Albatross Aviary, a nonprofit bird sanctuary and educational organization based in Grand Rapids, is facing an urgent crisis that could threaten its ability to care for more than 75 rescued birds. The aviary, dedicated to rehabilitating and protecting birds impacted by the pet trade, has learned it must vacate its current facility.
“This isn’t just about losing a building,” said Gairen Tembreull, Director of Albatross Aviary. “It’s about losing the only stable, long-term sanctuary many of these birds will ever know. If we cannot relocate in time, these lives hang in the balance.”
The organization, known for its commitment to ending the systemic exploitation of birds through education, ethical care, and advocacy, serves as a long-term sanctuary for its residents. Unlike other organizations, Albatross Aviary does not adopt birds to the public. Instead, it focuses on providing lifelong care for those rescued from trauma, neglect, or abandonment.
Now, these rescued companion birds face an uncertain future. Without a stable facility, some could be displaced, with the risk of being reintroduced to the very trade from which they were saved.
A Call for Immediate Action
Founded with the mission of challenging the exploitative exotic bird trade, Albatross Aviary has become a leading voice for avian welfare. Its focus on rehabilitation and public awareness has helped drive change in how people view and treat birds. However, without a proper facility, the birds in its care—many with complex medical and behavioral needs—are at risk of returning to unstable conditions or suffering further neglect.
The aviary is now urgently seeking a new location that can accommodate its birds and operations. The ideal facility would include indoor and outdoor aviaries, quarantine areas, proper ventilation, and space for educational programs.
In response to this crisis, Albatross Aviary has launched an emergency fundraising and relocation campaign. The organization is calling on the community to provide immediate support in the following ways:
Monetary donations to cover relocation and rebuilding costs
Leads on suitable properties or facilities within or near Grand Rapids
Volunteers and skilled labor for packing, transport, and setup
Business partnerships and sponsorships to sustain operations
Public amplification of the crisis via social media and local outlets
All contributions will directly support the organization’s emergency response, ensuring the safety and well-being of every bird in its care.
The Impact of the Crisis
Beyond the immediate need to secure a new facility, the loss of Albatross Aviary’s location would also disrupt its vital educational programs. These include semester-long internships for university students and partnerships with local conservation groups such as the John Ball Zoo. These initiatives have helped shape the next generation of wildlife advocates and educated the public about the often-overlooked consequences of the exotic bird trade.
How to Help
Community members interested in supporting Albatross Aviary can make donations or inquire about facility leads by visiting www.albatrossaviary.org. For urgent inquiries or media requests, contact the organization at contact@albatrossaviary.org.
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