With the economy in dire straits, the Tampa Bay SPCA is seeing an increase in exotic birds being surrendered because people are having to relocate to a smaller living situation and/or can’t afford their bird any longer. Last month alone, an estimated 15 parrots were turned over to the SPCA, who then turns to specific bird rescue groups for help in housing these birds. Also on the rise is the use of anti-psychotic drugs to stop birds from behavioral problems such as feather plucking or extreme vocalization.
So what is the problem? People lack knowledge about birds before buying one. Birds are wild animals, and when housed in tiny cages for long periods of time, are no better off than a dog in a puppy mill. Sure we feed them, say we love them, and let them out of their cage when we can, but is it enough? The answer, is no. Most parrots do live for a very long time, up to 60+ years in captivity for the larger species. Birds do not belong in a cage for the majority of their life, if at all. Being a cage-bound animal often leads to behavioral problems such as excessive vocalizing, feather plucking, and aggression. And instead of focusing on the root of their problems, people are turning their veterinarians for drugs that will subdue their wild animal’s instincts. And as Matt Smith, bird rescuer who operates ‘Project Perry, Inc.’ in Virginia was quoted saying:
“What would be best for parrots is if they never became pets.”
So now comes the other problem: Where do these exotic birds come from?
You may be surprised to know that most exotic birds come from Bird Mills and have the same set up as puppy mills: rows and rows of wire cages, poor nutrition, lack of any stimulation and enrichment, and birds are forced to breed over and over like machines. Just as bad as puppy mills, but since people are accustomed to seeing birds in cages, many people turn a blind eye to the situation. So, yes, that bird you bought at the pet store-probably came from a bird mill.
According to HSUS, when wild-caught animals are kept as pets, their suffering may begin with capture—every year millions of birds and reptiles suffer and die on the journey to the pet store. Even after purchase, their lives are likely to be filled with misery. If they survive, they may languish in a cramped backyard cage or circle endlessly in a cat carrier or aquarium. More commonly, they become sick or die because their owners are unable to care for them properly. And not only that, the global wild pet trade continues to threaten the existence of some species in their native habitats.
I encourage everyone to look at this website, and watch the video’s on bird mills. Just as word is spreading about the horrors of puppy mills, we can get word out about other types of Pet Mills and put a stop to them as well.
Read my next article to see what you can do to stop Pet Mills.
Bird Mills Exposed-Part 1
Bird Mills Exposed-Part 2
Comments
So far, this has been a terribly one sided commentary. Note, I do not say report because a report has both sides stated. This is an animal rights commentary. When are you going to publish the real truth.
It's too bad this writer didn't seek out some sourcse other than HSUS, and a self-styled "parrot rescuer" from another state before writing this article. FLorida has many excellent parrot breeders, and excellent avian vets, who could have offered soem first-hand inforamtion and insight that is sorely lacking here. For instance, the importation of parrots to the United Staes has been banned since 1992, but you would never know that from this article.
Hi Judith & Bonnie, Thank you for your comments. I actually did speak with an avian veterinarian (not affiliated with HSUS) and she was the one who informed me of the use of anti-pyschotic drugs used on parrots, and her opinion was that many birds were better off left in their natural habitat. I don't doubt that there are wonderful avian vets (I know several and am friends with many of them myself). However, my main point and truth of the matter is that Bird Mills exist and I think we all agree, should be shut down. As with puppy mills, it's one thing to purchase a bird from a reputable breeder where you can see the living conditions, and another to purchase one from a pet store. -Jessica, Tampa Small Pets Examiner
While some birds do benefit from drugs, there are millions more that do not need them, are loved and are cared for. Might I suggest you find a local bird breeder, go talk to them, go look at their aviary and then tell both sides. Are there bad breeders, you bet your car there are, but there are far more really good breeders who care about the birds and do what they do because they love them. Might I suggest you do the "OTHER SIDE" as well. BTW, talk to a board certified avian vet, not just an avian vet. You have many of them down in FL. If you would like some names, please feel free contact me and I can give you information on the board certified avian vets in your area.
For what it is worth, the "expert" rescuer you spoke to (yes I am familiar with this man)has not had birds as long as many. Maybe an expose on rescue/sanctuaries that can be as bad or worse than any of the so called bird mills.
OH and I am NOT a breeder, just a bird owner that is concerned about some of the people who are now in our community.
