Parrots
Owning a parrot comes with its own set of challenges, and our mission is to provide you with the knowledge and tools to ensure your exotic companion thrives in a safe, healthy, and enriching environment.
Unfortunately, the state of Maine is lacking resources when it comes to parrots, but it is our goal to provide continued education and advocacy.
Siesta Sanctuary
Siesta Sanctuary is a 501(c) parrot rescue and runs exclusively on donations. In 2006 Margaret and Fritz Buschmann founded the non-profit as a home for parrots who have been displaced and need permanency. Siesta's parrots have come to them from rescue organizations, owners moving to nursing homes or apartments, spouses objecting to the bird, birds with problem behaviors that disrupt the home and birds that other folks have rescued but couldn’t keep.
https://www.siestasanctuary.org
Other New England Rescue Organizations
Rhode Island Parrot Rescue
Rhode Island Parrot Rescue is the only 501(c)3 non profit rescue in the state of Rhode Island to focus exclusively on rescuing, rehabilitating, and re-homing exotic birds to qualified homes for adoption. A small, independent rescue, their team of dedicated volunteers provide daily care for each bird in their flock. This includes a well-balanced pelleted diet, fresh water, fruits and vegetables, interaction and training in a clean, safe environment.
Foster Parrots, Ltd. & The New England Exotic Wildlife Sanctuary
Foster Parrots, Ltd. is a non-profit organization dedicated to the rescue and protection of unwanted and abused companion parrots and other displaced captive exotic animals. Working on many levels to bring critical services to birds and animals in transition, they offer life-long sanctuary care for unadoptable parrots and other exotics at their permanent care sanctuary facility, The New England Exotic Wildlife Sanctuary, and provide adoption services for well-socialized parrots who desire human companionship.
Why is enrichment so important?
Parrot enrichment is crucial for several reasons, mostly revolving around the bird's physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Parrots are highly intelligent and social animals, and in captivity, they need mental stimulation and physical activity to prevent boredom, stress, and behavioral problems. Here’s why it matters:
- Mental Stimulation: Parrots are known for their problem-solving skills, memory, and ability to mimic. Without regular mental challenges, they can become bored, which may lead to destructive behaviors (like feather plucking or excessive screaming). Enrichment activities, such as puzzle toys or training exercises, help keep their minds active.
- Physical Exercise: Parrots need space to fly and climb, or at least opportunities for exercise if they are in a smaller enclosure. Physical enrichment, like foraging opportunities, climbing structures, and toys that encourage movement, helps keep them healthy and fit.
- Social Interaction: In the wild, parrots live in flocks, where they engage with other birds constantly. When kept as pets, they often lack this level of social interaction. Regular interaction with their human companions or other birds can fulfill their social needs and reduce loneliness or stress.
- Prevention of Behavior Issues: A lack of enrichment often leads to unwanted behaviors. Without outlets for their energy and curiosity, parrots may resort to screaming, biting, or even self-destructive behaviors. Enrichment helps reduce the likelihood of these issues developing.
- Satisfaction of Natural Instincts: Parrots in the wild are foragers, searching for food and interacting with their environment in complex ways. Providing food puzzles, hidden treats, and other foraging activities allows captive parrots to express these natural instincts, leading to a more fulfilled and happier bird.
- Bonding Opportunity: Engaging in enrichment activities together can also strengthen the bond between a parrot and its owner. Whether it’s teaching tricks, playing games, or simply offering them new toys, these moments can deepen the connection.