Eagle Creek Park’s Ornithology Center

The original building served as the private library of J.K. Lilly, and then transitioned into Eagle Creek Park’s Nature Center for 30 years. In 2010, it reopened as the Ornithology Center to focus primarily on birds and birdwatching.The Foundation funded all of the equipment, materials, and taxidermy used for the renovation. That same year, the Indiana Parks and Recreation Association recognized the Ornithology Center as an “Outstanding Facility” for notable buildings and recreation complexes completed that year (costing less than $250,000).

Part of the building revival included developing an 800-square-foot exhibit hall to feature four distinct habitats (forest, grassland, pond, and wetland), which displays approximately 100 taxidermy birds in their natural settings complete with tranquil sounds of nature. The birds showcased are native to Indiana and for the most part, can all be seen in the park.

Since then, around 3,000 students study the beauty and behavior of birds every year through live bird of prey programs at schools, or during field trips to the Ornithology Center. In addition, 150+ public programs are offered throughout the year as well. A new bird game was introduced recently by the Ornithology Center’s very own Kevin Carlsen, right in front of the facility.