Your article leaves an impression that one, parrots are still being caught in the wild and imported, which is incorrect, two, that those not caught in the wild are produced in "bird mills," and three, people are simply reaching for drugs rather than trying to work through behaviour issues. (On that last, I could note that the same things is done with children.) The fact that these last two situations sometimes may arise hardly means they are the norm, and your article offers no balance.
I am not, for what it's worth, a parrot breeder and am, in fact, probably what most would consider a sanctuary owner. As a former trial laywer, however, I think it's important to look at both sides of any story and that was not done here. I understand space limitations, but you had room enough to present HSUS's claims regarding imported exotics, but with extremely limited exceptions, no parrots have been imported into this country in over 16 years.
Thanks again ladies. I will continue researching the points you brought up. I agree very much with much of what you both said. I am very open to the idea of researching the 'other side' of the bird industry, so please feel free to e-mail me with any recommendations you may have. I spent yesterday at a local sea bird sanctuary in their bird hospital, where they have over 140 injured birds they are being rehabilitated. I am glad to hear you both are as passionate about animals as I am.
Jessica
Considering that Matt Smith is a very young man,a relative newcomer to birds, and is attempting to make money by "rescuing" birds and even rescuing birds "by force" on occasion; therefore, I would not consider his comments to have any validity other than he has an opinion the matter.
As far as birds remaining in the wild, Hmmm...WHAT wild? Forests are going down by the acre every day, world wide, wetlands are being drained and the land is used.
What do the field biologists say? What do the conservation experts say? The late Dr. Ulysses Seal, of the International Union for the Conservation
of Nature, stated that there were TWO critical ways that birds and animals must be addressed in order to save them from extinction: conserve habitat and breed them in captivity. I think I would be dealing with experts before I would be printing stuff about bird mills and wild caught imports and behavior problems.
And, HSUS has never ever been identified as an expert in exotic birds, bird breeding, or bird farms.
HSUS is basically against animal ownership so I would expect propaganda against bird and animal ownership. People interested in real animal welfare might do well to check out www.naiaonline.org and www.naiatrust.org
The reasons why many vets resort to drugs is because they are not trained in behaviour modification. The same goes for most medical doctors. I operate a rescue for parrots and say that I agree with the commentary much more than the article itself.
Any wild caughts that have been recieved by us have been well over 25 yrs old and only 4 over the years. Having worked with over 500 parrots that would be less than 1%.
Most birds would only breed in optimum conditions and require a good diet and proper surroundings. (There are some that would breed in anything) but the majority do require large flights, proper lighting etc.
I think it is important to understand the difference between Animal Rights and Animal Welfare groups. PETA, HSUS and the New York Bird Club fall under Animal Rights groups. It is their goal to abolish pet ownership and use misinformation and scare tactics to fundraise to continue their propaganda.
I do hope you will investiage further as you say.
Nancy
Jessica,
I believe you believe what you say.
You said: "However, my main point and truth of the matter is that Bird Mills exist and I think we all agree, should be shut down."
Can you (1) identify even ONE specific "bird mill" (by name and location), and (2) show us any credible evidence (current photos or video) of what the conditions are at that location AT THIS TIME, and (3) state what exactly makes those conditions into a "bird mill".
Thank you.
Genny Wall
Jessica,
Birds have been kept as pets since man could walk upright. Our keeping parrots as pets has been depicted in artwork since the time before Christ. Alexander the Great is known historically to have had a pet parrot in 327 BC.
The trade in wild caught birds ended in the early 1990's. Most wild caught pairs are getting older and production has slowed down. That leaves us with domestic breeding pairs. Our domestic pairs are well suited for a life with humans.
Our breeding facilities are not mills. Most birds do not reproduce readily. We have to meet all our parrots needs for them to breed.
TIny cages are not the norm for most breeders. My average size cage is 10 foot long. Some are as long as 28 feet. Obese parrots do not breed. Large cage = ability to fly and stay fit. In Florida, we keep our parrots outside in the fresh air and sunshine.
Rows of cages- Why yes, I have rows of cages. How else can I have an orderly way to feed and service my cages? But I do have 8-10 feet between cages. BTW- the cages are on tall stands so the parrots are up 8-10 feet.
Most parrots will not breed if not fed properly. Most breeders feed a variety of foods. Including pelleted or extruded diet, fortified seed mix, lots and lots of FRESH produce, hard nuts(almonds, brazils, macadamia) and even cooked diets. I regularly make both birdy bread and bean cuisine.
Lack of stimulation or enrichment? Most breeders do provide enrichment for their birds. Maybe not bright plastic toys but enrichment the birds need. We tend to focus on foraging and chewing needs. Those types of enrichment mimic the natural behaviors of wild parrots. We also tend to have many different perch types.
