Consider making a donation to the zoo’s Avian Conservation Fund or signing up for their monthly newsletter to stay informed about breeding programs, habitat restoration projects, and volunteer opportunities.

Recognize Behavioral Cues

Learn to interpret bird body language. A raised crest may indicate curiosity or alertness; a lowered head and closed eyes may signal relaxation. Rapid head bobbing in parrots often precedes feeding. Fluffed feathers can mean cold, stress, or illness. If a bird flies away from the feeding station repeatedly, it’s a sign to stop. These cues are nature’s language—and understanding them turns feeding into a dialogue, not a performance.

Follow Seasonal Adjustments

Bird diets and behaviors change with the seasons. In spring, birds may be more active due to breeding and nesting. In summer, they may seek shade and cooler food. In fall, they may become more territorial. In winter, some species may require higher-fat foods. The zoo adjusts feeding protocols accordingly. Check seasonal updates on the zoo’s website or ask staff about how feeding practices shift throughout the year. This adaptability reflects the zoo’s commitment to species-specific care.

Tools and Resources

Maximizing your bird feeding experience at the Tulsa Zoo Aviaries requires more than just good intentions—it requires the right tools and access to authoritative resources. Below is a curated list of essential items and materials to enhance your visit.

Essential Tools for Visitors

• Zoo-Provided Feeding Tongs – Long-handled, non-slip tongs designed to safely deliver food without direct contact.
• Rechargeable Nectar Dispensers – Used for hummingbird and sunbird feeding stations. These are sanitized between uses.
• Small, Biodegradable Trays – For ground-feeding species like turkeys, quail, and pigeons. Made from plant-based materials that decompose naturally.
• Hand Sanitizer – Provided at each feeding station. Always sanitize before and after handling food or tools.
• Field Guide to Oklahoma Avian Species – Available for free at the Aviaries gift shop. Includes photos, calls, and feeding habits of local and exotic birds.

Recommended Personal Gear

While not required, these items significantly enhance your experience:

• Binoculars – A pair with 8x or 10x magnification helps you observe fine details like feather patterns and beak movements.
• Waterproof Notebook – For jotting down observations, species names, or questions to ask staff.
• Weather-Appropriate Clothing – The aviaries are partially open-air. Wear layers, a hat, and closed-toe shoes. Rain is common in Oklahoma; a light poncho is advisable.
• Reusable Water Bottle – Stay hydrated while reducing plastic waste. Water fountains are available throughout the zoo.

Online and Mobile Resources

Before your visit, explore these authoritative resources:

• Tulsa Zoo Official Website – www.tulsazoo.org – Check daily schedules, bird species profiles, and conservation updates.
• Merlin Bird ID App (Cornell Lab of Ornithology) – Use this free app to identify birds by sight or sound. Upload photos or record calls during your visit.
• eBird – ebird.org – Contribute your sightings to a global citizen science database. Your data helps scientists track bird populations.
• AZA Species Survival Plans – aza.org/species-survival-plans – Learn how the Tulsa Zoo participates in global efforts to protect endangered birds.
• YouTube: Tulsa Zoo Education Channel – Watch short videos on bird behavior, feeding routines, and behind-the-scenes care.

Staff and Educational Programs

The Tulsa Zoo employs a team of avian keepers and educators who are available daily for Q&A. Don’t hesitate to ask questions. They can explain how diet affects plumage color, why certain birds are paired for breeding, or how enrichment activities prevent boredom. The zoo also offers weekly “Keeper Talks” at the Aviaries, which include live demonstrations of feeding techniques and insights into conservation challenges facing birds worldwide.

Real Examples

Real-world examples illustrate how responsible bird feeding at the Tulsa Zoo Aviaries leads to tangible outcomes—for both visitors and birds.

Example 1: The Toucan Encounter

In May 2023, a family from Bartlesville visited the Aviaries during a scheduled toucan feeding. The parents, both educators, had prepared their 7-year-old daughter by reading about toucan diets and behavior. During the session, the girl used the provided tongs to place a small slice of papaya on the platform. Instead of rushing, she waited silently. After 30 seconds, a male toucan named “Papaya” approached, tilted his head, and gently picked up the fruit with his beak. The girl gasped—not in excitement, but in awe. “He looked at me,” she said later. That moment sparked her interest in ornithology. She later joined a school bird club and submitted her first eBird observation. The zoo’s educational team noted the interaction in their visitor impact report, highlighting how a single, mindful feeding experience can ignite lifelong curiosity.

