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In The Media
Cockatoos are not your average pet
By: Ursula Maxwell-Lewis
Kramer, a 6 year-old Cockatoo adopted five years ago from
Greyhaven Exotic Bird Sanctuary, shows off and prattles away to
anyone within shouting (squawking) distance. His owner, John
MacDonald keeps an affectionate eye on the unfettered showy bird
as 16 year-old Sandy, a female Cockatoo, preens fussily on a
nearby perch.
"These are not your overage pets," says MacDonald. "People buy
them from breeders without realizing that these birds need
company, and often live longer than their owners." MacDonald,
who is opposed to individuals keeping and breeding exotic pets,
adopted the birds from Greyhaven based on the decision that he
would never breed them, and that the welfare of the two birds
would be paramount. "They need company - other cockatoos and
humans - if they have been bred in captivity. Both birds are
kept in the same room. When I'm out I leave the TV on all the
time," he says while Kramer fluffs his feathers and proudly
displays his snow-white gold splashed head crest.
According to MacDonald the birds have a lifespan of 100 years in
the wild and an average of 30 to 50 years in captivity, and cost
thousands of dollars - even to adopt. Canada has an embargo
against importing the birds, and MacDonald would like to see a
law against breeding them. All species of cockatoo are protected
by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species
of Wild Fauna and Flora (also known as CITES), which makes the
import, export and trade in all wild-caught parrots and
cockatoos illegal.
Sandy is a perfect example of bird which was kept alone by
owners who knew nothing about the habits of the species. She is
edgy, easily distressed and her plumage has suffered as a
result. MacDonald treats her with special respect - these birds
can snap your finger in a second with their zygodactyl feet (two
forward toes and two backwards toes) if angered. Neither of the
birds are allowed near strangers, small children or people with
allergies. Both birds are as good as watchdogs!
As for Greyhaven Exotic Bird Sanctuary from which John MacDonald
adopted the birds, it was founded in Surrey in 1998 as a safe
haven for birds who were abused, neglected, abandoned, orphaned,
or their caregiver could no longer look after their bird due to
unforeseen circumstances. The organization started out with six
volunteers and now has over 70. Individuals and families are
encouraged to join the team. The organization is currently
canvassing all areas in the lower mainland for larger premises,
or a small parcel of land since larger facilities are required.
Greyhaven averages 115 successful adoptions per year. Thirty
five foster homes provide quarantine protocols, and palliative
care. Medical costs can easily exceed $10,000 per year and feed
costs are high since the volunteers do not scrimp on providing
the best seed mixes, pellets and treats.
If you would like to know more about the Sanctuary pleas call
604- 878-7212 or visit the website at
www.greyhaven.bc.ca
E-mail:
info@greyhaven.bc.ca |