It was stated that "forced to breed over and over". I would like to know who has learned how to force a parrot to breed, sit or feed their young.
Now let's talk about the other aspects of breeding. A breeder must provide a secure environment for the birds. From humans, predators and pests.
A breeder must provide a clean and bio secure environment for their birds.This means clean climate controlled food storage, daily bowl washing, nest box maintenance, cage cleaning, environmental cultures, strict quarantine practices and the list goes on.
A breeder must have a good relationship with an Avian DVM. Most breeders are better about taking a bird to the vet than a private person.
Most bird breeders are not in it for the money. It is expensive to care for parrots. We do it for the love of birds and pray we break even. Bird keeping is a lifestyle. We work 7 days a week. No time off for sickness or holidays.
Most people try to be decent but there will always be a dirt bag who doesn't properly care for their flock.Does that mean we let species of birds go extinct due to the few's poor judgement and care. We will always have bad parents or drivers. Do we stop everyone because one might be bad?
The public should do it's research before acquiring any new pet. It is a lack of forethought and education that leads to problems. That is not the breeder's fault. In fact many breeders spend large numbers of hours counseling the pet public on behavioral issues.
If you believe a life wild and free is the only way---Then extinction will be the course for many birds. Life in the wild is not a rosy picture. You have the loss of habitat due to lumbering, mining, farming or development, foraging for scarcer food supplies, competition with humans for habitat and food source. You have the constant vigil not to be dinner for a predator. And on and on.
Humans have made the transition from life in the wild to living in incredibly small apartments, in cities with populations of many millions. Do you think birds are the only ones making a shift in living arraignments.
You stated birds are being placed on anti psychotic drugs. That is a new one on me. I do see too many humans on anti psychotic or anti depression drugs. Maybe having a bird companion would help a few humans with behavioral issues.
Sanctuaries are often a substandard place for birds. They are always short money. Feeding anything they can get donated. Housed in crowded conditions. And the only vet care is if it is donated. They often sell birds but call it a donation or re homing fee.
Please beware of the animal rights agenda. They believe in total separation of humans and animals. No use of animals for food, fiber, research, education or companions. I don't want that world as a reality. I know total acceptance and love from my animals and would not trade that love for anything.
I talked with Danielle at Tampa Bay SPCA and she was very surprised to learn that 15 parrots were surrendered last month. I read out the statement made by Jessica Whitehouse in the Examiner, she conferred with a colleage and stated they were unaware of 15 parrots being surrendered last month and that it was strange for someone to have made that statement. Danielle said they currently have one parakeet for adoption and said "its slow this time of year".
She stated that they work with Safe Haven sanctaury in Hudson to relocate birds. I asked her if they tried to adopt out birds before placing them with the santuary, she stated that every animal coming into the SPCA is offered for adoption.
On the Safe Haven website, there is a link to Care 2, a shared internet photo album so that birds up for adoption by Safe Haven may be viewed. In June 07, there were 11 birds available and in Sept. 07 an additional 5 birds. No update since then.
Oh my, talk about ruffling some feathers.
Okay, I will be the first one to admit, I am NO SELF CLAIMED BIRD EXPERT. Period. But I CAN tell you there are some very passionate bird lovers out there who are. I generally try to be very neutral on many subjects...and breeding is a touchy subject matter for MANY people (dog breeders, cat breeders, bird breeders,etc.). I am human, and I make mistakes, but I can also tell you that I am willing to learn from them. Some people just want to be heard and belittle me, while others want to be heard but will take the time to help me in the process…send me good links, reports, studies, etc. to look at. So I thank those of you that have contacted me to help me in this process. Those people do the bird industry proud.
So through the help of these passionate bird lovers I am educating myself on the other side of the bird breeding industry. And there are always extremists on both ends. Sometimes the ‘animal rights’ girl in me comes out, and for that I agree, I should have investigated my story better and looked at both sides. But I am not a close minded person some of you are making me out to be. So in an effort to further educate myself I am researching several points mentioned, and I will do my best to depict the good in the bird industry. But please be patient. It will take me time to get information together. I’m not passing the buck; there are many issues, a lot of reading to do; it will take some time.
Susan, I received my info from a very credible source at the SPCA
Jessica, I think you will need to name your source if you expect to be taken seriously.
