A Bird s Eye View. Christiana CALENDAR OF EVENTS

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1 Page 1 A Newsletter of the West Valley Bird Society Volume 25, Issue 3 March 2007 The other day I got an from Ruth Kain, our editor. In it she said how lucky I am to have Thor - that even though he chews his feathers, he's probably one of the most loved birds in the world. I think that s true. Thor has quite a fan club. There's an internet group specializing in rare Cockatoos, and from time to time people will join and inquire about Two Exotics Palms because they were at a pet expo or a bird show and saw the most amazing one. It always turns out to be Thor. So many times people will say to me, "I met someone who knows you," and it's always from talking about birds. Even my dentist said over the two years I've been going there, he's found out that other patients know me. Not always by name, but by my birds - the girl with the crazy hair and the big black birds. I love it. My birds have been on TV, in movies, in the newspaper, and, of course, Bird Talk magazine. Any chance I get, no matter how, if I can take my birds, I go In April the America s Family Pet Expo is in Costa Mesa. The club has 3 booths this year. And last year we were invited to attend in Michigan because our booth here was so popular with vendors and attendees. If you can make it out there, it's really fun. We even made a few hundred dollars last year taking pictures with our birds. Steve Reverditto's Hyacinth, Molly, and Vladimir, my Palm, were the most requested birds. So, if you feel like taking your birds on a little outing, let Linda Bueshing or me know. We do expos, scout meetings, community fairs, school visits, or you name it. Let us know if you find somewhere that might like the club to attend. My birds are my best friends and because of them I've met some really great people, and some of them I now consider as friends. Christiana This is Wazo, Jackie Wollenr s Citron Crested Cockatoo. He is a 16-year-old male. Put YOUR bird in the newsletter and on the website. Send your photo to Ruth at voltrot@aol.com or mail to WVBS, Attention Editor, P.O. Box 8221, Northridge, CA CALENDAR OF EVENTS Friday, March 16, 2007 Scott Echols, D.V.M. Diplomate ABVP Utilization of Captive Foraging Friday, April 19, 2007 Bonnie Zimmermann Friday, May 18, 2007 Matt Schmitt Lories 101 Watch website for more information.

2 Page 2 Looks like we had a great turn out of members to meet and listen to animal communicator, Terri Steuben, during our February meeting. I hope those who received readings from her found her information enlightening and helped to solve or explain the mysteries of their bird and why they behave a certain way. Terri Steuben Along with all the people, came tons of snack food. We had to put up another table to accommodate all the goodies that people brought with them that night. Thanks everyone for donating the food! It was enjoyed by all! For our March meeting, avian vet, Scott Echols, will be coming from Austin to chat about his theory of "Captive Foraging." A number of DVDs that he produced on the topic will be available at the meeting for purchase. Learn creative solutions to keep your birdie's brain intrigued and busy. Scott's ideas have not only been utilized by private bird owners, but they have also been applied to the behavioral enrichment regiments of birds in zoo collections. I hope some of you will be able to join us for a pre-meeting dinner with Scott at our usual spot, "Two Guys From Italy." We usually meet there between 5:00 and 5:30 p.m. Over the past month I have heard reports by more than one surprised bird owner regarding the egg laying of their hen family members. Well, this is generally no cause for alarm. It's a seasonal hormone fluctuation. This time of year is laying and nesting season for many species of birds; especially exotic ones. Even my Mousebirds have been in the family way over the past few weeks. As time passes, your hen friend's egg-laying should diminish in frequency. Just make sure she has good calcium sources to replace what she's lost. Give her frequent showers and keep her well hydrated. Calcium and hydration are important to prevent egg binding. If she becomes eggbound, do NOT attempt to force out the egg yourself from her oviduct or cloaca. This is a tedious and risky procedure that should be carried out by your avian vet. Whether to leave the eggs in the cage or remove them seems to be up for debate. If either works to help reduce egg production, go for it. I would also suggest withholding the amount of "touchy, feely" time you spend with the hen. Avoid caressing her body excessively and especially under the wing. Many hens interpret this as a mating ritual which only encourages egg laying. Just remember, when a hen lays an egg, she is expressing her closeness to you as well (pair bonding). You could look at it as a special gift. Just keep her healthy... Hanna Above is Archie, Hanna s Speckled Mousebird. The sex is unknown, but he/she will be 5 on March 11, which is the hatch day. Photo by Patricia Volger Caps Jackets Aprons & Bags Patches Personalized Gifts Custom Logos Team Uniforms Tackle Twill Shirts FOR THAT ONE OF A KIND GIFT OR YOUR CORPORATE NEEDS NO MINIMUM ORDERS fax: Bob & Linda Buesching Ash Glen Circle Valencia, California 91354

