The team at the aviary at the Botanic Gardens in Churchtown in Southport have announced that the aviary will be closing in March next year.
They say they will “do our best to change the council’s plans” and not yet at the stage of rehoming any of the birds at the attraction.
The aviary has won a battle against closure before.
In 2012, a campaign took place to prevent the closure of the aviary, fernery and nursery shop at the Botanic Gardens due to council cuts during the Austerity period.
Writing on the Botanic Gardens Aviaries Southport Facebook page, Connor, Emily, Lucy and Luk wrote: “We’re devastated to be writing this, but aviary staff have today been told that the aviary will be closing as of March 2027 due to council budget cuts.
“The aviary staff are not in support of this decision and will do our best to change the council’s plans.
“Budget cuts were announced in March and the aviary team have only been informed today that the council have deemed the aviary not worthy of funding.
“We’re hoping that we’ve messaged everyone who has recently donated an animal to us, but if we’ve missed you please pop us a message.
“We are not currently at the stage of rehoming our animals.
“We will be monitoring our Facebook so please send us a message if you have any concerns / queries.
“Our animals mean the absolute world to us, we’re truly heartbroken.
“Thank you for everyone’s continued support.”
Commenting on the post, Connor Atherton wrote: “To everyone who knows me, whether through the aviary or in everyday life, you’ll know just how much this park, its birds, and all of its animals mean to me. Finding this out today has been a blow to me and the team but It has been an absolute privilege to be able to share that passion with every visitor who would listen to me yap over the last three years.
“A huge thank you to my amazing colleagues and everyone who has supported me and helped the aviary grow. Your support has meant everything.
“I’ll keep doing everything I can to help ensure the aviary remains open for everyone to enjoy. Every message, share, and show of support is greatly appreciated. Thank you.
– Bird Man”
Joyce Blinston wrote: “How much does it cost the council to fund the Aviaries?
“Is there any way you can do events/go fund pages/ apply for lottery funds etc. each year to keep it going.
“I am sure you would get a lot of support and so many people get lots of pleasure from seeing all the birds.”
Tweet Retreats Birdie Boarding wrote: “This is absolutely heartbreaking news.
“I really hope you’re able to change the council’s mind.
“I’ll also be emailing the council to share my concerns from a rescue point of view.
“These aviaries don’t just provide a safe haven for so many birds — they also educate and inspire the public about bird welfare and conservation, which is so important.
“If, despite everyone’s efforts, the decision can’t be overturned, please know I’d be more than happy to volunteer some time from my own rescue to help find the birds suitable new homes and share any fundraisers or appeals if you decide to continue without the council’s support.”
Elle Bolton wrote: “I’d also be willing to donate to a GoFundMe page or pay a little bit every month to help keep it going!!
“If nothing else can be done, hopefully enough of us would be able to pitch in. This park was my childhood and I’ve always loved seeing all the animals there.
“I want to take my little boy more too and pass down the same passion I have for them.
“We already lost the museum and the little ‘train’ years ago, more things that made the park stand out as it wasn’t just playgrounds and cafes.
“I’m gonna make a point of visiting more in the meantime when I can, but please keep us updated in case anything changes.”
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