By Paula Carlson
Staff Reporter
Feb 23 2007

PHOTO: EVAN SEAL / THE LEADER

As any renter knows, it’s hard to find a place that accepts pets. For Robin Fiorese, finding a new home is particularly challenging. She’s got 35 birds to worry about.

At the end of March, the conures, cockatiels, budgies and lovebirds currently living at Greyhaven Exotic Bird Sanctuary must move. Owners of the Outdoor Garden Depot, who for the past decade have donated 500 sq. ft. of greenhouse space to Greyhaven at 4490 152 St., can no longer accommodate the sanctuary.

“It’s going to be hard on them,” says Fiorese of her feathered friends, who will live in temporary foster homes until a new space can be secured. “Birds get used to a schedule.”

Greyhaven was founded in 1998 to rehabilitate neglected and orphaned exotic birds. The non-profit society survives through donations and fundraising events, and volunteers ensure the birds have fresh food and water and clean cages daily.

Some, like Spook, a 28-year-old Patagonian Conure who has one eye, are permanent residents. But most are up for adoption to suitable homes.

Potential bird owners must be prepared for a big commitment. The birds at Greyhaven are highly intelligent and have life spans of 30 to 50 years.

“But we are there for support for the life of the bird,” says Fiorese, communications director for Greyhaven.

With the recent real estate boom, securing a new space is proving difficult, Fiorese says. Ideally, Greyhaven would need a minimum of 1,000 sq. ft. in Surrey or Delta. A site on a bus route would be preferred, as the educational component of Greyhaven – which is open to the public – is crucial, says Fiorese.

The group can afford to pay about $500 a month, and is able to issue tax-deductible receipts.

Before closing up shop, the sanctuary is hosting its final fundraising garage sale on March 17-18 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Greyhaven (4490 152 St.).

A variety of household goods and used bird cages will be available.