I just got off the phone this morning with a woman in/near Dublin (Debra Stevens) that is trying to relinquish 2 severe macaws, a male and a female 15 plus years old, not really a bonded pair. Female has "large growth" which she chews off (and it comes back) creating a bloody mess of course. Debra cannot afford vet care. The male which she "hand raised" is intact. She bought the female as her ability to spend time with the male diminished.
Debra has less income and cannot afford to have birds.The 2 birds never really bonded. It took years before they even sat on the same perch. Sounds like they did become buddies however. No mating.The female started plucking herself and later developed a growth on "shoulder area" of wing. She was taken to an avian vet whose name Debra cannot remember ,in Dublin. I was not convinced this was an avian vet. Biopsy was never performed. Anyway, what was done or not done is unclear. The bird was supposed to return for follow up and was never taken back. When female had to be taken to vet for the one and only time (more than 6 mos ago) she went in a carrier. That carrier is still her cage. "She prefers it" Male is in a "large iron cage" that allows him to flap his wings. She does get out for some bathing and they are allowed out of their cages frequently and have "their own room" The birds have remained separated because of the female's wound. Debra's initial reason for calling was that the 2 birds no longer have the comfort of each others physical proximity and Debra has very little time for either of them anymore. The other reason turns out to be that the female needs vet care. She actually was up front about that. She was going to have the female "put to sleep". She found out about mickaboo and called instead. Female "is still friendly"
Female was purchased from Feather Farm by first owner. First owner died. This is her second home.
I forgot to ask about what she feeds them. I sensed a growing defensiveness so I became more supportive and less inquisitive I'm afraid. She sounded tearful towards the end of the conversation. I think I heard her smoking.
I told her someone would be contacting her, maybe me, within a few days to let her know one way or the other. I told her we have to find a foster home first.
virginia
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