Join us for our 2026 season of Bottle Talks, a LECTURE SERIES featuring some of the most interesting academics in the city presenting their work in a good old fashion dive bar.

From dinosaurs to conceptual art, these talks have run the gaumet of topics and interests - while still being fun enough to enjoy with a draft beer or cocktail!

March's edition feature's a full night takeover from Pittsburgh's own NATIONAL AVIARY, including an onstage appearnce by a real life AFRICAN PENGUIN, right in Bottlerocket!

Katie Manion - AZA SAFE African Penguins Vice Program Chair and Curator of Education

Cathy Schlott - Director of Animal Programs

"All About the AZA SAFE African Penguin Program"

Penguins are undeniably charismatic—and full of surprises. Dive into the fascinating world of penguins to discover their remarkable adaptations, quirky behaviors, and the challenges they face in the wild. The National Aviary is home to a thriving colony of African Penguins and proudly leads the AZA SAFE African Penguin program dedicated to their survival.

With fewer than 9,000 breeding pairs remaining in the wild, these birds are critically endangered and need our help more than ever. Hear from AZA SAFE African Penguins Vice Program Chair and Curator of Education Katie Manion and Director of Animal Programs Cathy Schlott as they share behind-the-scenes insights, conservation success stories, and ways you can make a difference. Plus, get ready for a special appearance by an Ambassador African Penguin—because no penguin talk is complete without a penguin.

Plus an open audience Q&A with both after.

PLUS! 100% of the ticket sales from this event will be donated back to the speakers research departments to help support their ongoing work!