The varied habitats at Zion National Park support a remarkable diversity of wildlife, in particular birds. Over 290 avian species, from ducks to woodpeckers to eagles, are found in five different ecosystems within the park. These range from high plateaus to deep canyons, and the Virgin River and its tributaries.
The park’s museum collection includes 450 bird specimens and associated field notes that document the presence of birds in the park over time. Scientists use the collection to study avian skeletal structure, plumage, diet, genetics, diversity, and adaptation as well as park ecology and the environment.
This exhibit explores observable characteristics such as bills and talons, plumage, size and shape used to identify bird species in the wild.
Identifiable field marks of bird species
