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.
.jpg)
