The National Aviary today announced a $2 million grant from the Richard King Mellon Foundation to support construction of an indoor, year-round, free-flight bird theater.

According to a news release, the grant brings the foundation's total investment in the avian immersion theater project to $5 million and increases the total raised for the project to $15.7 million. Construction of the theater, along with upgrades and renovations to the existing facility, is estimated to total $28.5 million, the release said.

The aviary said the new theater will be the first of its kind.

"Rare and endangered bird species from around the world will be featured, giving audiences the opportunity to see these birds in flight and demonstrating natural behaviors. Music, sound and educational messaging will enhance the presentation, creating a powerful learning experience for audiences," the news release said.

The aviary plans to break ground next year.