History
Today
Tracy Aviary is currently in the process of achieving our dream of becoming the “Aviary of the Americas” with the recent completion of our master plan, which will change the Aviary as we all know it. With a theme of migration we will trace the migratory path of birds from the southern tip of Argentina to Alaska and back, highlighting the importance Utah plays in that journey. All areas of the Aviary will take on an educational focus and bring your visit to the Aviary to a new level of fun and interest.
Completion of the Chase Mill, Utah’s oldest standing industrial building opened for events in December 2006. The Mill at the Aviary is a historic monument (still bearing the original Brigham Young initials) that is a magnificent addition to Tracy Aviary, offering numerous opportunities for year-round bird programs, special events, and a public meeting space.
Opening to rave reviews in Summer 2005 was Destination Argentina!, the Aviary’s first new exhibit in over 20 years. The money was granted to the Aviary through a bond voted on by the voters of Salt Lake City. This bond passed with 72% of the voters recognizing the benefit and value of Tracy Aviary! Upon completion of Destination Argentina!, Tracy Aviary increased the flamingo collection to twenty and created a walk-through interactive exhibit with guira kookoo's, red crested cardinals, elegant crested tinamou and the always-playful monk parakeets. This exhibit is an excellent example of the look and feel that our new master plan will help us achieve throughout the Aviary grounds.
Recent Past
In recent years, a great deal of effort has gone toward improving every aspect of Tracy Aviary, including the collection, the staff, and the grounds. In 2001/2002 Tracy Aviary's staff and board developed a strategic plan that allows Tracy Aviary to renew its position as one of Salt Lake City’s most prized assets.
Friends of Tracy Aviary
In 1993, a support organization, the Friends of Tracy Aviary, reorganized Tracy Aviary as a private, nonprofit corporation and prepared for the responsibilities of its management. In 1994, Tracy Aviary became a fully independent institution. Annual operating support is received from Salt Lake City Corporation; the Zoo, Arts, and Parks Fund of Salt Lake County; and through the generosity of many individuals, corporations and foundations.
Further Back
For the 12 years prior to Aviary management by Friends of Tracy Aviary, the Aviary was managed by Salt Lake City Corporation. A highlight of this administration was the tenure of curator, D. Grenville Roles, who focused on building Tracy Aviary to become a premier institution. Salt Lake City increased its operational and financial interest and provided more than $500,000 to improve the buildings and other structures.
Tracy Aviary committed itself to providing more educational programs and opportunities for the benefit of the citizens of Salt Lake City and surrounding areas. As a result, educational outreach programs for children in public schools became a central focus for Tracy Aviary education staff. In 1990, Tracy Aviary was accredited by the American Zoo and Aquarium Association (AZA). With accreditation, the public is assured that Tracy Aviary meets required high standards in the areas of animal care, visitor experience, and educational purpose.
Our Beginnings (1938-1982)
For Tracy Aviary’s first 37 years, Calvin R. Wilson was the curator and visionary. During his tenure several world-first breeding occurred here, along with recognition for the part Tracy Aviary played in recovery efforts of the Trumpeter Swan. Wilson retired in 1975 and for the next several years (1976-1982) Tracy Aviary was troubled by poor management, meager funding, and widespread deterioration of both the buildings and the bird collection.
