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Rehoming Your Bird: How to Find a Good Home For Your Pet Bird?

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    This guide will help you understand the dos and don’t of rehoming your bird if you want to give them away due to some reason.

    Rehoming a bird is never the first thing anyone wants. However, certain situations or emergencies can lead to it.

    Whether you’re moving to a different place or simply cannot deal with an aggressive bird anymore, or you just can’t keep your bird anymore and want to drop it off to a rescue that will care for it, giving up a bird can be stressful.

    Unfortunately, parrots are one of the most rehomed pets. Their long life and specific requirements mean that a parrot sees 4 to 5 homes on an average, over its lifetime.

    So if you are looking to surrender your bird, please know that you are not alone. We get this question very often. First of all, start by forgiving yourself and make sure that you do right by the bird.

    Rehoming Your Bird

    How to Give Up a Bird That You Can No Longer Keep?

    When giving up a bird that you can no longer keep, you will have to decide on a few things. some of them are:

    Documentation and History

    Gather all the documentation with you. Write out its past history (or all the information that you have). The new home will need all the details that you can give them about your bird for a successful transition.

    Past history is especially handy when training a parrot. While parrots can be trained without knowing about their past experiences, but if you can give those details to the new owner, you will give them a headstart.

    Cage, Food, Toys and Other Accessories

    Gather all the belongings of your bird and prepare them to be given away. You might want to give the cage a good clean before sending off your bird.

    Giving the new owner everything that your bird had will increase its chances of success in the new home. While your parrot will be unfamiliar with the surroundings, it can take comfort in the familiar cage, food, toys etc.

    Rehoming Fee

    This is a tough one. You have to decide whether you are going to charge a rehoming fee for your bird or not.

    There are two camps to this.

    Proponents of having a rehoming fee argue that they have spent a lot of money bringing their bird and raising it and they are entitled to make some money when giving it away. Moreover, if the new owner can’t afford to pay a rehoming fee, will they have the financial means to take good care of your bird?

    Those against paying a rehoming fee argue that they are giving a loving and caring home to a (problem?) bird. They do not want to also spend money upfront to “buy” a bird.

    Having run beautyofbirds.com for more than two decades now, we have seen good and bad examples on both sides of this debate.

    We recommend that you decide on a minimal rehoming fee. Depending on the bird, the amount should be low enough that serious rescues and good homes are not deterred by it. And if you find a good person to take over your pet parrot, please do not hesitate to waive off the rehoming fee. Please do not treat your bird as a commodity to be sold and profited off.

    Where Can You Take Your Unwanted Pet Bird?

    Most people are not aware of the right way to surrender their bird and often opt to place their pets in private homes with others.

    However, you can find many rescue centers, wildlife sanctuaries, and aviculture societies that might take in your bird and provide it with the necessary rehabilitative care!

    We have listed many of the ones that you might want to try at the end of this article.

    Local Bird Rescues

    Local bird rescues or rehabilitation centers take care of injured or disabled birds.

    In cases where the owner has passed away or cannot look after a particular bird anymore, they can also take in these birds and offer them an intermediate home.

    Depending on the bird, they may give it up for adoption to better-suited customers.

    You can find your local rescue centers by simply searching for them online or asking your avian veterinarian.

    For the United States, you can also use websites like Avian Welfare, or Humane Society to find nearby options.

    These organizations help direct you to the right place; they do not adopt birds.

    Local rescue centers may or may not be accredited to larger rescue institutions.

    However, they do provide the necessary care and resources needed and have handlers specializing in most wild birds in the area.

    You can also contact them in case you find a sick or abandoned bird. For serious cases, smaller rescues will try to shift the bird to a place with more facilities.

    The goal of rescue centers is always to try everything possible to rehome or save the bird before looking for other options.

    What To Look For in a Good Bird Rescue?

    Exotic birds have become valuable commodities.

    They are, therefore, frequently targeted by unscrupulous people whose focus is not on the welfare of birds, but for whom they represent a means of making a living. Proper care would cut into profit margins.

    Birds in the care of these self-proclaimed “rescuers” suffer from emotional and physical neglect.

    If you are set on rehoming your bird, here are some things to keep in mind:

    Type of organization

    Most rescue centers will be non-profit organizations, and this is a good way to find trusted rescue centers.

    However, many non-profit status centers also exist that provide exemplary care, though they might be more expensive.

    Either way, make sure you do enough research and, if possible, visit the premises to check the upkeep of various birds.

    The best place you can send off your beloved pet to is a good local bird rescue organization

    For non-profit organizations, it’s best to ask for a financial statement or at least get some information about their directors and sponsors.