Example 2: Hummingbird Conservation in Action

During the summer of 2024, the Tulsa Zoo introduced a new hummingbird feeding station featuring native nectar plants and solar-powered dispensers. Visitors were instructed to refill only when the nectar level dropped below 25%. One regular visitor, a retired biologist, began tracking nectar consumption patterns and noticed that Ruby-throated Hummingbirds were visiting more frequently after the installation. He shared his observations with zoo staff, who adjusted the placement of the feeders based on sun exposure and wind patterns. Within weeks, visitation by hummingbirds increased by 40%. This collaboration between visitor and keeper exemplifies how public participation, when guided by science, directly supports conservation goals.

Example 3: The Parrot Who Learned to Wait

A pair of Blue-and-Gold Macaws in the Tropical Aviary had developed a habit of lunging aggressively for food, often scaring off smaller birds. Zoo staff introduced a “wait and reward” training protocol during feeding sessions. Visitors were taught to hold food just out of reach until the macaws sat calmly for three seconds. Once they did, the food was given. Over time, the macaws learned patience. Their behavior improved, and other birds began to feed nearby without fear. Visitors reported feeling more connected to the birds’ intelligence and emotional depth. This case demonstrates how human interaction, when structured correctly, can enhance animal welfare through positive reinforcement.

Example 4: The Silent Visitor Who Made a Difference

A teenager visiting alone spent an hour observing the waterfowl enclosure without feeding. He noticed a female Mandarin Duck repeatedly avoiding the feeding area. He wrote a note to a zoo educator: “She looks tired. She doesn’t eat like the others.” Staff checked her and discovered she had a minor beak injury from a previous encounter. She was moved to a quiet recovery area and treated. The teenager’s quiet observation—something no camera or app could have detected—led to timely intervention. His story is now featured in the zoo’s “Visitor Voices” exhibit, reminding others that sometimes, the most powerful act is simply watching.

FAQs

Can I bring my own bird food to feed the birds?

No. Outside food is strictly prohibited. Human foods like bread, seeds, nuts, or fruit can be toxic or cause nutritional deficiencies in captive birds. The zoo provides specially formulated diets based on veterinary science and species-specific needs.

Are the birds tame or friendly?

The birds are not pets. While some may appear approachable, they remain wild animals with natural instincts. Feeding is a controlled interaction designed to mimic natural foraging, not to encourage handling or bonding.

Is bird feeding suitable for children?

Yes, with supervision. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. Staff are available to guide young visitors and explain appropriate behavior. It’s an excellent opportunity to teach respect for wildlife.

How often are feeding sessions held?

Feeding sessions occur twice daily—typically at 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM. Times may vary slightly by season or weather. Always check the daily schedule posted at the zoo entrance or on the official website.

Can I touch the birds?

No. Touching birds is not permitted under any circumstances. This protects both the birds from stress and visitors from potential zoonotic diseases or injury.

What should I do if a bird seems sick or injured?

If you notice a bird that appears lethargic, has ruffled feathers, is not eating, or is behaving abnormally, notify a zoo staff member immediately. Do not attempt to intervene yourself. The zoo’s veterinary team responds promptly to all reported concerns.

Do I need to pay extra to feed the birds?

No. Bird feeding is included with general admission. However, the zoo-provided food is sold separately at a nominal cost to support conservation programs. All proceeds go toward avian care and habitat improvements.

Can I photograph the birds during feeding?

Yes, photography is encouraged. However, flash is prohibited, and visitors must not block pathways or crowd enclosures. Use zoom lenses and maintain a respectful distance.

Are the aviaries air-conditioned?

The aviaries are open-air habitats designed to replicate natural environments. They are misted and shaded to maintain comfortable temperatures. Bring a light jacket if visiting in early morning or late evening.

What happens if I feed the birds incorrectly?

Staff are present to guide visitors and will gently correct any unsafe behavior. Mistakes are learning opportunities. The priority is always the birds’ well-being.

Conclusion

Bird feeding at the Tulsa Zoo Aviaries is far more than a tourist attraction—it is a meaningful, science-backed encounter that bridges the gap between humans and the avian world. When done correctly, it fosters empathy, deepens ecological understanding, and supports global conservation efforts. By following the steps outlined in this guide, adhering to best practices, using the right tools, and learning from real examples, you transform a simple visit into a profound experience.

Every time you wait patiently for a toucan to approach, every time you choose silence over noise, every time you report an unusual behavior, you become part of a larger narrative—one where humans act not as dominators of nature, but as respectful observers and stewards. The birds of the Tulsa Zoo Aviaries are ambassadors for their wild counterparts, facing habitat loss, climate change, and illegal trade. Your mindful participation helps ensure their survival.

As you leave the aviaries, carry this lesson beyond the zoo gates: conservation begins with awareness, and awareness begins with presence. Whether you return next week or next year, remember that feeding a bird is not about giving—it’s about listening. And in that quiet exchange, you may just find yourself changed.