Jessica, looking at the posts it appears that many bird lovers are trying hard to show you the other side of the story. There is always another side. There are unfortunate circumstances that occur in every aspect of keeping animals. Yet, I feel that the vast majority of people who keep parrots are concerned and responsible. The efforts made to prepare healthy foods, learn about metals, poisons, proper caging, environmental enrichment and behavior modification using positive reinforcement is monumental. I have found that people who keep birds are generally more dedicated and knowledgeable about the animals they keep, than most people who keep dogs and cats. This applies to bird breeders as well as pet owners. It has been my experience that the people who are unsuccessful at keeping birds are the ones that yell the loudest that birds should not be kept as pet. These are the people who are unwilling to put the necessary effort into their birds which results in many regrettable issues. They then decide no one should keep birds. Their attitude is, if they cannot succeed, no one can.
I can understand that seeing birds in small cages lined up like jail cells would make one associate bird breeding with puppy mills. Yet, the majority of bird breeders that I know have large flights, clean environments and furnish environmental enrichment for their birds. When the birds are too old to reproduce, they are still loved, stay with the breeder where they live out their natural lives in congenial retirement.
Many of the rescue facilities are run by inexperienced people. When I see some of the lovely photographs of what they consider to be an adequate environment, I also see many dangers to the birds. Sadly some rescues/sanctuaries are run by hoarders and the facilities are often crowded and I suspect dirty. The photographs never show the floors or the bottom of the cages. I have talked to some of these rescuers and I have found it frustrating that they are unwilling to seek proper medical care for some of their birds. Although they have the money for other things, that I consider luxuries. They have no idea how to deal with behavioral issues. They label a bird as not being adoptable, due to the birds behavior. They have given up on the bird. The bird is branded as "Bad Bird" and the behavior is allowed to continue and is actually enabled. These birds are never permitted the opportunity for happiness. A well trained bird is a happy bird. I hope that as you continue to do more research, that you look into all aspect of parrot keeping. Research the rescues and not just breeders.
Susan, Here is the response to your question as to who I heard the info from. I heard it from Connie, Director of Operations at the SPCA. So I think you will agree...a credible source. I was awaiting an e-mail confirmation from her before I responded back and here it is:
"Hi, Yes, we always get them in. I work with the Avian Veterinarians in the community to place them as well as Safe-haven bird rescue. Safe-Haven is not taking any in because they are overwhelmed however, Kristy will help me out when I am desperate for homes.
We recently placed a bird with Busch Gardens, Very rare but this bird was very intelligent and continued to get in trouble due to behavior issues. We asked for help as I knew I could not place this bird in a home environment. People just don’t realize how smart these guys are!
I was so happy they took him ,,, He will have a good life there .. He has a job :)
Some were adopted through the SPCA, we do adopt the smaller ones out when we can .
Does that help? I am sure we have placed over 100 birds this year alone."
There were many questions that I think were answered very well by readers in regards to how breeders care for their pets. I don't think I need to go back and rehash everything that has been posted. I appreciate those in the bird community weighing in on the issues.
I was sent an e-mail about a protest of a 'bird mill' that sells bird through a pet store in New Jersey...BUT, I AM NOT ENDORSING THAT I KNOW ANYTHING MORE ABOUT THAT SITUATION!!! I understand everything you all are telling me...really! I know it can be a fine line between a 'rescue' versus a 'hoarder' versus a 'sanctuary.' Bad breeders versus good breeders (in ALL pet industries). All of the points brought up through out all the posts are very valid.
Again, I am reading up on these issues. I will post future articles on proper bird care, etc.
Thank you.
Jessica
You should investigate the group that is organizing the protest and their history with the pet shop. They allowed people to post to their website that Dr. Irene Pepperburg killed her famous African Grey, Alex, so she could write a book and make money. They certainly lack credibility.
Jessica:
As you can see, there are many passionate people out here. Kashmir gives lots and lots of time helping owners with their birds on email lists, Judith does the same. As Kash says, education is the key to all of it.
Please do not take the word of the New York Bird Club people. Go and look at their site and you will see that they protest the horse drawn carriages in Central Park in NY as well as good bird stores. They have also attacked a well know avian vet, a well known behaviorist as well as Dr. Pepperberg. They have an agenda that is not compatible with having birds in our homes.
Thank you again for listening.