    Ideally, rescue groups do not refuse to take in birds. If they do not have handlers for a specific species, they will refer you to other agencies.

    If a center refuses to take in your bird based on its size or species, it could be that they are simply looking for exotic species to sell and benefit from.

    Under all circumstances, please avoid “Bird Storage Facilities”.

    One rescuer described himself as a “prison guard” and he hit the nail right on the head – that is exactly what he is. The devastating aspect of it all is that the only “crime” these birds have committed was being born in captivity.

    At the end of this post, we have listed some bird rescues. You might want to contact some of them that are closest to you to discuss the adoption of your bird.

    Information about your bird

    Any good rescue center or sanctuary will require information about your bird before taking it in.

    So you need to take your bird’s certificates and health reports for them to take over. If they spot signs of abuse, they might intervene and take the bird under their care directly.

    They will also quarantine your bird for some amount of time (irrespective of its health) to prevent any potential transmission.

    Care and maintenance

    If it is possible to visit the premises, take a look at how various species have been homed.

    A good rescue center will care for every species’ individual needs and provide them with the type of diet, exercise, and space they need.

    They will not breed the birds and clean the cages and exercise areas regularly. You can also take a look at their adoption contracts, as discussed next.

    Bird rescues never ask for money to take in your bird – its the first sign you should look for

    Adoption Process

    If a bird is healthy enough to be handled by an untrained handler, then the center may put the bird up for adoption.

    Adopters can pay a nominal fee for this, which mainly covers the cost of their treatment and medical checkups.

    No additional “adoption” costs are levied by non-profit organizations.

    An exorbitant adoption fee is usually a red flag and can be a front for a breeding center. Some centers may conduct pet adoption drives.

    Either way, a good Rescue center will have a clause in its contract that allows for retrieval in case the bird is being mistreated.

    They also provide post-adoption bird care and resources to the new adopters. 

    All potential adopters will be screened to check if they can provide proper long-term care to the bird.

    We have added a list of local bird rescue organizations as an addendum to this article.

    Warning Signals of a Fake Bird Rescue

    Unfortunately, many people see exotic birds as a valuable commodity and run their “rescue” as a pure business venture. We would clump these under “fake” rescues.

    They like to get a bird for free or minimal cost, hardly spend anything to care for it and then sell it for a neat profit.

    Exotic birds having become expensive has encouraged these “fake” rescues to mushroom.

    When you are out looking for a good rescue for your bird, you will almost certainly stumble upon fake ones. Here are some quick tips to quickly separate the wheat from the chaff and identify a fake rescue.

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      Lack of access to potential adoptee birds

      Reputable rescues allow public access to the animals or the sanctuary for at least part of the day. Real rescue organizations have, or should have, nothing to hide.

      They will allow the public access to at least view the birds. It may be through windows, as some are justifiably concerned about pathogens being carried into the bird areas or people stealing birds.

      This being said, when precautions are taken, these risks can be minimized — and the birds most certainly would benefit from extra socialization by the visiting public.

      Lack of concern for disease control

      New birds should not be introduced into the existing flock of rescued birds, but they should be quarantined and vet tested for diseases. Inquire about their policies with regard to quarantining and vet-testing birds.

      If you take your bird in and find that they allow you and your bird immediate access to a room with other birds, you would be better off taking your bird back home, as such reckless neglect will increase your bird’s chances of catching a deadly disease.

      Picky about the species they rescue.

      Real rescue organizations rescue ANY birds — not just the valuable ones. In digging further, you may find that many rescue organizations will only accept expensive, sometimes also referred to as “endangered”, species.

      When you see that, it is an excellent indicator of a rescue organization with a hidden agenda. The fact is that any bird in peril deserves love, care and protection – not only those that hold the most monetary value.

      If the rescue organization that you are considering placing your bird with or donating to has such exclusions or restrictions – we hope you will reconsider. “Selective rescuing” belies what a rescue should be all about.

      Lack of a proper physical address

      Registered non-profit rescue organizations should list a physical address. After all, they are funded through public donations and the public has every right to know the physical address of this rescue organization.

      On the other hand, organizations that are not registered as a non-profit shouldn’t be raising public funds or donations.

      As private individuals, they have every right to either publish or not publish their address. Although, if they present themselves as a rescue organization and they don’t provide you with their address, we would be very suspicious.

      Just a P.O. box for an address

      Not very frequent, but you might come across a rescue that will just provide a PO box for an address.

      We spoke to three such organizations and all of them said that it was because of the security of their birds that they do not provide a physical address.