3 Page 3 Time: Place: Cost: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. (Break for Lunch) The Culver Hotel 9400 Culver Blvd. Culver City, CA $30 per person Space is Very Limited You must Pre-register! Call Rose Levine at to give your credit card number or Mail Check to: Parrots First P.O. Box Los Angeles, CA This lecture/workshop is an intensive exploration of the training, lifestyle and problem-solving advice in Rebecca K. O Connor s book, A Parrot for Life. The discussion will include advice on how to avoid problem behaviors; prepare your parrot for life s surprises; integrate changes into your parrot s life seamlessly, and train for a healthier relationship. Tools for problem-solving will also be discussed, and time for questions will be allowed. This interactive lecture will include a Power Point presentation and handouts. Rebecca s books will be available for sale. Magnolia Bird Farm We Buy Birds We Sell Birds Complete Bird Supplies Frank Miser, Sr Cerritos Ave. Anaheim, CA Phone: Fax: (Closed first 2 weeks in July) Frank Miser, Jr Magnolia Ave. Riverside, CA Phone: (Closed first 2 weeks in August) Open 9-5 Tues.-Sat. - Closed Sunday, Monday, and Holidays

4 Page 4 Our speaker for the March 16 meeting is Scott Echols, D.V.M., Diplomate ABVP. As mentioned by Hanna on page 2, Dr. Echols will speak on feather destructive behaviors (FDB), also known as psychogenic feather picking, which is commonly encountered in pet psittacines. Recently, the use of foraging has been suggested as a means to manage FDB in psittacine species. Scott is married to another Austin veterinarian, Layle Griffieon. They are proud parents to a herd of Italian greyhounds, multiple birds, and two cats. They enjoy outdoor activities like camping, hiking, fishing, etc. Below are some pertinent facts about Scott Echols. Present Employment Westgate Pet & Bird Hospital Austin, TX. Special interests include aviculture/production consultation, advanced surgical procedures, internal medicine, and kidney disease Education Magna Cum Laude DVM graduate of Texas A&M University, College of Veterinary Medicine, 1995 Completed avian residency at the Oakley Veterinary Medical Center in California, 1999 Organizations American Veterinary Medical Association Texas Veterinary Medical Association Association of Avian Veterinarians American Association of Zoo Veterinarians Association of Reptilian and Amphibian Veterinarians American Animal Hospital Association Texas Academy of Veterinary Practice American Board of Veterinary Practitioners Professional Activities Proceedings Editorial Board Association of Avian Veterinarians, present Board of Directors Association of Avian Veterinarians, 2003 to present President Elect of the Association of Avian Veterinarians, Editorial reviewer for the Journal of Avian Medicine and Surgery, 2000 to present Reviewer for American Board of Veterinary Practitioners Diplomate applications, 2002 to present American Board of Veterinary Practitioners Exam Committee, 2003 to present Speaking around the country on numerous topics in avian and reptilian medicine and surgery Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine adjunct professor, 2002 to present Various radio and TV appearances covering avian topics Awards Lafeber - Avian Practitioner of the Year Award, 2005 Publications Exotic Pet Medicine and Surgery, Basic Avian Techniques, Volumes I-III (Blood collection, Necropsy and cytology and Basic nonsurgical procedures). Teton NewMedia, Jackson, WY, 2006 Captive Foraging. DVD. Zoological Education Network, Lake Worth, Fl, Numerous other journals and book articles Interests Playing guitar, painting and just about any outdoor activity. Raffle tickets are $3 each or 2 for $5. 2 Drawings - March 16 and April 20 The ticket includes everything, even the Banquet - A $245 value! See pages 18 & 19.

