They're exquisitely beautiful, some of them sing like little angels and they can be as intelligent as a five-year-old child.
It's no wonder exotic birds make popular pets, yet the misunderstandings about what it means to care for these half-wild animals are what keep rescue organizations filled to capacity all over North America.
"People will get a bird thinking it's easy, when, in fact, they find if it's not being cared for properly, it is not a very easy little creature to share your home with," said Jan Robson, a volunteer education coordinator with Grayhaven Exotic Bird Sanctuary, which takes in more than 200 birds every year in the Lower Mainland.
Though she has formed a bond with her five rescued birds, Robson said she recognizes that her lovebirds, budgie and parrot would not be for everyone.
Every day, Robson spends an hour-and-a-half cleaning up after her flock. They're also noisy, and some types of birds are also very feisty and will nip. Even if a bird is quiet and affectionate and its owner doesn't mind taking the time required to care for it, they have a life span that far exceeds those of the average pet. Parrots, in particular, can live decades, some of them into their 70s.
"This is a bird you're willing to your kids, kind of thing," Robson said, noting African Gray parrots live 50 years, on average.
To help raise funds for and awareness about both the sanctuary and the Parrot Resource Centre, the two non-profits have teamed up to host a fundraiser at The Columbia Theatre in New Westminster this month.
An evening of unusual comedy acts is set for May 24 at 7 p.m.
Headliners include hypnotist and "mind master" Scott Christie, who offers a family-friendly performance, as well as Rod Boss, a comedic magician who has been touring his close-up magic around the world for more than 30 years. The evening will also include a 50/50 raffle and silent auction with more than 40 items, featuring a framed limited edition fine art print by Canadian artist Stefanja Dumanowski.
The fundraiser will help both organizations continue educating the public about parrot care and welfare and will also provide funds for emergency veterinary care and other expenses.
Grayhaven has a temporary location in Tsawwassen, as well as numerous volunteers in the Lower Mainland who foster birds that are waiting for adoption.
For those willing to learn about exotic birds, having a feathered friend can be very satisfying, especially if it comes from a rescue organization, Robson noted.
"You're looking at a little creature who has got an incredible amount on the ball, can be incredibly affectionate, and (have) very individual personalities," she said. "They've got all of the things that dogs have in terms of the ability to interact with you and can be in a smaller package."
Tickets for the Amazing Comedy Hypnosis Show are $25 plus tax and fees, available online at www.thecolum bia.ca. To reserve tickets, or for more information, call 604522-4500. The theatre is located at 530 Columbia St.
