The soft-bill aviaries are attractively planted inside and out. Clematis climbing over the exterior of some added a touch of pale pink magic. The lush planting sets the scene for birds from the tropics such as Amethyst Starlings, with their iridescent purple plumage, and the Yellow-throated Laughing Thrush, with its blue head and pale yellow breast. Hornbills are a speciality. A second generation nesting for the latter species was taking place.
Parrots are also well represented, making up about one quarter of the species exhibited.
They include various species of Amazons, including Cubans, Macaws including Hyacinthines, Hawk-headed Parrots and Keas. They burrow into sandstone cliffs. To see Crowned Cranes dancing is to witness one of the most flamboyant displays in the avian world. With their crests like golden fans, red wattles and snow- white wings, they are surely the most elegant of all cranes. They breed every year.