Kashmir: I have a parrot sanctuary and have no issues keeping my birds healthy and happy, I spend a huge amount of money on avian vet care, expensive foods, supplements and toys. My birds are not caged and are free flighted unless handicapped. I am one person that thinks people should not have birds, they are far too complex and a great deal of work. A huge amount of time and patience is a necessary factor in keeping birds happy and fulfilled, if that's possible. So, again, people should not have birds, and it is not due to failure of caring for them properly in my instance, it is recognizing that it is purely selfish to want to keep one, and they just deserve better than the average person can give. I can afford to give them a great deal, but most cannot. I succeed very well, thank you,those who do not, give up many of their birds to me, shelters, general public, so on and so forth. There are quite a few so called rescues out there that should be shut down, imo FFF is one of them and I wouldn't be alone on that one. Oasis, Foster Parrots, Gabriel Foundation and many other reputable rescues are however, great facilities and do a wonderful job taking care of these magnificent birds.
I am passionate about all animals but especially birds because imo, they are so incredibly misunderstood. It's a life sentence to be kept in a cage, and because they live so long, they suffer more. Just don't get a bird people.
August, have you inspected all the facilities that you have mentioned and actually seen if they are clean and the birds well cared for? I do not agree that *all* the places that you listed are good. I certainly have questions about one of them. However, I do like the Gabriella Foundation. I also do not agree that the average person who has researched parrots before making a decision to give a parrot a home is so incompetent that they incapable of giving the bird a proper home. The people who buy the birds as decoration or on impulse are another story. The people who have done some reading and research before getting a bird may be untrained and naive despite their efforts. However, if given the proper instruction they can learn how to give their parrot a good home and live in harmony with birds. Why do you assume that only people who rescue birds can provide them with a good home? I am a certified parrot behavioral consultant. I work with problem parrots every day. I have seen birds that bite, scream and are driving their human companions crazy, turn into happy, well behaved birds and maintain their home. Yet, not all birds that I work with bite and scream, some are not eating a healthy diet and the people who have them are concerned enough to contact an consultant to rectify the situation. Most people who get a parrot do want to live in harmony with their bird. They just do not know how and are often using methods that are no longer even acceptable for dogs much less birds. It is all they know. So some of us try to help them. Once taught a better way they come around very quickly and I am mean both human and birds. I have seen way too many sanctuaries solicit for birds, especially rare and expensive birds. This is in no way reassuring.
As the article states, yes there are parrot mills. Many of the rescue organizations are getting overwhelmed with requests to take birds in, especially in this economy; remember, they can live the same lifespan as a human being and can be quite expensive to care for over time. Then you have breeders, reputable or not, who simply DON’T CARE. The birds are money-makers. They don’t see loving creatures who are suffering, they see $$$ when they look at their birds.
One thing I feel this article fails to do is expose the number of middle-aged birds who are given up for adoption and analyze those numbers with the number of young birds being sold by breeders and stores. People don’t want “old birds” they want young ones... which is rather unfortunate for those 20-something year old birds out there ending up at the shelters for nothing other than living too long.
Yes, not every sanctuary is equal. I know of at least one mentioned in a few posts below mine that is “in bed” with the breeders – they will sell adopt birds out to breeders and working against the overall message other sanctuaries are trying to convey; “What would be best for parrots is if they never became pets.” Others are people’s personal excuses to horde these animals, never adopting out regardless of what’s best for their birds.
And one last thing – the illegal bird trade is alive and well throughout many parts of the world. Visit Indonesia or South America if you want a true wake-up call. For many impoverished villages in these “third world” countries, this is one of the only options they have to earn a living. Fortunately there are parrot welfare organizations out there trying to change this as well.
I suggest to everyone who posted a comment on here to actually research what they think they know as truth before criticizing someone who speaks they opposite of their beliefs. Overall, I enjoyed the article – keep up the good work!
Brian, Reputable breeders do care. That is one of the criteria for being a reputable breeder. If they don't see all birds as suffering it is because, not *all* birds are suffering. Happy birds are not news worthy. If breeders refuse to sell to people who are unqualified in proper parrot care, then they see much more than money. The majority of breeders I know are very picky about who gets one of their babies. Money only comes into play when trying to determine if the prospective owner has the resources to give the bird a good home.
I do agree that most people want young birds for pets. However, I know many people who would rather have older birds. Although, it is possible for birds to live a long time the average large parrot only lives to be about 15 years old. My information is from the veterinary text book Avian Medicine Principles and Applications.
