The 96-year-old Hamilton Aviary, a beloved bird sanctuary and educational center in Hamilton, is in need of a new home for its 24 birds. The aviary is currently housed in a deteriorating building in Westdale and has been asked to vacate by Christmas. Run by volunteers and managed by the city, the aviary is considered a cultural heritage of the city and provides therapeutic benefits to both its visitors and volunteers. It is now seeking a new location either within an existing building or on suitable land where they can construct a new facility. With its long history and the positive impact it has had on its volunteers, the aviary represents more than just a sanctuary for birds; it is an important part of the community.
Background
The Hamilton Aviary has been a treasured institution in the city since 1927. Originally located at Dundurn Castle, the aviary had to be temporarily relocated in the 90s due to renovations and eventually found its current home in Westdale. However, the deteriorating state of the building has forced the aviary to search for a new home. This article will explore the importance of the aviary, the current bird population, volunteer efforts, challenges and capacity limits, previous relocation attempts, building condition and repairs, and the city’s decision and future plans.
Importance of the Aviary
The Hamilton Aviary holds significant cultural heritage, as it has been a part of the city for almost a century. The aviary serves as a therapeutic space for residents, providing them with opportunities to interact with the birds. Moreover, the aviary is dedicated to bird care and education, allowing visitors to learn about different bird species and their conservation.
Current Bird Population
Currently, the Hamilton Aviary is home to 24 birds, including 18 parrots and six finches. Most of these birds are rescues, highlighting the aviary’s commitment to providing a safe haven for birds in need. The variety of species in the aviary creates an engaging environment for visitors.
Volunteer Efforts
Volunteers play a crucial role in the operation of the Hamilton Aviary. They contribute their time and skills to ensure that the birds receive the necessary care and attention. For board director Tom Priestly, the aviary has been a personal journey, helping him develop skills and providing a safe space for him as a person diagnosed with autism. The impact of volunteers extends beyond the aviary, as their dedication positively influences the community as a whole.
Challenges and Capacity Limits
One of the challenges faced by the Hamilton Aviary is the inability to accommodate all birds in need of care. Due to capacity limits, the aviary is forced to turn away birds, which is a heartbreaking reality for both the aviary and those seeking help. Additionally, the current building has reached its capacity limits and no longer meets the needs of the aviary and its inhabitants. These challenges are compounded by a lack of transparency from the City of Hamilton.
Previous Relocation Attempts
The Hamilton Aviary has faced previous attempts at relocation, both temporary and permanent. In the 90s, the birds had to be temporarily relocated to the east end of the city due to renovations at Dundurn Castle. Although a plan to move near Gage Park greenhouse was considered in the early 2000s, it was eventually abandoned. Throughout these attempts, there has been a lack of transparency from the City of Hamilton regarding the treatment of the aviary, which has created uncertainty for its future.
Building Condition and Repairs
The current building housing the Hamilton Aviary is in a deteriorating state. It is clear that capital repairs are needed to ensure the safety and well-being of both the birds and visitors. The health and safety concerns associated with the building’s condition highlight the urgency of finding a new home for the aviary.
City’s Decision and Future Plans
The City of Hamilton has made the decision for the aviary to leave its current location. While there is no immediate risk to health and safety, the city is expecting a staff report in September to address the future of the aviary. The city emphasizes its focus on bird welfare and the community’s interest in determining a path forward for the aviary.
Search for a New Home
The Hamilton Aviary is actively searching for a new home. They express their preference for an existing building in Hamilton, but they are also open to the possibility of building on new land. The new location must meet certain requirements to ensure the safety and well-being of the birds. The aviary is committed to preserving bird species, raising awareness about endangered species, and promoting local environmental issues, making it crucial to find a suitable new home.
In conclusion, the Hamilton Aviary is an important cultural institution, providing therapeutic benefits and educational opportunities to residents. The current challenges and capacity limits, coupled with the deteriorating state of the building, have made it necessary for the aviary to find a new home. The City of Hamilton’s decision and future plans, along with the search for a new home, will determine the fate of this beloved aviary and its birds. It is crucial that the community supports the aviary during this transition to ensure the preservation of bird species and the promotion of environmental awareness.