Sefton Council has taken the difficult decision to close the aviary at Botanic Gardens in Churchtown. 

The Council’s Green Sefton service, working alongside the Botanic Gardens Community Association, has been responsible for maintaining the aviary, which first opened in 1939. 

Both groups have been grateful for the many donations of both time and money received from kind-hearted volunteers over the years. 

After carefully reviewing animal welfare guidance and considering the ageing infrastructure of the aviary, the Council decision was taken to begin planning its closure. 

Every effort will be made to rehome the animals with organisations suitably skilled in animal welfare. Green Sefton has confirmed that euthanasia will not be considered at any stage, and that volunteer support will be sought in the interim period if needed. 

Green Sefton staff work along the coast on a daily basis to conserve the Sefton coastal habitat, which provides a natural environment that attracts countless wild birds. Maintaining a suitable habitat for these wild birds will continue to be a key part of the work delivered by the service after closing the aviary, which is among the last council-operated facilities housing animals anywhere in the country.  

Cllr Joanne Williams, Cabinet Member for Public Health and Wellbeing, said: “We are proud to have continued running the aviary long after most other councils across the country stopped operating facilities housing animals entirely. 

“It is no longer possible for it to operate to the high welfare standards that are rightly expected of a modern site. For that reason, the decision has been taken to oversee the aviary’s closure. 

“While many will be saddened by this decision, I’d like to assure everyone that the animals’ welfare will continue to be our top priority.  

“I’d like to personally thank everyone who has supported the aviary over the years, including the wonderful staff and volunteers who have cared for the animals on a daily basis.” 

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