Moribund Macaw Finds New Hope through Mickaboo

Article from “The Mickaboo Bird Rescue Companion”
Published October, 2024

By Joshua Lee

Mickaboo recently rescued Matthew, a military macaw, who was found unresponsive on the side of a road an inch from death, severely dehydrated. The Good Samaritan who found Matthew brought him immediately to their friend, a veterinarian.  The veterinarian contacted Mickaboo so that Matthew could be brought to an avian specialist for evaluation. Matthew required intensive care for his condition, around-the-clock nursing, and a special diet for parrots recovering from major injury and illness. In the meantime, Mickaboo volunteers searched lost and found postings; however, Matthew’s owner could not be found. Matthew had no leg band and a scanner did not detect a microchip. Now that Matthew is in stable condition, he will be transferred to an experienced foster home to continue his recovery and begin the long journey towards eventually being adopted into a loving home.

Matthew is one of many Mickaboo rescue parrots who come to us in need of emergency medical care. In Matthew’s case, veterinary care was costly but essential to his survival and recovery. Veterinary expenses for our rescued parrots accounts for over 95% of our expenses. Furthermore, while many parrots are surrendered with health issues, many more healthy parrots come to Mickaboo too. The number of surrender requests has recently reached a record high. For example, we receive 2-3 requests a month to take in macaws, far exceeding our capacity, so we are prioritizing emergencies.

We need more people who can foster or adopt large birds like macaws. If you are qualified to foster or adopt from us and are interested in macaws, please contact us here.

And, Mickaboo relies on your donations to be able to provide our rescued birds  with veterinary care until they can be adopted out to a loving family. Consider donating here - our many volunteers and birds will thank you for your generosity!