      Now, we understand that exotic bird theft is real but our point is that when setting up a rescue organization, initial funding should go to securing the facilities. Security concerns shouldn’t be an excuse not to provide physical addresses of donation-funded rescue operations.

      One reason for listing P.O. boxes rather than physical addresses is that they don’t want the public to see the facilities and/or the way the birds are set up and cared for. They don’t want that because they know the public wouldn’t approve of the conditions the animals are kept in.

      Coming back to the three organizations just mentioning their P.O. boxes, further inquiries among popular Facebook groups revealed that the rescues were run by unscrupulous people, looking to make a quick buck with little to no concern for the birds in their care.

      How to Give Up a Bird for Adoption?

      Apart from rescue centers, you can consider some alternative areas of adoption, such as:

      Local Aviculture Societies

      Aviculture societies basically practice the safe breeding and keeping of wild or domestic species of birds in captivity.

      They are run by bird enthusiasts who study these birds and help with the propagation of threatened species.

      If you have an exotic bird, giving it up here is a great option, as you can be assured your bird will be among the people who love it.

      Societies maintain standards when it comes to providing varied diets, clean and specious cages, and enough exercise.

      Simply contact the nearest society and go over the process with them. Ideally, there should not be a fee for giving up your bird.

      However, you do need to hand over all adoption and medical documents.

      Aviculture societies might be able to help out if you have an exotic pet.

      Check With Your Avian Vet

      If you cannot find any sources nearby, give your regular avian vet a call.

      Even though they themselves cannot take in your bird, they will be able to direct you toward appropriate sources.

      They can also perform a check and let you know if your bird might perform better with expert handler care or a non-trained handler.

      Abused birds might need rehabilitation and behavioral issues care before being rehomed.

      Asking Friends and Family

      The easiest option to find a new caretaker is to simply ask your near and dear ones.

      However, it should be something you consider only after exhausting the above options.

      Your relatives may not necessarily know how to best take care of the bird.

      Moreover, as the handover happens without any official documentation, if you do know that your bird is mistreated, there might not be a proper way to recover it.

      Listing Your Bird for Adoption Online/Paper Ads

      This is usually the last option suggested if you cannot find a suitable animal shelter.

      There is no way to verify the level of care someone can provide, or even if they’re simply looking to find an exotic species to breed or sell at a higher rate.

      Many birds have fallen prey to abuse in this manner.

      A potential way of weeding out non-serious candidates can be to keep a high adoption fee to ensure only those who can afford long-term care opt in.

      Or you can try to find someone who has previous experience with handling that species. We will look into this in detail later.

      Selecting a Potential Adopter: What to Look Out For?

      Here’s how the adoption process would be for a good rescue organization or society:

      • The center will ask for information about the bird or animal – regarding its age, health care, adoption date, and overall diseases.
      • They will perform an initial checkup on your bird. If you do choose to hand over your bird, they will keep it in quarantine for some time.
      • Finally, your bird will be slowly introduced to others of its type, if any.
      • They will be given a spacious area to live in and subjected to a schedule befitting their natural clock. This can include intellectual exercises, physical exercises, flight time, and social time.
      • They will also be fed a healthy and varied diet, and slowly wean your bird off junk or high-fat items (if it was previously fed this too much).
      • This treatment method is what sets rescue organizations apart. These centers focus more on providing the bird the care it needs rather than aligning its schedule to what resources are already available.
      • Centers do not breed the birds (unless it is an exotic species and they have obtained specific permissions for it) and do not rent or let them be adopted by potential breeders.
      • Based on your bird’s habits, they may either choose to:
        • Keep the bird in the center forever. This is especially the case for abused birds that have developed certain behavior, making them unfit for regular human handling.
        • Setting the bird up for adoption after initial rehabilitation care.
      • If the rescue center does decide to let the bird out for adoption, it will have a proper screening and adoption process in place. This includes a screening of potential participants and having contract clauses to allow for retrieval from abused homes.

      Private Adoptions: Do’s and Dont’s

      Here’s what to look for in a potential private adopter:

