I visited the Parrot Refuge in Coombs this afternoon. It was really pleasing to know that the facility has so many signs posted about how parrots do not make good pets. Many reasons were given, not the least of them being that parrots are all capable of giving nasty bites.

The owners of the facility are planning to address the problem of the legal importation of so many wild-caught parrots into Canada. Of course many are brought into the country illegally. Smugglers realize that such stunningly beautiful birds will inevitably have many people who want them and are willing to pay top-dollar. Sadly many owners get rid of them as they are so difficult to handle and care for.

Having a refuge like this is an asset to the community. The enclosures were large and filled with branches and colourful toys for their charges. So much work was being done for injured and self-multilating animals.

I hope that many people will visit and that they will donate generously to keep the place open. It would be a tragedy if expenses cannot be met.