For the birds
Wings of the World, Branson

by Heather Berry

The hillsides outside of Talking Rocks Cavern in Branson West are now home to the new Wings of the World outdoor bird exhibit. Owned by Bruce and Dianna Herschend, the bird park is home to more than 120 exotic birds. Many of the rare feathered friends hail from Asia, Africa, South America and Australia.

Along an outdoor, wheelchair-accessible, 1/4-mile path, visitors get a birds-eye view of rare creatures such as Jesse, a lesser sulfur crested cockatoo from Australia, Wings of the World’s most endangered bird. For those craving a more Jurassic Park-like meeting, visit Henrietta, an Abyssinian ground hornbill from Africa, reminiscent of the dinosaur era.

Currently, a double yellow head Amazon the staff has dubbed Old Man, is the facility’s oldest bird. He was imported from South America 40 years ago, when it was legal to import those birds. With some love and care, Old Man should live to be about 70 years of age.

With a Wings Educational Show in the outdoor amphitheater and a Wings of Magic Show, visitors have four opportunities each day to see these beautiful birds in action.

Wings of the World is located at Talking Rocks Cavern on Hwy. 13 in Branson West. The park is open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tickets are $11.95 for adults, $6.95 for kids. For more information call 1-800-600-2283.