      • Someone who is a prior bird owner or is an existing owner with a species can be a companion pet for your bird.
      • A new-time owner who is willing to listen to your bird’s needs and honor your requests about care and maintenance.
      • Avoid people with pets like cats or ferrets.
      • It’s best to find someone who has their own space instead of a renter. Many landlords do not allow pets in their clauses.
      • Also, ensure that their home is spacious enough to allow for exercise and a large cage area.
      • Someone who is aware of the lifespan of birds. Many birds have long lifespans (e.g., African grey parrots can live up to 50 years), requiring cross-generational care.
      • A person who has the appropriate long-term income means to take off your bird. Avian vet bills can get pretty big, and if someone sulks at a high adoption fee, it could be a sign that they might not give your bird the care it needs.
      • Try to get references about the adopter. If possible, engage professional verification services to check out their background credentials.
      • Try to keep your visiting options open. Include these and other possible clauses (such as contract void in case of abuse) in your contract, and make sure you find someone who is comfortable with signing a legally binding paper.
      • Here are a few other pointers which you can keep an eye for, though they might not always point to a better adopter:
        • Someone with a settled and planned life, instead of frequent travelers or people with immediate life changes ahead of them (e.g., weddings, children).
        • A person who will involve all members of their family (or home) in caring for the bird. A bird cannot thrive on interaction with a single person.
        • Someone who has a long-term stable job that does not require too much movement or trips (e.g., military personnel).

      There are a couple of things that you should always avoid – people posing as businessmen or bird breeders.

      Generally, these are unscrupulous persons looking to make money off of the bird.

      Another set of people never to offer your bird to are hoarders. 

      These aren’t active seekers of birds, but they just love having them around and, over time, have become the recipients of many birds from donors.

      Such people are unable to provide the right and proper care for an individual bird.

      How To Prepare Your Pet For Rehoming?

      Rehoming can be stressful for your bird. Most birds get used to a routine and their owners. Anxiety can cause your bird to suffer from loss of feathers and generally poor health.

      To make the process smoother for your bird, you can consider these steps:

      • Create a good profile for your pet. Take some nice pics of them in their natural environment – happy and healthy, playing with humans and enjoying time.
      • Create a social media presence for the bird – it helps potential adopters learn more about them and view their videos and pics.
      • While offering them up for rehoming, try to also donate as many of their familiar items as possible. This can include – their favorite brand of food, toys, sleeping branches, cages, etc.
      • Since your bird will need some time to get used to the new house and person, it is best to provide them with a safe area they can hang out. Let the adopter know about their original routine so that they can follow it as much as possible.
      • Match up on all their pending health treatments, vaccines, etc. Do not abandon your pet (this is illegal in many places) or give up a sick bird to someone unfamiliar with their entire medical history. This puts them at a disadvantage in providing the right treatment.
      • Rehoming can last anywhere from a week to many months. Be patient and be prepared to screen adopters. Let your bird also get used to unfamiliar faces.
      • Try to meet the entire family adopting the bird instead of just a single individual. Before adopting, introduce the person to your bird and let them build a bond.

      Create a nice profile pic for your bird and a social media page to get more people interested in taking them home

      Frequently Asked Questions

      What do I do if I can’t take care of my bird anymore?

      If you are unable to take care of a bird for some reason, it is best to look for a good place to rehome it.
      We discussed some of the options in the article, such as bird adoption centers, aviculture societies, friends and family, your avian vet, and lastly, adoption listings.
      Among these, the best option is clearly to go to a good bird adoption center. Of course, you should go through the long checklist of things we have suggested to check out before deciding on which one.

      How long does it take for a bird to get used to its new home?

      It usually takes several days to weeks for a bird to get accustomed to its new home, especially if they have been rehomed.
      Different species of birds adjust differently, and some may take longer than others.
      In the beginning, it is important to provide plenty of positive reinforcement such as perches, hiding spots, and frequent treats in order for the bird to learn that it is safe and welcome in its new surroundings.
      Additionally, it would also be helpful for the new owners to establish a routine with the bird in order for them to feel comfortable and safe.
      The previous owner can help with this process by sharing the old routine and what kind of toys, foods, and other things the bird likes.

      Can my bird find its way home?

      While it is possible for a bird to find its way home, it is usually very unlikely.
      Some birds possess a strong homing instinct and are able to return home after being released far away from their nest.
      However, many factors can affect how well they do this, such as unfamiliar terrain, changes in climate, and weather that can disorient them.
      The length of time they have been away from their home area is also a factor.
      Additionally, if a bird was moved to an entirely new location at an adult age, it is highly unlikely that the bird will be able to find its way home.

      Where should I place a birdhouse?

      Keep your bird cage at a height from where it can see the activity around the house.
      Moreover, it should be placed at a point that does not have direct sunlight or a draft from an open window.
      Make sure that the room has the right temperature and humidity.
      Kitchens can often have fumes and gases that are toxic to many birds. So make sure to keep your bird as far away from the kitchen as possible.

      Wrap Up

      We hope that these guidelines help you find the best option for your pet. For a docile, trained bird, you can consider leaving them with a truster adopter after the screening.

