The sanctuary is located at the edge of Forest Park, one of the largest urban forests in the United States.
The Wildlife Care Center at this location is one of the busiest wildlife hospitals in the Pacific Northwest.
The organization rebranded from Portland Audubon to Bird Alliance of Oregon in 2024 to better reflect its statewide scope.
The sanctuary grounds contain the Wildwood Trail, which connects to the broader 30-mile trail system within Forest Park.
It operates as a non-profit organization rather than a traditional public zoo, focusing on rescue and rehabilitation.
Bird Alliance of Oregon operates a 150-acre nature sanctuary located in the forested hills of Forest Park. It provides essential rehabilitation services for injured native wildlife and maintains over four miles of hiking trails. The site features a Wildlife Care Center that treats thousands of native birds and mammals annually. The sanctuary grounds are situated within a larger migratory corridor, making it a prime location for observing local avian species in their natural habitat. Educational programming focuses on native plants, bird identification, and local conservation initiatives. The facilities include an interpretive center and a nature store dedicated to wildlife conservation products. It serves as a regional hub for environmental education and community-led habitat restoration projects. Visitors can explore diverse forest ecosystems ranging from riparian areas to dense conifer groves. It functions as an advocacy organization that maintains a historical presence in Portland’s conservation efforts.
The elevated boardwalk near the interpretive center, which offers a clear vantage point of the forest floor and nearby feeders.
Wear sturdy, waterproof footwear as trails can be muddy and uneven, especially during the rainy season.
Bring binoculars to observe the birds in the sanctuary's dense canopy, where they are often easier to hear than see.
Check the sanctuary's official website before visiting to see if specific trails are closed for maintenance or restoration.
Attempting to interact with or photograph injured wildlife near the care center, as this causes unnecessary stress to the animals.
The wildlife hospital intake area and visitor center may have different operating schedules; check for seasonal closures during inclement winter weather.
Stay on marked trails to protect sensitive habitat, keep voices low to avoid disturbing wildlife, and pack out all trash.
