Abilene Zoo is proud to announce the launch of its newest conservation initiative, Abilene Bird Coffee, a bird-friendly coffee that will support Abilene Zoo’s Bird Rehab Center and conservation efforts worldwide. This initiative is part of the Zoo’s new involvement in the North American Songbird SAFE program. AZA SAFE (Saving Animals From Extinction) is a collaborative conservation program led by AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums to protect endangered species through research, education, and fieldwork efforts.
Through Abilene Zoo’s Bird Rehab Center, the zoo helps rehabilitate hundreds of birds each year, contributing directly to the conservation of North American songbirds. The Smithsonian started the Bird Friendly Coffee certification as part of the SAFE program, this ensures that coffee is grown in a way that preserves bird habitats. Certified farms must meet stringent requirements, including maintaining at least 45% shade cover, planting native tree species, and avoiding harmful pesticides. These practices help sustain migratory birds’ habitats and support overall ecosystem health.
To support this, Abilene Zoo has proudly partnered with AMPERSAND Coffee Roasters, which produces top-quality coffee while promoting environmental sustainability and women’s empowerment. All AMPERSAND coffee is Bird-Friendly and Fair-Trade certified, and some, like their Peruvian coffee, is Regenerative Organic Certified, which contributes to the reforestation of the Peruvian rainforest. Abilene Bird Coffee highlights the zoo’s commitment to the conservation of bird species, both locally and globally.
Matthew Strong oversees all SAFE programs at the Abilene Zoo and is excited about the project: “Abilene Bird Coffee will help bring extra awareness to different conservation programs and highlight the zoo’s Bird Rehab efforts. All profits from the coffee will directly support our bird rehab and conservation programs, continuing our vital work.”
Abilene Bird Coffee will offer three different coffee blends: the Honduras Blend, the Peruvian Blend, and the Guatemalan Blend. Starting October 12, coffee bags will be available for purchase at the Zoo Gift Shop. Visitors can also enjoy cold brew, iced coffee, and hot coffee at the zoo’s concession stands.
