I spent the better part of this evening going through the archives on a parrot forum that I visit regularly. Mainly, I was re-reading some of  the threads I had started looking to other cockatoo owners with whom I could compare notes.  I found myself getting teary eyed.  I feel very fortunate to have made so many friends over the years who thoughtlessly give of themselves when someone has a question or a problem. They are always there for me.

When I was done, I read the comments  following my last post.  I was absolutely floored by the love that you all have for your birds.  By sharing your heart-breaking experiences, you are helping another owner save their birds from a similar fate. I could feel your pain and your passion.

I am always at a loss to explain to non-bird owners the many ways I benefit from having these feathered creatures in my life.  A facebook friend posted a status the other day that said it all: “They are more than just birds to me.  They define my humanity and make me more than just a human.”  Being bird people, I know you understand that.

My  birds have awakened things inside me that I previously wasn’t aware existed.  This eagerness to learn and grow, a willingness to do whatever it takes, the unparalleled joy I feel when I find a way to make that impossible connection.  Owning birds, helping them overcome their fears, anger issues, self destructive behaviors, or just knowing that they have a happy life is more rewarding to me than anything else daily life has to offer.

Thank you for being such conscientious bird parents.  Thank you for taking the time to read this blog to learn how to give the best of care to your parrots.  Thank you for inspiring me to pass along what I have learned over the years.  It’s heartwarming to know how many birds out there have good homes.

Author Patty Jourgensen specializes in avian health, behavior and nutrition and has been working with and caring for rescue birds since 1987.