      However, for a traumatized or aggressive bird, it’s best to find an experienced handler who can train them to be better. Rescue centers and shelters are best for injured birds that you might come across.

      Thank you for reading.

      List of Bird Rescue Organizations

      We have added the below rescue organization in good faith, but we would recommend that anyone wanting to place their bird check any of them out very carefully before doing so … 

      NOTE: These listings are added and maintained by Avianweb as a public service. Even though we don’t actively research the rescue organizations wishing to be listed — we do reserve the right to remove any rescue organization about which credible negative information has come to light (which usually is mistreatment, neglect, breeding or selling of “rescued birds” for profit).

      United States Rescue Organizations

      Arizona:

      Stop Bird Biting!

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        Maricopa, Arizona 85138

        E-mail: Info@Tha-amazon.com 

        Tel. (480) 382-9167 / Contact:  C Jackson

        Sedona, Arizona: 

        Bird rescue operated by a local Buddhist community: www.garudaaviary.org

        www.the-oasis.org – The Oasis Sanctuary Foundation, Sybille Erden

        Arkansas:

        James Ireland  DVM, MD – Veterinarian and MD in the Little Rock area in Arkansas.  

        His organization takes in birds whose owners’ life situation has changed to the point of needing to place their birds in new homes.  They also provide help to enable people to be able to keep their birds if circumstances permit.  

        Contact.  Jamesdireland@hotmail.com

        e-mail: Rescue@ParrotMedics.org, (501) 443-2407

        Flight For Flight Parrot Rescue – 501c3 non-profit parrot rescue – Tulsa, Oklahoma: 

        Rehabilitator and educator about parrots. Cover the states of Oklahoma, Kansas, Arkansas, Texas and Missouri. Website: http://www.fight4flightparrotrescue.com – Email: fight4flightparrotrescue@yahoo.com PH. #’s 918-283-1264 / 918-845-7745 / 918-633-7257

        California:

        PEAC (Parrot Education and Adoption Center): 

        Address: PO Box 600423, San Diego, CA 92160 – Phone (619) 287-8200; e-mail: parroted@peac.org

        The Association for Parrot C.A.R.E. – video and website @ www.parrotcare.org – Mailing Address: Association for Parrot C.A.R.E., PO Box 84042, Los Angeles, CA 90073, Phone: 661-245-3111 / toll-free: 866-parrotcare (727-7682) – Contact: Lorin Lindner, PhD – Email: doclindner@parrotcare.org

        Parrot Rehabilitation Society P.O. Box 620213, San Diego, CA 92102-0213, e-mail: prsorg@yahoo.com, (619) 224-6712

        Finest Feathers Bird Sancturay wildoneswelcomed@gmail.com Finest Feathers is based in Lake Elsinore, CA and has a second location in El Cajon, Ca. Accept all birds, except those that by law should be given to the wildlife rehab department. They are not a medical facility, so they cannot take in those needing urgent verterinay care.

        Association of Avian Rescue Organizations, 3370 Beech Street

        Coventry Companion Bird Survival Center, Kelly and Larry Mullins, e-mail: coventry@qworld.net, P.O. Box 491731, Redding, California 96049, (530) 378-1355

        Mickaboo Companion Bird Rescue, PO Box 697, San Jose. CA., 95106-0697 Phone: (650) 301-6521, www.mickaboo.org, Executive Director/Tammy Azzaro, e-mail: mail@mickaboo.org

        Bat Rescue – batrescue.org

        Colorado:

        Feathered Family, – featheredfamily.com – Erie CO, Rescue, Rehoming and Adoption of Companion Parrots

        www.thegabrielfoundation.org – The Gabriel Foundation, 1025 Acoma St. Denver, CO 80204 Phone: (303) 629-5900 Fax: (303) 629-5901

        District of Columbia:

        e-mail: rescuemeavian@yahoo.com – Rescue Me Avian Sanctuary, District of Columbia

        Florida:

        Naples: Gulf Coast Butterflies – Rescues lories specifically. Please contact: Ken Werner, Naples, FL. Tel. 239-353-9492 – email. nekrenrew@aol.com

        Homestead: Regina and Marshall Cassell, Wings of Love; 26300 SW 227th Ave, Homestead, Fl 33031, (305) 246-LOVE; Fax (305) 247-9493, e-mail: wolf33031@aol.com

        Melbourne Avian Rescue Sanctuary, a Florida parrot rescue organization. 418 Ocean Avenue, Melbourne Beach, FL 32951 – http://www.marsparrots.org/

        Avian Haven Exotic Parrot Rescue Inc. 148 Brookfall Dr. St. Augustine FL 32092 – N/A

