As pet bird owners or bird lovers in general, we would like to see better conditions for these magnificent creatures. This desire encompasses both better living conditions for birds in captivity as well as a halt to practices which threaten their native environment and negatively impact the survival of many species in the wild.
There are many organizations that participate in these activities. They run the gamut from local parrot rescue facilities to global conservation groups attempting to halt some of the destructive tendencies of mankind. We’re going to take a look at some of the best of these organizations that you may want to consider gifting with a donation of your time or money.
This list is not meant to be exhaustive, and in all likelihood, you will find that there are some local or regional groups that can use your support. If you or someone you know is considering obtaining a bird, your first option should be your local parrot rescue organizations where you can help give a parrot a second chance and reduce the problem of parrot homelessness.
Parrot and Bird Charities
Here, in no particular order, is a listing of some reputable organizations that are working for the betterment of captive and wild birds and parrots.
World Parrot Trust
This organization is responsible for the encyclopedic parrots.org website which is an indispensable resource for those interested in learning about parrots. According to the parrots.org website, your donations to this group are used to, among other things:
- Assist in wildlife law enforcement efforts.
- Support the conservation and rehabilitation of natural parrot habitat.
- Conduct field research.
- Rescue illegally obtained birds.
- Advocate for better care of companion parrots.
National Parrot Rescue and Preservation Foundation (NPRPF)
The goal of this group is to rescue, rehabilitate, and find new homes for displaced parrots. They train volunteers to help with their rehabilitation efforts and are always looking for suitable homes for their rescued parrots. A yearly Parrot Festival is held for the purpose of fundraising and education.
Humane Society International and local Humane Society Chapters
As the name suggests, this is a global organization. They are dedicated to ensuring the well-being of all animals and that includes captive parrots. They are responsible for supporting parrot rescue operations worldwide and are interested in educating the public about the challenges of owning parrots which then often lead to their abandonment. This is evident in their “Open Letter to Prospective Bird Owners”.
Mickaboo Companion Bird Rescue
California based Mickaboo is committed to helping homeless and neglected birds find homes with loving owners who understand the responsibilities that go along with owning a parrot. They rescue over 400 birds a year and perform community and online outreach to help educate the public about proper care for parrots.
Florida Exotic Bird Sanctuary
Here is a place where abandoned and displaced parrots can find a permanent home. More than 700 birds are in the sanctuary, and they do not adopt out their birds. They provide care for special needs birds and conduct tours of the sanctuary for bird enthusiasts. Volunteers are welcome if you live in the area.
Parrots for Patriots
This unique enterprise connects abandoned parrots with disabled veterans in what is meant to become a mutually satisfying and happy relationship. It is a testament to the emotional bonds that we share with other creatures and a way for individuals, both human and parrot, to attempt to overcome some of the challenges they have faced through their lives.
Defenders of Wildlife
Conservation is the focus of Defenders of Wildlife. They work to protect many different varieties of wildlife, with parrots being one of them. Their concentration is on eliminating the trade in endangered wild birds and shutting down the trade completely. The organization contributes to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) by assisting member countries in developing and maintaining their lists of endangered species.
Feathered Friends Sanctuary and Rescue
Focused on giving homeless parrots a second chance, this sanctuary is located in Wisconsin where they strive to rescue, rehabilitate and re-home abandoned birds. The organization gained some publicity when noted animal rights activist and celebrity Bob Barker became involved and paid off the mortgage on the sanctuary, ensuring the resident parrots of a safe and permanent home.
The Ara Project
This project was started in 1982 with the goal of saving two of Costa Rica’s native macaws. Both the Great Green Macaw and the Scarlet Macaw are threatened with extinction and this project includes efforts to reintroduce captive-bred birds to the wild. They have a need for volunteers, which would definitely be an incredible experience for parrot lovers.
Bird Endowment
Another project trying desperately to turn back the devastating effects of humanity on the avian world is the Bird Endowment. They concentrate their efforts in Bolivia, in an attempt to save the Blue-Throated Macaw. There are only several hundred of these birds, leaving them in a precarious position regarding their survival as a species in the wild.
International Bird Rescue
Saving seabirds from the detrimental effects of their interaction with humans is the primary rationale of this organization. They engage in many different educational and research efforts as they attempt to change behaviors that impact seabirds. They are also involved in emergency responses such as responding to oil spills and assisting local conservation groups to save and rehabilitate affected birds.
Final thoughts
All of the above charities are great organizations. However, there may be a local parrot rescue organization that can use your help, both financially and as a volunteer. It can be a rewarding experience to be exposed to the many different kinds of birds that go through a parrot rescue.
It can also be an eye-opening and determining factor for those who are considering adopting a parrot into their life. You can meet some birds up close and see if you think that they would fit into your lifestyle. Maybe you will even end up bringing one home and giving the attention it deserves.
