All Things Coffee with The Aviary

Top 5 Coffee Spots Near Universal Studios Bedford (Including One with Parrots!)
Heading to Universal Studios Bedford and in need of great coffee? This guide highlights five of the best coffee spots nearby—including one totally unique experience where you can sip ethically sourced coffee, meet real parrots, and support wildlife conservation.

Conservation and Coffee: How The Aviary Gives Back to Wildlife
At The Aviary, conservation is at the heart of everything we do. This post explores how your daily cup of speciality coffee supports parrot habitats, sustainable farming, and our 2025 charity partner, Macaw Mountain Bird Park in Honduras. Learn how we’re giving back to the wild places where our coffee grows—and how you could be part of our conservation mission for 2026.

No, You Shouldn't Store Fresh Coffee In The Fridge - UNLESS You Like Spag Bol Flavoured Coffee
Thinking of storing your coffee in the fridge? Think again. This post breaks down why fridges can ruin your beans, how coffee absorbs moisture and smells (yes, even leftover bolognese), and the right way to freeze coffee if you really need to. Simple tips for keeping your brews fresh and flavourful.

Coffee Around the World: Unique Traditions & How Cultures Brew Their Favourite Cup
Coffee is a global ritual, and every culture has its own way of brewing, serving, and savouring it. In this post, we take a journey through some of the world’s most unique and beloved coffee traditions—from Italian espresso to Vietnamese iced coffee—plus simple ways to recreate them at home.

Easy Summer Coffee Recipes You Can Make at Home
Looking to beat the heat with better coffee? This post rounds up five easy, delicious summer coffee recipes you can make at home—no fancy equipment needed. From iced lattes to coconut coolers, these refreshing brews are perfect for warm days and even better with your favourite Aviary beans.

Everything You Need to Know About Shade-Grown Coffee
Shade-grown coffee isn’t just better for flavour—it’s better for birds, biodiversity, and the planet. In this post, we break down what shade-grown really means, why it matters for wildlife like parrots, and how choosing it supports a more sustainable future for coffee.

The Difference Between Washed, Natural, and Honey Processed Coffee
Washed, natural, and honey processed coffees each bring unique flavours to the cup—but they also differ in how they're made, and even how sustainable they are. This post breaks down what each method means, how it affects taste, and why The Aviary currently works with washed coffees that let each origin shine.

The Reality of Coffee Certifications: Why Some Great Coffee Farms Don’t Have Them
Certifications like Organic or Fairtrade can be helpful, but they’re not the full story. Many small coffee farms use sustainable, ethical methods but simply can’t afford the high cost of certification. In this post, we explore why some incredible coffees come without labels—and why we choose to support them at The Aviary.

The Rise of Functional Coffees: Health Benefits in Your Coffee
Functional coffee is one of the biggest wellness trends in the coffee world right now—and for good reason. Blending quality coffee with health-boosting ingredients like mushrooms, collagen, or adaptogens, it offers all the flavour of your morning brew with added benefits for focus, energy, and immunity. This post explores what functional coffee is, why it’s gaining popularity, and whether it’s worth adding to your daily routine.

Brewing Trouble: How Climate Change is Driving Up Coffee Prices and Impacting Colombia's Coffee Industry
Climate change is reshaping the coffee industry, driving up prices and threatening the livelihoods of farmers worldwide. In Colombia, rising temperatures, unpredictable weather, and increased pests have led to declining yields, shifting growing regions, and economic uncertainty for coffee producers. Over the last five years, some areas have seen production drop by as much as 35%. Meanwhile, extreme weather events in other coffee-growing nations have tightened global supply, pushing prices higher for consumers. With coffee demand rising and climate challenges intensifying, the future of coffee depends on sustainable farming, innovation, and climate resilience.

The Rising Cost of Green Coffee Beans in 2025: Trends, Causes, and Future Outlook
If you've noticed your daily coffee costing more lately, you're not alone. Green coffee bean prices have soared to record highs, impacting roasters, cafes, and consumers alike. But why is coffee becoming so expensive? From extreme weather affecting harvests to increasing global demand and supply chain disruptions, multiple factors are driving up costs. This article breaks down the key reasons behind the price surge, what it means for the coffee industry, and whether we can expect relief in the coming years. Grab a cup, and let's dive in!

Is Coffee Addictive? The Science Behind Caffeine and Habit
Is coffee truly addictive, or is it just a habit we love? While caffeine can create a mild dependence, science shows it doesn’t cause the compulsive behaviour or severe withdrawal seen in true addictions. Caffeine works by blocking adenosine (the chemical that makes us feel tired) and gives a small dopamine boost, but its effects are far milder than addictive substances. While quitting coffee suddenly can lead to temporary withdrawal symptoms like headaches and fatigue, moderate coffee consumption has plenty of benefits. So, is coffee addictive? Not really—it’s just a daily ritual many of us enjoy.

How Coffee Farming Can Help (or Harm) Parrot Populations
Coffee farming has a massive impact on wildlife, especially in tropical regions where parrots live. When done unsustainably, it leads to deforestation, destroying critical nesting sites and food sources for parrots and other birds. But when grown the right way—under the shade of native trees—coffee farming can actually protect habitats and support biodiversity. At The Aviary, we source Bird-Friendly coffee, educate farmers on ethical practices, and donate to wild parrot conservation. Choosing the right coffee makes a difference—not just in your cup, but in the world.

The Psychology of Coffee: Why Does It Feel So Comforting?
Coffee is more than just a drink—it’s a ritual, a moment of comfort, and a daily source of joy. Whether it’s the warmth of the cup in your hands, the familiar aroma filling the air, or the first sip that instantly lifts your mood, coffee has a unique way of grounding us. Science backs this up too—its warmth triggers feelings of relaxation, its aroma reduces stress, and its caffeine gives a gentle dopamine boost. But beyond that, coffee is social, nostalgic, and deeply tied to our routines. So why does coffee feel so comforting? Let’s dive into the psychology behind it.

What Does Bird-Friendly Coffee Mean?
Bird-Friendly coffee isn’t just about great flavour—it’s about protecting wildlife. Unlike conventional coffee farming, which often leads to deforestation, Bird-Friendly coffee is grown under a natural tree canopy, preserving critical habitats for migratory birds and other wildlife. Certified by the Smithsonian Migratory Bird Center, it meets strict organic and sustainability standards, making it one of the most environmentally responsible coffee choices available. At The Aviary, we proudly support Bird-Friendly coffee, ensuring your morning brew helps protect the birds that inspire us.

How Altitude Affects Coffee Flavour
Ever wondered why some coffees taste bright and fruity while others are rich and chocolatey? The answer often lies in altitude. The elevation where coffee is grown affects everything from sweetness and acidity to body and complexity. Higher altitudes produce slower-growing beans packed with vibrant flavours, while lower altitudes create smooth, chocolatey coffees with a heavier body. Whether you love bright citrusy notes or deep caramel richness, understanding altitude can help you find your perfect cup.