If I’d had a tree house when I was little (which I didn’t – I was way too clumsy to manage to hoist myself up an actual tree) I imagine this is the sign I would have hung on the door.
“For Bird Lovers Only: All Others – KEEP OUT.”
So when I first heard of BirdLoversOnly.org, I guess I kind of imagined a tree house for rescued birds, where they were loved, nursed, fed, and welcomed as the rare and beautiful creatures that they are.
And this is precisely what I found.
Bird Lovers Only’s most famous rescue bird is Snowball, whose dance moves to the Backstreet Boys’ “Rock Your Body” have been witnessed in venues as diverse as scientists’ conventions, morning news shows and David Letterman.
You can read a special post from Irena about Snowball HERE.
Bird Lovers Only serves many purposes in the animal community. They take in unwanted or abandoned domestic birds. They hold bird adoptions to transition these birds into new families where they will be cared for and loved. They participate in research regarding avian intelligence (Snowball frequently participates as well). They assist with conservation efforts. Most importantly, they educate the greater community about the needs and character of birds, with the intent to support new bird owners with being the best birdie mommies and daddies they can be, and to prevent unsuitable owners from ever bringing home a pet bird in the first place.
Owning a bird is not for everyone – especially when to the general public’s mind, a bird is a passive, wild, often unfriendly creature with little need for affection, companionship, snuggling, and family.
As a bird owner myself, I can serve as an eyewitness to the truth that the exact opposite is the case. Imagine the most affectionate kitten or puppy you’ve ever encountered, and then imagine that that kitten or puppy is a pet bird instead. Now you have a great idea of the kind of amazing companion a domestic and hand-fed tame bird can be.
Bird Lovers Only is a non-profit organization that survives on donations from individuals like you and me. Here is their mission statement:
Bird Lovers Only Rescue Service, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) designated not for profit donation-based bird rescue which takes in unwanted, neglected, abused, and special needs birds. We find the most suitable and loving permanent homes for our rescues. Bird Lovers Only Rescue Service, Inc. relies on your charitable support so that we may continue to adopt birds to families such as yours. Donations offset the cost of food, cleaning supplies, vet visits, bird toys, and many other operating expenses.
If you want to donate, you can visit their donation page HERE. They also have lots of cool Snowball fundraising merch, including Snowball’s many records, Snowball’s new BOOK, and Snowball’s Fashion Line, called “Cockatoo Couture”.
Sweet! 🙂