As far as the illegal bird trade is concerned, I have been to South America. Although,I have spent time in Asia I have not been to South East Asia. I traveled in the Brazilian Highland in the state of Piaui. My trip was arranged by Dr. Charles Munn III and I went to his Bio Brazil site. I also spent time in the Pantanal with the Blue Macaw Project, putting up nest boxes, repairing damaged nest sites and counting birds. Then I went to the Lymington Foundation in Sao Paulo. Where they breed birds that have been confiscated by the Brazilian Government to reintroduce to the wild. I saw no evidence of trapping in the wild. The rangers in Piaui were former trappers. The Lymington Foundation was not over crowded. I have talked to numerous biologist that work with birds in the wild. All of them are conservationist. No one denies that there is a wild bird trade. However, the numbers have been drastically reduce in the past 20 years. Photographs that we see today, depicting trapped birds are mostly very old pictures taken before the WBCA. Most of the wild birds are not smuggled into the US or EU any more. Why should they be when people can buy tamed captive bred birds? Smuggled birds are likely to be shipped to Asia. The decline in the wild population is now due to man moving into the lands that parrots naturally inhabit. A new problem seems to be in parrot body parts being sold in Asia and Africa.
I agree that everyone who posted a comment actually researches and knows the truth. I do know most of the people who have posted and they do know the truth.
Jessica, I just talked with Connie, Director of Operations for Tampa Bay SPCA. She confirmed the information you reported regarding the SPCA. The birds are not shown on the web-site because SPCA prefers to place them with local veterinarians or rescue groups who in turn find homes for them. The reason for this is that they don't want birds bounced around from home to home, also that when the bird is adopted it will be permanent. They don't want the birds to be resold or going to breeders. The SPCA currently has an Amazon, no Macaws, Cockatoos or African Greys. Safe-Haven no longer takes in birds, they became overwhelmed and couldn't take care of any more birds.
I am conflicted about this, I aree that the bird should be given the best possible chance for a pemanent home but if the general public knew about these birds would they go to the SPCA or shelter instead of buying from a breeder? My local SPCA is 22 miles north of the Tampa Bay SPCA and they rarely receive birds. They have some cockatiels which are kept on the premises and not up for adoption.
Susan
Hi Susan,
Thank you for pointing out that I didn't make up my information as you so kindly insinuated in your postings. I do my best to provide accurate information and don't 'make up' any info I report.
I responded to your post in regards to telling you who my 'source' was...if you look back about 7 posts you will see the response from Connie herself.
I think it is safe to say that everyone will have their own opinion over these matters, and you can't tell someone how they feel is wrong regardless of how you feel.
I am meeting with one of the people who posted a comment next week; She has been kind enough to let me meet some of her birds, hear her side of the story, and will be doing an interview.
If anyone else wants to take part in an interview, please contact me at my e-mail address. I don't know how many articles I plan on doing on the issues, but I am willing to get a few sides of the bird industry.
I feel that the people that keep posting back and forth, should just 'agree to disagree' at this point, or contact me if they want their points brought up through an interview.
Thanks.
Jessica
Brian:
First, I would love to know your definition of a "bird mill". Is it any breeder who sells their chicks to anyone or is it truly bad places what do not take care of their birds?
The continued bashing of breeders of any kind is just not reasonable.
If you are refering to the one and only sanctuary that was mentioned here, I would hope you can back up your accusations. If it is the one you are speaking of, yes, they do work with breeders. They do not sell birds, they adopt them out. There were some birds sent to a breeder in FL for foster care and that person graciously built them their own aviary and space on her property and takes care of them. These birds were sent there by a court order at the request of the owners. They are still the property of the people who owned them, by court order, and could not be sold by the sanctuary. The sanctuary only worked to help find a good place for the birds while the owners work to get their lives back together. Facts are the facts.
I do know that a couple of the education programs through sanctuaries/rescues use local breeders in their education programs, who better to help educate the public.
As for the message that "birds should not be pets" I agree that it would be best if they were never pets, however, they are and now it is time to deal with the issues through education of the general public. Make sure that people know what they are getting into and make sure that they have the support they need to keep birds. Do not just tell people that they are wrong for keeping birds and using guilt tactics to get them to give birds up.
I happen to have many friends who have older birds. Some even have birds with medical issues. I personally have a U2 who is probably in his teens at least, if not older. My first bird was in her 20s when I got her. I would love to know where you get your information as to the ages of birds being given to shelters? To hear you and others, it is a FLOOD of birds and to be honest, while there are more dogs, cats and birds being given up, I do not see a FLOOD of birds.
