REHABILITATE RESCUED EXOTIC BIRDS

Exotic birds throughout the world are in trouble. Not only are their native habitats being destroyed at an alarming rate, but parrots, parakeets, lovebirds, cockatoos, macaws, lorys, conures, cockatiels and other exotic birds are frequently snatched from the few habitats that remain and shipped around the globe for sale as pets.

The statistics on the exotic bird trade are grim:

• Eighty percent of exotic birds caught in the wild die during capture and transport.
• Of the millions of exotic birds bred in captivity each year, only a small minority survive the grueling trip from breeder to retailer.
• The average captive bird lives her whole life in solitary confinement in a cage that is too small, according to In Defense of Animals. She has never flown, and she has no toys or companions for mental stimulation. She is also fed an inadequate diet, and gets handed off to multiple homes or multiple breeders before finally dying a premature death.

Exotic birds are beautiful and highly intelligent, but the fact is that most of them—even those bred in captivity — are still essentially wild. They tend to be extremely noisy, and they require complex social interactions with other birds in order to be happy. Living in captivity causes them enormous stress and makes them more susceptible to medical and behavioral problems.

The result is that their needs often overwhelm even the best-intentioned caretakers. When that happens, they get sold, given away, set free in an inhospitable climate or doomed to a life of suffering through neglect or abuse. It's not uncommon for exotic pet birds to be beaten, kept in a dark closet to inhibit their noise, or starved to death. Broken bones and internal injuries are frequently found in those exotic birds that are "lucky" enough to eventually find their way to rescue organizations.

It's a particularly tragic fate for these tropical birds that can have life spans of 50 years or more.

Most humane organizations are opposed to the keeping of exotic birds and other exotic pets, and many states and countries have begun to outlaw their import from the wild. But until the multibillion-dollar exotic animal trade is stopped altogether, avian rescue groups will need the help of volunteers like you to help rescue and rehabilitate these beautiful but hapless victims.

• Lend a Hand: There are many exotic bird rescue groups throughout the world; several of the best ones are accredited and listed by The Association of Sanctuaries. The Tucson Avian Rescue and Adoption Foundation also offers a regional list of exotic bird rescue groups throughout the world, as does Avian Rescue Online. Most of these exotic bird rescue groups welcome volunteers for assistance with tasks such as:

• Caring for and socializing birds — most offer training until you feel comfortable working with the birds yourself
• Special events, publicity, education or fundraising — much of this work can be done remotely
• Inspecting the homes of prospective adopters to make sure they're suitable for an exotic bird

• Provide a Temporary Home: Most avian rescue groups depend on foster care to maintain adoptable birds until a permanent home can be found.
• Adopt a Bird: Once you've gained some experience with exotic birds, you may want to make your home a permanent one — bearing in mind that the commitment will last a lifetime.

However you choose to help, a few hours of your time can help transform an exotic bird's imprisoned world from black and white back into color again.