        Georgia:

        http://www.parroteducationproject.org – a Georgia State Charitable organization, a non profit corporation with 501c status pending. Contact: Elle Mott

        Our Feathered Angels:  Does not sell, trade, buy or breed birds. Provides education (including scheduled school and elderly care visits) and information about parrot ownership, care, and behavior. Offers a home to parrots whose families can no longer care for. Assists those looking for health care or rescue information – Contact: Tina Collett 151 Quail Place NE Milledgeville, GA., 31061 Tel. 478-295-0386

        Dee’s Haven Bird Rescue – Donna L. Kristosik 

        Hawaii:

        Maui Animal Rescue and Sanctuary, 315 Pauwela, Hiki, HI 96705, (808) 575-7698, cujo@wedtv.net

        Illinois:

        RescueTheBirds.org – Licensed by the Illinois Department of Agriculture, Bureau of Animal Welfare as a Rescue Facility, Accredited by the Association of Avian Rescue Organizations

        Indiana:

        Greenwood, Indiana – Exotic Parrot Rescue and Sanctuary – e-mail: ExParrotSanc@Live.com. Tel.317-883-9175. Contact Misty D. Sheetz, Website: http://N/A

        Iowa:

        Ann Wykowski – South East Iowa Parrot Rescue; 3554 270th. Avenue, Keokuk, IA 52632 – Tel. 319 670-0067

        Iowa Parrot Rescue and Rehabilitation – Tel.   (319-726-3707) or email IAparrotrescue@aol.com

        Animal Aid and Education Clinton, IA 52732 Tel. 563-242-1890, rescue@theornatefeather.com, http://N/A, Sindy Hampton

        Kansas:

        www.beaknwings.org – a licensed shelter for the State of Kansas involved in rescue and adoptions.

        Flight For Flight Parrot Rescue – 501c3 non-profit parrot rescue – Tulsa, Oklahoma: Rehabilitator and educator about parrots. Cover the states of Oklahoma, Kansas, Arkansas, Texas and Missouri.  Email: fight4flightparrotrescue@yahoo.com PH. #’s 918-283-1264 / 918-845-7745 / 918-633-7257

        Beak N Wings – a 501(c)(3) non-profit charitable organization located in Kansas City. Take in homeless, unwanted or abused parrots, “rehabilitate” them, and find them good, permanent, loving homes – http://www.beaknwings.org – For more information call: 913 322-3398 or e-mail: admin@beaknwings.org  

        Kentucky:

        Northern Kentucky Parrot Rescue – A foster home for birds of all ages and species. Non-profit 501© – Contact: Regina Daily – Tel. (859) 359-5211 for placement or information please e-mail: Gina.daily@insightbb.com – Independence, Ky. 41051  

        Maryland:

        We Are Loved Bird Rescue and Education Organization, Frederick, MD – Tel.: 240-439-7403, e-mail: we_r_loved@comcast.net

        Parrot Rescue, P.O. Box 645 Savage, MD 20763, e-mail: deethom@erols.com

        Massachusetts:

        FosterParrots, P.O. Box 650, Rockland, MA 02370, e-mailk: Marc@fosterparrots.com

        Avian Rescue Association, Box 241, Greenfield, MA 01302, e-mail: aramacaw@rescueteam.com

        Michigan:

        Peace Paws and PALS (Parrot Assisted Living Services) is located in Lansing MI and we take in birds of all sizes.  They are 501(c)3 tax exempt, and offer indoor free flight for both large and small birds.  Website is listed below, none of the birds are adopted out once they arrive at our sanctuary, but some are used in our parrot therapy programs.  Feel free to inquire about any further questions. Jessy Owens, Peace Paws,www.petfinder.com Preventing Exotic and Avian Cruelty Everywhere.

        Minnesota:

        Stop Bird Biting!

        Download our free e-book:

        Why Does My Bird Bite and What To Do About It

          Midwest Avian Adoption and Rescue Service, Inc, P.O. Box 821, Stillwater, MN 55082, Eileen McCarthy, CEO, (651) 275-0568, (651) 275-0457, e-mail: birds@maars.org

          Missouri:

          Dr. Julie Burge, Avian Vet – Burge Bird Services and Burge Bird Rescue, 13833 S 71 Hwy, Grandview MO 64030 – Tel. 816-356-4700, BurgeBirdServices.homestead.com

          St. Louis Avian Rescue – STAR – P O Box 732 Manchester, MO 63011 – email at staravianrescue@gmail.com – Voice Mail Box – 314 995-6233 – An all-volunteer 501(c)(3) rescue and adoption group formed in 2002, to help homeless birds in the St. Louis metropolitan area. Volunteers foster a variety of bird species, with the eventual goal of placement in forever homes. Also strive to educate and instruct the public in not only the care of companion birds, but in the appreciation of wild birds as well. Contact: Pam Walsh St. Louis Avian Rescue – STAR

          Springfield, Missoury: Parrot Education, Adoption, and Rehabilitation (PEAR) serves as a temporary sanctuary facility for exotic birds. Contact: Erin Sorensen- www.peartree-sanctuary.org – a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. Rescue, rehabilitate, and adopt out relinquished parrots. Offer parrot owners education and assistance with basic bird care, nutrition, and behavior issues.

