Lincoln Park Aviary

The Lincoln Park Aviary began as a pigeon roost in the iconic Polanco Clock Tower. Built in 1938, the flock soon grew to include all kinds of species. By the late 1940s, the tower’s pigeons proved too much for the structure and they had to be moved out. But no one forgot. Some 60 years later in 2006, nearly on the other side of the Parque Lincoln, an all-new aviary was opened. Today the clock tower functions as an art gallery, and the pigeons are joined by birds of all kinds.

Today, the aviary acts as a sanctuary for rescued birds. Victims of trafficking, and even just lousy pet-owners, they’re placed here by the Federal Environmental Prosecutor (PROFEPA).

Many of the resident birds are parrots. They’re particularly valuable to traffickers. So visitors may find some nervous birds. It’s important to respect their distance and not get too close.

In general, the aviary is home to about 240 birds of 23 species. There are normally sparrows, mockingbirds and cardinals, and these will take flight as the would in the open air.

It’s an essential part of the park, and a quiet reminder of the gentleness and generosity of Polanco as a whole. The Lincoln Park Aviary is just one part of a park that’s teeming with Polanco essentials.

Hours: Tuesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.