Carmen

Carmen recently joined our flock of Peach-faced Lovebirds. Carmen is six years old and when she arrived at another rescue the first part of the year it was obvious that she preferred to have nothing to do with her human caregivers. In her previous situation she was cage bound, a plucker and a chronic egg layer.  Apparently as a chick she had an injury to one leg which left the foot useless. This picture shows sweet Carmen in a weakened state when she arrived at the rescue.

Carmen when she arrived at the rescue.

Carmen was fostered by a wonderful caregiver who improved her diet and allowed her to build her flying skills. She was also able to spend time outdoors during the warm summer days. After being cage bound for so long this provided Carmen with a whole new world to experience. During her time in foster care Carmen’s physical condition improved and she regained the use of her foot. Likely due to the “physical therapy” of flying and landing on various perches and surfaces. Although improved, she still continues to pluck some around the neck and shoulders.

Carmen’s foster-mom contacted The Oasis to inquiry about our Lovebird Aviary and the possibility of Carmen joining the flock. Based on her personality and history we believed that she would truly enjoy being with our flock of 25 Peach-faced Lovebirds. Living in the 16′ x 16′ aviary would allow her to use her new flying skills, give her a bird flock that we new she would enjoy more than a human flock and maybe, Carmen would even find a bird friend that she could form a bond with.

Carmen arrived at the Tucson Airport on September 26th. After a long day of traveling we allowed her to rest indoors overnight and planned a soft release into the aviary over the next couple of days.

Our protocol of a soft release for aviary birds is something we implemented quite some time ago. We allow the new bird to stay in a cage to acclimate to the new surroundings, sights and sounds, and the new flock. The safety of a cage with a food and water source allows the bird to make the transition with very little stress. When we sense that the bird is ready to join the flock we will open the cage door and allow the bird to come out in its own time. Sometimes it is a matter of minutes and the bird is flying to a perch, for others it can take days or even weeks. During this time of transition we leave the cage in the aviary, supplied with food and water, so if a safe place to retreat is needed the bird will have that option.

We have had some birds that have never taken the leap to join the flock. There are many reasons this occurs. In these instances we never force the issue but will find alternative living space where the bird will be more comfortable.

Carmen however, was ready…

Carmen spending her first day in a cage within the aviary. Within minutes of her arrival the flock came down to meet her.

Carmen quickly found the aviary food and water bowls while meeting new friends.

After eating she continued to move around the aviary introducing herself to her new flock.

Today, less than one month after her arrival, Carmen has integrated into the flock successfully. Although she hasn’t found that special friend yet, she is quite social and enjoys interacting with her flock. After many years of poor care and physical problems it is wonderful to see Carmen being a bird and living a more natural life. Success stories like this make our hearts happy.

I thank everyone that contributes to The Oasis. You allow us to continue our care and support of approximately 650 birds that call The Oasis home.