Polly need a home?

<p>Birds are still the third most popular pet in the United States, but their popularity is decreasing. The number of pet birds has dropped significantly over the last few years even as dog and cat numbers continue to climb. Not only are people bypassing birds when choosing a pet, but they are also giving up their current pets. </p><p>Tami Lewis-Benson of Rivertown Feed & Pet Country Store in Petaluma says that people are relinquishing their pet birds at an alarming rate. In the past, most bird-related calls to the store were questions about raising, breeding or buying birds; these days, the majority of callers are hoping to find a new home for a bird. Tami was so concerned by this trend that she created an avian sanctuary at her family’s BarLew Boer Goat Ranch where she provides a permanent home for some of these unwanted birds. </p><p>Mickaboo Companion Bird Rescue currently has over 200 birds in foster homes throughout Northern California. Last year, they were able to take in a total of 450 birds, but requests for help continue to exceed their available resources. </p><p>Why the downward shift in parrot popularity? Ironically, the curiosity, intelligence, and vocal abilities that initially attract people to parrots may be the same things that are causing them to lose their homes. Patricia Blau, a volunteer with Mickaboo Rescue, explains “many people don’t know what they are getting into when they purchase a bird. They are long lived, messy, noisy, destructive, and time consuming.” </p><p>The strong beak of an inquisitive parrot can leave a home’s décor in tatters, and any owner can tell you that birds don’t just vocalize when we want them to. With people living closer together and working longer hours, it is no wonder that normal parrot behaviors are becoming increasingly problematic for their owners. Patty warns that lack of attention is the underlying cause of many bird behavior problems. </p><p>There are still many people that have the time, patience, and understanding to live successfully with pet birds. Cynthia in Sonoma has given two cockatiels from Mickaboo Rescue a wonderful forever home. The first cockatiel, Bug, landed herself in rescue when she alighted atop a boy’s head and her owner couldn’t be found. The second cockatiel, Albert, was found in a garage in the middle of a junk pile. He had no food, and the junk piled on his cage had caved in the roof. When he arrived at Mickaboo, Albert was a shy and worried bird. Thanks to Cynthia’s expert attention, he is now happy to step up on her hand and loves to sing to his friend Bug. </p><p>If you are considering adding a bird to your family, or would like to improve your relationship with the pet bird you already have, Mickaboo Rescue has a wealth of information to offer. They hold free basic bird care classes as well as an advanced bird behavior class. To learn more, check out their website at www.mickaboo.com.</p>