Do you know how bird flight actually works? Or where a bird’s knee bends? Or how many different types of nests there are? Even in the city, birds are part of our everyday landscape, but they’re often hidden in trees or winging overhead. Our Hall of Birds provides a rare chance to get a good long and close look at our winged friends.

This hall presents an incredibly diverse selection of birds from all over the world, with examples of more than 400 species that are local to Southern California. You’ll learn about the mechanics of flight and the particular anatomical details that determine how birds can fly.

Be sure to open the drawers under the cases: There you’ll discover all kinds of bird specimen examples and parts: from egg types, to nests, wings, feet and more. The hall invites you to explore all the questions you may have about birds.