After a six-year renovation the National Zoo’s historic 1928 Bird House reopened to the public in mid-March 2023. More than 80% of the existing masonry walls are retained including a towering mosaic arch decorated with parrots, toucans, songbirds and other tropical species. The innovative exhibit explores the fascinating world of migratory songbirds, waterfowl and shorebirds native to North, Central and South American ecosystems. The exhibit highlights the plight of migratory birds and their endangerment. Bilingual panels-in English and Spanish-tell the story of how migratory birds connect communities and contribute to healthy ecosystems across the Americas. There are more than 170 individual birds representing 56 species on view in the new 27,000 square-foot Bird House and another 16 species in the surrounding outdoor exhibits on the bird plateau.