          IIRBS, Inc, Chillicothe MO 64601 … Rehabilitate and rehome rescued and surrendered parrots and exotic birds. Permanent sanctuary is also given to certain parrots upon request under certain circumstances. email: iirbsinc@aol.com and phone is 660-707-5472. Stephanie Barclay, Director

          Flight For Flight Parrot Rescue – 501c3 non-profit parrot rescue – Tulsa, Oklahoma: Rehabilitator and educator about parrots. Cover the states of Oklahoma, Kansas, Arkansas, Texas and Missouri. – Email: fight4flightparrotrescue@yahoo.com PH. #’s 918-283-1264 / 918-845-7745 / 918-633-7257

          Montana:

          Montana’s Parrot and Exotic Bird Sanctuary – mpebs.com

          Nebraska:

          Bellevue, NE – Nebraska Parrot Rescue – Tel. (402) 350-9923

          Safe Haven Avian Refuge, R.R.2, Box 73A, Fremont, NE 68025-7938, e-mail: bughouse@tvsonline.net

          New Jersey:

          Under My Wing Avian Refuge – Paula N Ashfield – 1243 Rte 23 North Wantage, New Jersey 07461 Te. 973-702-7770 

          A Helping Wing – a 501c3 non for profit rescue. Contact info : PO Box 259 Blairstown, NJ 07825 Phone 845.475.8249, Contact: Jeanne Gilligan 

          New York:

          Northeast Avian Rescue,13 Couse Place, East Greenbush, NY 12061 – Rescue/Adoption hotline (518) 708-6091 Rescue/Adoption contacts: Robert Lewis: bob@ringobirds.com (518) 209-4056, Lauren Palmateer: lmcguire1@nycap.rr.com. Do adopt out and will accept any parrot. Have three foster locations and are willing to provide both fostered and facilitated adoptions depending on the surrenderer’s needs. Serving Eastern New York and adjoining states.

          Long Island, NY: Specialize in birds with medical/physical/emotional problems that are difficult to place. Also work with bird owners who would like to try to keep the birds and encourage them to try to work things out. Contact: HomeTweet@aol.com – Tel. 631-896-2913.

          Long Island Parrot Society (LIPS), Rescue and Rehabilitation of Lost, Unwanted or Abused Parrots, (631) 957-1100, Beeper (516) 9-RESCUE, e-mail: lipsgeneral@liparrotsociety.org  

          Oklahoma:

          Tulsa Ok – Safaris zoo – a private zoo outside Broken Arrow, Ok….Lori, the owner and founder, is on a local tv station at least once a month with animals and parrots promoting awareness of the responsibility of ownership of exotic pets. She will take in smaller birds, but calls me to help her find a home for them. She can be reached at 918-955-1964 or at ladysafari@valornet.com.

          Ohio:

          Parrot Education and Adoption Center – Cleveland PO Box 38325 Olmsted Falls, OH 44138 – e-mail: clevelandpeac@yahoo.com  

          Oregon:

          Exotic Bird Rescue of Oregon, PO Box 14863, Portland, OR 97293 or email ebr@rescuebird.com

          Macaw Landing Foundation, P.O. Box 17364, Portland, Oregon 97217, Phone: (503) 286-0882, e-mail: mlf@cnnw.net

          Stephanie Tillitt, Stephanie’s Feathered Family Exotic Bird Rescue, N/A – 360-896-3588 Home, 360-601-9778 Cell  

          Pennsylvania:

          Jojo The Grey Adoption and Rescue for Birds – a 501c3. – contact: margaret@jojothegrey.org – Margaret Ouali – Tel. 610-713-0331

          Changez Bird Rescue, Phone: 610-231-0654 or 610-440-2148

          PEARL (Parrot Education Adoption Rehoming League), P.O. Box 18022, Pittsburgh PA 15236.  Ph.412.692.1024 email:  pearl.parrots [at] gmail.com

          Pyrenean Aerie Exotic Bird Rescue, email: Jeffpyr@aol.com

          Lair Of Dragons Bird Rescue and Sanctuary located in Lancaster, Pennsylvania 717-431-8599. An exotic bird rescue 7 sanctuary dedicated to preserving the welfare of companion parrots. Adoptions, rehabilitation, medical and sanctuary home for birds whom can not be adopted out do to aggression, behavioral or medical problems. e-mail: contact@lairofdragonsbirdrescue.com. Have strict policies and require a contract to be signed. Absolutley no breeding, selling, giving away or using any bird for entertainment purposes.