Many rescues make their living off the back of birds and the more birds you can get for free, the more money you can ask for. Donations are given for the care of birds and spent on computers, cars and even on eco vacations in South America under the guise of "studying birds in nature". No vetting for the birds, feed them donated food and do not put them in cages, not because it is better for them, but because the rescue does not want to buy decent cages. OH and it is best that no one has contact with the birds on a regular basis so that they will become wild and unadoptable. That way you do not have to adopt any birds out. Some of the people who have rescues live better than many of the breeders I know.
I often wonder, if people are so adament about birds not belonging in homes, why do they have birds in their homes? I have birds in my home because I love them. My birds would not do well in a sanctuary living "as a bird" because they love human touch as much as I love touching them.
The assertion in the article left the empression that wild caught birds were still being brought into the US. Is there still poaching and exportation going on? Yep, but not into the US, at least not legally.
Bonnie
Jessica, I didn't see a post from Connie, only the one where you quoted her. That prompted me to call back after my initial call when the SPCA stated that they had no birds, that what you had stated was incorrect. I am confused and concerned about the SPCA's policy rearding birds. It makes more sense (IMO) having the birds in the SPCA, including them in all the newspaper, TV and radio features (which they do regularly for cats & dogs) and thoroughly vetting applicants. If birds are being relinquished to the SPCA and the regular staff are unaware of their existence how do they expect to find them homes? The SPCA has a better chance of raising public awareness than a handful of small sanctuaries that are mostly unknown.
Well Susan, nothing I wrote was incorrect in quoting what Connie said about 15 birds being turned in last month...so I'm not sure what you mean that what I stated was incorrect. I also said the birds were placed in other situations (meaning they were not currently at the SPCA). I'm sure Connie is well aware of what is best for her shelter, so I don't think you have the right to say what the SPCA should be doing. Connie does a great job running the shelter and it's operations. I'm sure she gives the birds to proper organizations because she doesn't want people who don't know anything about birds to adopt them out.
Jessica, you are very wrong when you told Susan, “I don't think you have the right to say what the SPCA should be doing.” She has every right and so do all the rest of us. Not only is it a right it is our responsibility. Whenever anyone claims to rescue an animal, they are obligated to provide that animal with the best care and the best hope of a good life. We must hold them to the highest of standards, not minimum or average standards. They must set an example.
You say that Connie is doing a great job and I am sure that you think so. However, why should the rest of us agree? We do not know her and we have not seen any photographs or videos. All indications are that she is not doing a great job. From what your have said, birds are being taken in without other shelter employee’s knowledge. We do not know what standards are set for the places they are taken. The birds are not given the opportunity to go to a home. The rational for this is that people do not know how to care for birds. Yet, what I am seeing is that the shelter is the one lacking in knowledge in how to evaluate the applicants, so they are passing this off to someone else. I actually think that it is very smart, to know your limitations. However, how do we know that the experts the birds are going to are indeed experts? What are their qualifications? How many parrot seminars do they attend in a year? Not club meeting, actual seminars. Do they have a board certified avian veterinarian on call? Do they have a back up veterinarian? What are their quarantine procedures? What types of environmental enrichment do they provide? Are they qualified to deal with behavioral issues? How many full time and part time people do they have working for them verses the number of birds? Do they have an emergency evacuation plan? What happens to the birds if the person in charge of the rescue dies or for some reason can no longer care for the birds? Please do not think I am being harsh. I ask these same questions of breeders. Yet, breeders do not make or imply any kind of promise, even if they should. A rescue or sanctuary has an implied promise that the birds will receive the best care possible, especially when they take in dearly beloved pets that the owners can no longer care for and keep or monetary donations.
You may be unaware that there was once an effort to certify rescues and sanctuaries that failed. It was excellent program. Two inspectors checked each facility. They not only inspected for proper care, they also checked all the books for accuracy. They included knowledgeable people who did rescue work, avian veterinarians, behavioral consultants and lawyers. However, the rescues were often uncooperative. There were places that cleaned up for certification and then slid back into filthy dungeons after inspection and the inspectors did not have the funds to recheck frequently enough. After their failure, another group got together and certified themselves. However, I have seen no standards for certification and it has little value to me as someone who would consider making a donation.
Kashmir, I know my comments sound harsh, but there is more to this story than you know. If you wish to know why I said that, please e-mail me.
Jessica, let me clarify: The first time I called Tampa Bay SPCA I was told that the information you posted was incorrect. Here is what I wrote
"I talked with Danielle at Tampa Bay SPCA and she was very surprised to learn that 15 parrots were surrendered last month. I read out the statement made by Jessica Whitehouse in the Examiner, she conferred with a colleage and stated they were unaware of 15 parrots being surrendered last month and that it was strange for someone to have made that statement. Danielle said they currently have one parakeet for adoption and said "its slow this time of year". I asked you to name your source, which you did. I then called your source, Connie, and she confirmed the story you wrote, so I posted the comments she made to me.
