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Beak N Wings has done so much for me and my husband. My husband was
reluctant to handle our Cockatiel and Love Bird and since we've become members,
he's not only handling them but also our African Grey. We've learned so much
about our birds' health, nutritional, housing and social needs. There is always
someone in the club that can answer your questions or guide you to the correct
expert for whatever the issue may be.
We were chosen by the adoption committee to be the lucky adoptive parents
of our lovely African Grey girl, who is the love of our lives.
Without the
club's support and guidance, our first days with our new girl would not have
been as easy as they were.
Dan & Julie
After my cockatiel died I wasn't sure of the best place
to find a new bird or if I really had the heart to get another. I knew I'd
never be able to find one just like him. My vet told me about Beak n Wings so I
checked out the website and was able to read descriptions of birds that were
ready to be adopted. I decided to attend the Bird Expo and was able to see
those birds (and many others) in person. I wasn't prepared to take one at that
time but found myself purchasing a cage and taking home the last bird that
hadn't yet been adopted. I continued to check out the website for other
information and was intrigued about a bird named "Waldo". I was also able to
check him out by visiting his "foster home". I said "Hi Waldo", he said "Good
Morning". I bought a cage on the spot and he also went home with me that day. I
always thought it was best to get a younger bird and also was leery because my
(deceased) bird had been so affectionate and could talk and imitate
many sounds. It really opened my eyes because I've learned it's true they
all have their own different personalities. I will admit one is not too
affectionate - doesn't care to be scratched but he will often come over and
"allow" me to let him sit on my lap. They have picked up a few words and do
things like hop, walk backwards. They are a constant source of entertainment
and I have no regrets. If anyone has any doubts about adoption, I would tell
them to visit a foster home or attend the next bird expo. That way they can meet
them in person to bet a better feel to see they would be compatible. They have
nothing to lose. I saw many birds I thought would make wonderful pets.
I have had several birds and read many bird books over
the years so I thought I knew quite a bit about their care. But I have learned
so much more since joining Beak n Wings. I love to receive the newsletters
because I learn something new with each one. How to react when birds exhibit
certain behaviors was very helpful and especially learning about so many things
that can be harmful to birds that I had never read or heard of before. The web
is a very useful tool. You can ask the vet questions and normally get quick
response and where else could you learn that there are "bird diaper flight
suits"!!!!
Fay Lambie
In the fall of 2000, I read about a bird fair at Benjamin Ranch in KCMO. I
called my sister who also had birds and we went. It was wonderful to see
an entire event dedicated just to birds. I found a membership application
and some older newsletters and thought it would nice to get the newsletters
and see what else is going on.
That was 6 years ago. Since that
time, my family of pets has increased as well as my family has changed
in general. I can't express the number of wonderful people I have met in
and through the club. Beak N Wings and it's members have become part of my
family. The meetings allow us all time to get together, swap stories and
even educate each other through our own experiences.
I recommend
anyone who has birds to join their local bird club. The information you get
will keep you informed and will give you and your bird companions the
most, up to date information to keep your birds healthy and
happy.
Melissa Newalis
I never had birds, ever, until I met my wonderful husband, David. At that
time (5 years ago) he had only a fledgling Jardine, named Simon. He's now
our precocious 5 year old, bursting with personality, and a constant joy. I
love Classical music and opera; within a month or so, this little guy was
WHISTLING the first bars of 'Fur Elise'! And only when he saw me; or wanted
my attention. He knew it was sure-fire!
We next rescued Yo-Yo, 20 years
old. He'd been abused; yet within a year or so, he was wanting his chest
rubbed, and emitting 'baby sounds' when I did so. His vocabulary is broad,
and constantly enlarging. He seems to be particularly fond of me; and
whenever I speak, will immediately 'join in', replicating exactly-if not the
words I say-the tonality and inflection of my speech. Since I am originally
a New Yorker, and Italian, what comes out of him is a gibber-gabber which is
excited, very fast, and always intense. I refuse to believe, however,
that I really 'sound like that' when I laugh (but that's probably more
my denial than Yo-Yo's inexactitude).
Finally, almost a year ago, we
adopted Harley, a blue-fronted Macaw. He's five, too, and in contrast to
our other 2 boys, has eyes only for my husband, David. Yes, yes: he likes
me; but he adores David. He talks and talks, of course: but the greatest
surprise to us is how loving he is. He wants nothing more every evening
than his 'private time' with David. Out of his cage David takes him; then
the two of them sit together on the couch, playing and roughhousing. Since
Harley is a 5 year old boy, he likes to be active and engage in the back and
forth one sees fathers engage in with their little boys. At first I felt
that this was 'too rough' for Harley-but that's just the normal 'girl
thing', because Harley absolutely loves every second.
Changed our
life? Oh yes! I've rescued dogs for years, and we have
three now. I've
always known what treasures they are, but the birds are a constant unfolding
to me. I often thank my husband for bringing them into my life. And I also
thank God, because to me one of the greatest proofs of His love for us is
His creation of these wonderful creatures; and giving them to us as our
devoted children. After a few hours of Cable News, we find it essential to
turn to our animals, because they remind us of the innocence and good there
is in this world. They have, as you know, an inexhaustible fund of
sweetness and...purity, if I may so express it, in them. And they dispense
this to us, daily.
Thank you, Beak n Wings, for always being there-at the
clubs, on the phone, and website, whenever we have a question about how to
better understand and care for our 'bird babies'. We're really glad you
don't charge!
Sincerely, Kathy and David Brown
I never thought about taking my birds out anywhere. I always thought it would
be too much for them and they would be nervous in public. Since I joined Beak N
Wings, I've accompanied senior and newer members to Petco, the City Market, the
Flower Lawn & Garden Show, etc. It's been the most wonderful kindergarten
for my birds. They love it, especially the City Market, which I'm convinced
they think is a bird carnival. They get to check out the other birds and the
people passing by. Of course, as senior members of the club will tell you,
your bird's wings must be trimmed properly prior to taking them
outside. Yes, it's great for your birds, but it's also wonderful for
the people. You get to meet and great the public and best of all, you get to
talk and talk and talk about your little feathered babies! It's one of the best
bird learning experiences I've had and I'm so glad Beak N Wings does this type
of educational program.
Julie
One cold spring morning not so long ago, I talked my husband into going to a bird expo and sale with friends who had just acquired a small green parrot. My husband was less than enthusiastic because he did not like pet birds, especially large birds capable of big bites! That day, we both learned a lot about companion birds by visiting with vendors, breeders and talking with members of Beak 'n Wings (B'nW) at their information table. We walked away that day with a club brochure, other informative info, a strong desire to know more and a sincere invitation to visit a club meeting.
Within a few days after reading all the information, we visited a monthly club meeting where we were made to feel welcome by several members who willingly answered all of our questions regarding what species of companion bird would make the best addition to our family. After much conversation and more reading we made the decision to join Beak 'n Wings and added not one but two maroon-belly conures to our family. We have never regretted either decision.
We continue to be amazed at the level of expertise members are willing to share with other members and the public, about the joys and efforts involved in being a bird owner! We've seen the number of members grow steadily as B'nW continues its efforts to educate the public through informational booths at area events like the Home and Garden Show, Earth Day celebrations, local festivals, etc. We have fun with our own birds, enjoy fellowship with other members and continue to learn about our feathered pets, as we take part in these activities.
If you are at all interested in companion birds, joining a bird club like B'nW will enrich your life. We've learned enough to really enjoy our pets and take good care of them, had fun and made new friends as a result of joining B'nW - join us!
Eric and Cheriè
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