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Why We Do What We Do

Our home had always been a haven for rescued pets with quirky personalities and dogs with soulful eyes that told tales of gratitude. So, when we heard about a parrot in need of a new family, we were both curious and tentative. The story of how we came to adore a creature with feathers was as colorful and unpredictable as the bird itself—a tale of patience, mishaps, and the inaudible language of empathy.

It all started with a visit to a local bird sanctuary. We were "just looking," we said, as we strolled past cages of chirping creatures, each with their unique calls. And there, amidst the symphony of tweets and trills, we found him—an African Grey Parrot, with intelligent eyes and a plume of silver-grey feathers. He bobbed his head as if to say "take me home," but we hesitated. This was to be no small commitment. Parrots are complex creatures with long lives and sharp minds. We left the sanctuary that day, but the image of that parrot stayed with us, tugging at our hearts like an unplayed melody.

The Rescue Decision

After several family discussions that covered topics ranging from diet to parrot-proofing our home, we came to a unanimous yes. We would rescue the African Grey. We learned that her name was Rocky, and she had been rescued from a neglectful situation. The prospect of offering a better life to rocky filled us with a sense of purpose. The sanctuary gave us the green light, and we prepared with all the enthusiasm and anxiety of adoptive parents. While the preparations were underway, Rocky's chapter with his forgotten past was about to close, and a new one with us was about to flutter open.

Bringing Rocky Home

The day we brought Rocky home was memorable. She eyed she new surroundings with understandable apprehension, yet with a certain air of regality that only a parrot can embody. We had set up a spacious cage, but it barely contained she spirit. Over the next few weeks, she would test the waters and push boundaries, seeing if these new humans were worthy of her trust.

Parrots are not merely pets; they are companions, with emotional depth akin to human toddlers. Apollo was no exception. She mourned his previous life in his own way—sometimes with silence, sometimes with a feather-plucking anxiety. But slowly, through consistent interaction and lots of treats, Rocky relented. Her personality began to unfurl like her magnificent wings when he first dared to explore beyond her cage.

Adjusting to Parrot Parenthood

Adjusting to life with a parrot was a steep learning curve. Parrots are intellectual beings that demand engagement. We played music, we read aloud, we learned to mimic her whistles and sought to understand her needs without relying on words. Parrot proofing the house became an ongoing project. Electrical cords were hidden, toxic plants removed, and kitchen fumes were carefully monitored, as the sensitive respiratory system of birds makes them vulnerable to airborne toxins.

Even with all the adjustments, Rocky's presence was a gift. Her was a constant source of fascination—with the way she would tilt her head when pondering a new sound or her amusing attempts to converse using the words he'd picked up. We were learning that to rescue a parrot is not just to save a life but to gain an entirely new perspective on communication and companionship.

Challenges and Triumphs

· One of the first hurdles was Rocky's diet—she was used to seeds, a common but unhealthy staple for captive parrots. We had to wean her onto a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and specially formulated pellets. Her initial skepticism turned into delight as she discovered the joy of fresh foods.

· Another challenge was feather-plucking—a behavior borne of anxiety and past neglect. This required environmental enrichment and companionship. We hung toys in her cage, rotated them to prevent boredom, and ensured that her time out of the cage was interactive and stimulating.

· Socialization was a significant triumph. Rocky initially kept a distance from us, but over time she sought our attention, perched on our shoulders, and even initiated playful games. It was clear we had been accepted into her flock—an honor in the parrot world.

· The joyous milestones didn't come without setbacks—there were bites, squawks of protest, and mysterious moods that we struggled to interpret. But each challenge was a lesson, and with each lesson, our bond grew stronger.

The Language of Empathy

Throughout our journey with Rocky, the most profound outcome was developing an unspoken understanding, a language of empathy. Parrots, we learned, are adept at sensing emotions. It's said that they can reflect the energy around them, and Rocky did just that. Her mood swings were often contiguous with the atmosphere in the house. On hectic days, she was uneasy; when peace reigned, she was content, chattering away or humming to the rhythm of household life.

We began to notice the nuances of her body language—the way she'd fluff his feathers when content, or pin her eyes when excited. We found that quietly sitting with her during her downtimes built trust, and softly speaking to her during anxious moments provided comfort. This intuitive back-and-forth transcended the need for words, proving that empathy is a universal language.

The Everlasting Impact

Having Rocky in our life has been an extraordinary journey of mutual rescue. We set out to save her, to offer her a future, but in many ways, he has saved us. she has taught us about resilience, the intricate beauty of non-human relationships, and the responsibility we bear towards other living creatures.

Rocky influence has extended beyond our family. Friends, initially surprised by her intelligence and charm, have become advocates for bird rescue. She has fostered in all of us a greater appreciation for the depth of connection possible with animals and the profound lessons they have to impart.

In the mosaic of our family's story, Rocky was an irreplaceable feathered addition. Her presence is a daily reminder that patience, understanding, and empathy can bridge the gap between species. She has etched a permanent mark on our hearts, and together, we're flying into a future full of possibilities. We miss you Rocky

By appointment only
We drive to come make sure your house is a great suit for a forever home, depending on the milegage we may charge due to the increase of gas cost.

To contact us For adoption or surrendering parrots through our email or Text LandOfIllinoisParrotRescue@gmail.com

Emergency/Surrendering call
Ashley 309-502-8625

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