Again, I see no post directly from Connie.
In a past post you stated: "Okay, I will be the first one to admit, I am NO SELF CLAIMED BIRD EXPERT" and "Sometimes the ‘animal rights’ girl in me comes out, and for that I agree, I should have investigated my story better and looked at both sides. But I am not a close minded person some of you are making me out to be".
Now you're saying "Connie is well aware of what is best for her shelter, so I don't think you have the right to say what the SPCA should be doing."
So, you have suddenly evolved from "NO SELF CLAIMED BIRD EXPERT" to knowing that Connie is doing the right thing. What is the basis for that statement? Why don't I have the right to say what the SPCA should be doing? Don't they solicit the general public for funding? If birds are being shuffled off to overcrowded rescues without the opportunity for a loving, forever home, that's a good thing? Sorry, I don't agree. You also stated "I'm sure she gives the birds to proper organizations because she doesn't want people who don't know anything about birds to adopt them out". Are you, in effect, saying that Connie doesn't know enough to successfully place birds?
Thanks everyone. I think I've had all I can take of this for the moment. If I didn't want to hear your comments, I could have deleted them, but I am happy to listen to things people say. Going back and forth in this negative manner is not going to get anywhere. I will no longer post any additional comments. Thanks!
Jessica, I believe Connie was Director of Operations in 2006 when Lynn Andrew's birds were illegally seized by the SPCA. Since I cannot post a url why don't you google "SPCA and Lynn Andrews Pinellas" Here's how SPCA cared for the birds:
"Testimony was presented to show that some of the birds were injured during the raid and transport to the SPCA facility and that other birds later became ill while in the custody of the SPCA due to their care. During the raid, cages and nest boxes were overturned, fertile eggs were destroyed, and baby birds suffocated in their overturned nest boxes.
Testimony was presented that SPCA personnel had virtually no knowledge of the proper care and maintenance of exotic birds, that they fed the birds unsuitable food,that they were unfamiliar with bird diseases, and that they used improper cleaning methods for the birds, eg they used bleach to disinfect their bird holding area and
fumes from the bleach damaged the birds' sensitive respiratory systems.
On December 13, 2006, Judge Dorothy Vaccaro ruled on the Petition to Grant
Ownership of Confiscated Animals on each and every animal, (101 birds, two dogs,two turtles, and rabbit) in Lynn's favor and dismissed the SPCA's petition and denied the SPCA's request that Lynn never be allowed to ever own animals again,and ordered the birds and other animals returned to Lynn".
In addition the SPCA removed ID bands and mixed the birds up, some of the original breeeder cages were missing and groups of 4-5 cocketiels were placed in small finch cages, the cages had not been cleaned in several days. Pairs of yellow-faced cockatiels were missing! Breeding pairs, nest boxes and birds gone! As to the SPCA releasing the birds, the Director said she didn't want to turn them over and it took a Police Officer to let her know that she would be charged with Grand Theft if she did not hand the birds over. Lynn never got all her birds, it is alleged the SPCA had injected some birds with steroids resulting in birth defects in later hatches. And to top it all off, SPCA demanded $6,000 for the care of the birds while in their custody.
Jessica, I had started preparing my previous post well prior to your last post. Its unfortunate that you have categorized the ongoing discussion as a negative exchange. Is that because you are unable to defend your position? I could have said your report was negative, but I asked questions because I wanted to discover the truth. All I can find is that one person in one shelter has stated that many birds were being relinquished. I can't find any evidence yet to support that but I will keep looking. All I did find is that the person you are relying on for this information is possibly the same person
who has not acted in the best interest of birds.
Hi everyone! I hope you will take a moment and read my other article titled 'This is for the Birds.' Thanks!
Jessica
Hi, Jessica. I see you've ruffled more than a few feathers, but that's a good thing. Pro-bird breeders are telling you to check your sources, but you also need to take their arguments with a grain of salt, as well. The frequent claim of animal industry and its apologists that HSUS opposes ALL pet ownership is patently false. Thie statement on companion animals can be found here www.humanesociety.org/about/policy_statements/statement_companion_animal.... Further, the NAIA, a group one poster recommended, was founded to protect the financial interests of people who breed, sell, or otherwise profit from the use of animals. They count puppy millers and furriers among their ranks.
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