Thursday, March 14, 2013

Charlie


It is with a sad heart that we must tell you that Charlie, our sweet little Thick-billed Parrot, passed away on March 10. The reason Charlie died is unknown, but our vets are working hard to figure it out.

Charlie was rescued by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service from a facility where he and three other Thick-Billed Parrots were being held in captivity by individuals dealing in the illegal importation and sale of exotic animals.  They were given for safekeeping to the KAYTEE Products, Inc. company of Chilton, WI, a leading manufacturer of wild and pet bird foods who were deeply involved in bird preservation and habitat conservation.

In October of 1997 Kaytee decided that The World Bird Sanctuary with their free flying flock of Thick-billed Parrots, and our emphasis on education, would be a better venue for these four representatives of this severely endangered species.  So, Charlie and his three friends, Sierra, Sonnora and Guapo were transferred into our care.

Since then Charlie has spent his days visiting schools and other large groups, and spreading the word about his species and the dangers they face from habitat destruction and poaching.  Charlie was a wonderful ambassador for his species.  After all, who could ignore this cute little fellow when he would wave at them and give one of his endearing little head bobs?  He seemed to be certain that if he was cute enough he would earn a peanut--one of his favorite treats.

Charlie will be sorely missed by staff and volunteers alike, as well as the many guests who made it a special point to visit him just to see if they could get him to wave.

Submitted by Gay Schroer, World Bird Sanctuary Volunteer/Photographer 

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