          Joel Burtner – although not an official rescue – is happy to guide frustrated bird owners in resolving behavioral issues. If needed, he will also give a good home to a needy bird. He is located 30 minutes north of Philadelphia, PA – but will drive as far as upper Michigan. Contact: JL Burtner HT- sickrunescaper [at] yahoo.com

          Rhode Island:

          Rhode Island Parrot Rescue, email: riparrot [at] gmail dot com; 2141 W Shore Rd. Warwick, RI 02889

          South Carolina:

          For Wildife Rescue, please contact these organizations: Hotline: (803) 772-3994 or http://www.wildlife-rehab.com/

          South Dakota:

          Black Hills Parrot Welfare and Education Center – 11132 Valley 1 Rd. Belle Fourche, SD 57717  (605) 892-2336 – Managed by Greg and Cindy Poulain – certified avian specialists (recommended by Stacey Raisanen)

          Tennessee:

          Caged Bird Rescue, 911 Thompson Road, Pegram, TN 37143, e-mail: rruso1@bellsouth.net

          Texas:

          Wings of Love Bird Haven, Inc. – a 501c3 nonprofit bird rescue facility that takes in parrots (conure sized and larger) – Located in Red Oak Tx. Also do adoptions.  Contact email is info@bird-haven.org

          Flight For Flight Parrot Rescue – 501c3 non-profit parrot rescue – Tulsa, Oklahoma: Rehabilitator and educator about parrots. Cover the states of Oklahoma, Kansas, Arkansas, Texas and Missouri.  – Email: fight4flightparrotrescue@yahoo.com PH. #’s 918-283-1264 / 918-845-7745 / 918-633-7257

          Utah:

          Wasatch Avian Education Society, 801-424-2589, waes@juno.com, – located in Salt Lake City, Utah 84165 

          Virginia:

          Safe House, Inc: Companion Bird Rehab and Retirement Center. P.O. Box 3252, Newport News, VA 23603, Phone: (757) 887-8683, Fax: (757) 220-1390

          Rescue Me, An Avian Sanctuary, Post Office Box 534, Ark, VA 23003, (804) 693-5997, Fax (804) 695-9475, e-mail: Rescuemeinfo@aol.com

          Washington:

          Good Fox Birdie Haven – Email : goodfoxbirdiehaven@yahoo.com – A 501(c)3 non-profit rescue/rehab and adoption shelter providing temporary and permanent housing for domestic exotic birds, located in Algona Washington. Have worked with local police and Animal control to aid in rescues. Help in emergency situations available: Tel. 253- 333-0766. FB: Good Fox Birdie Haven. Executive Director(s) Dave and Sharon Fox

          Shelton and Mason Co. Parrot Rescue (SMCPR) – All sizes, species, special needs, behavioral problems, etc. Emergency placement available. Shelton, WA 98584 (360) 229-3976  – Echo VanderWal, Founder

          Cockatoo Creek Jane Johnson, 209 Black Creek Rd, Montesano, Wa 98563

          International Rescue Organizations:

          UK:

          The Budgie Sanctuary – a budgie sanctuary for unwanted and neglected budgies.

          e-mail: thebudgiesanctuary@yahoo.co.uk

          Parrot Line, 65 Boardman Fold Road, Alkrington, Middleton, Manchester, M24 1QD, England, e-mail: webmaster@parrotline.demon.co.uk

          Canada:

          GreyHaven Exotic Bird Sanctionary, 800-15355 24th Ave., Surrey B.C V4A 2H9, (604) 878-7212, e-mail: bluuey@telus.net

          The Netherlands:

          Foundation Dutch Parrot Refuge, Stichting N.O.P., Wintelresedijk 51, 5507 PP Veldhoven, The Netherlands, Tel.: 040-2052772, Fax.: 040-2052723, e-mail: nop@iaehv.nl

          Also please check in your local phone directory. I know that, for example, in San Diego, California, they have an excellent Parrot Rescue Organization that places birds in carefully screened homes. Your area may also offer this kind of non-profit organization.

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