5 Page 5 Birdkeeping Naturally EB Cravens Did you ever sit down at a desk to write something, only to end up writing something else entirely different? That is what is happening to me right now. It s Valentine s Day, though, so I have a legitimate excuse. You see I was going to do a BN this month on some rather dry factual topic like care and maintenance or creative environments; but then this heart-shaped holiday tapped me on the forehead. Lo and behold, I began conjuring thoughts of which psittacine in my experience is the cutest Try holding a tame Budgerigar in your hand for a moment. April and I have recently adopted several former pets, and these guys are sooo precious! They twitter and chirp and squiggle in the hand and posture like a great big parrot, and may even try to chew your fingertip a bit which, of course, does not really hurt at all. How perceptive, those tiny blackish eyes. It had been many years since I was associated with a pet Budgie, and I had forgotten how endearing they can be. Cuteness=8 out of 10. Somewhere over the years I fell in love with Cinnamon Cockatiel males you know, the original ones with such striking size and that burnished tan marking on back and wings. I don t go in much for mutations breeding but these guys could steal your heart with a tall, full crest rise, a wide-eyed stare, and a wolf whistle greeting to most anyone who came in the room. Hard to find well marked cinnamons these days, and I do miss seeing the healthy best individuals. Cuteness rating=7. Why is it so many smaller psittacines can easily be termed cute? Perhaps 'tis the benign way many of them hang out on my shoulder and relate in such a gentle, passive way. Outstanding in this respect is a prizewinner in the Ringneck genus, the Plumhead Parakeet. Adorably placid, the Plumheads I have raised are non-aggressive, well-behaved, intelligent, and handleable. And that crimson plum color...wow! Cuteness=also a 7. For a period of several years at Feathered Friends of Santa Fe, I was privileged to handfeed and raise baby Patagonian Conures. Beyond the incredibly soft texture of their plumage, what I remember most about all the Pattys was their appealing sense of humor. Fledglings would sneak up and take hold of your watchband or shoelace, make little clucking noises and grasp to get you to play, roll over on their backs on the floor and ogle you patiently, waiting to be lifted upside down and cuddled. Some of their mannerisms are so unique that Patagonians to this day remain one of my most beloved of hookbill species. Even their piercing voice cannot change their cuteness factor=7.5. I have been keeping and training Cape Parrots for nigh on 16 years. These clownish, short-tailed, top heavy and oversize-beaked psittacines with the charming dolphin smiles are both precocious and sly. Their affections are lavish to a fault especially when they want something or wish to be forgiven for being naughty (again!). Then, apology accepted, a Cape Parrot will likely head off in search of another forbidden activity, all the while watching owners warily from afar. If unpredictability can be included within cuteness, then Capes certainly qualify. Besides, I have a soft spot for spirited parrots with gentle mouths. Score=6.9. There is something about being in the smallest Macaw species on earth that makes for a totally winning package. I met my first Noble Macaws in 1984, and those tiny white face patches, bobbing heads and mumbled greetings entranced me from the start yes, you had me from hello! In many ways a Noble can be viewed as a Blue Crown Conure with stage makeup and midget Macaw attitude. Boy, can these guys strut. Their feathers just glow and they often love to be scratched. Goodness what a cute companion bird, albeit hard to find for sale. Cuteness = 6.8. It s a little bit hard for me to envision a Cockatoo species as cute simply because I have spent so much time around Cockatoos and occasionally tire of trying to match wits with them. There always seems to be a qualification with a Cockie. I mean Rosies are cute, but And citrons are certainly cute, except that... You see what I mean? So when push comes to shove, I admit I will have to choose the Gang-Gang Cockatoos I have seen. Wonderful pinks, unintimidating size, a curious, manageable nature, and that fascinating, punkish, slightly comical frazzle crest that resembles something dangling on a deep ocean luminescent bait fish. Yup, cuteness in Cockatoos has to be a Gang-Gang. I ll give it=6.7. Lots of bird owners express the notion that basically single-hued psittacines are not as attractive. I have always differed. I really like the looks of Black Lories and Vasa Parrots, for example. On the same topic, consider the Timneh African Grey. Not a lot of bright color variations on Timnehs. Still, I suggest that the smallest race (Continued on page 13)

6 Page 6 HAS A SPECIAL INTEREST IN BIRDS EXPERIENCED VETERINARIANS & STAFF Frank Lavac, MS/DVM, Diplomate, ABVP-Avian Jim Schulke,DVM, ABVP-Feline Michelle Jack, DVM Anne Dueppen, DVM Margaret Lee, DVM Open 7 Days a Week Convenient Parking 2421 Wilshire Boulevard, Santa Monica, CA Monday 7 a.m. - 8 p.m. Tuesday - Friday 7 a.m. - 7 p.m. Saturday 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Sunday 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

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8 Page 8 Dr. Stewart Metz, Director of The Indonesian Parrot Project, discusses the challenges involved in running a wild parrot rehabilitation center on Seram Island. Photographs by the author unless otherwise noted. We have special permission to reprint this article which appeared in the December 2006 issue of Parrots Magazine. It is copyrighted and neither the article nor the photographs are to be used by any other individuals for any reason without permission from Parrots Magazine and the author. I n the movie "Field of Dreams," actor Kevin Costner says of a baseball field and of legendary baseball players, "If you build it, they will come." So it was, in a way, with our dream of building a Rehabilitation and Release Center for wild Indonesian birds confiscated by government authorities from smugglers--birds which included some of Indonesia's own legends: their cockatoos, lories, and parrots. Kembali Bebas ("Return to Freedom") was begun by the Indonesian Parrot Project (aka, Project Bird Watch in the US) in October of But would the authorities trust and work with us, and give us the birds? If we built it, would they come? them smilingly with "tidak apaapa", the rough equivalent of "No worries, Mate!" Some of these problems are small and seemingly simple but require ingenuity to solve. On a recent business trip, Associate Director Bonnie Zimmermann, Scientific Consultant Don Brightsmith, and a team of veterinarians were inspecting all of our birds, deworming them, inserting microchips, and fitting them with legbands. To do this on wild parrots required a lot of towels but there were almost none to be found. Bonnie's solution: use Indonesian sarongs! Problems: Some more serious than others Seram Cockatoo wrapped in sarong for micro-chipping and leg-banding. PHOTO BONNIE ZIMMERMANN Come they did, such that our census has consistently run between about 100 and 125 psittacines over the last year. However, there are always new and challenging problems encountered in trying to rehabilitate parrots in a Center built in a tropical jungle in one of the most remote places on earth. So we lump all these problems under the catch phrase petualangan, Indonesian for "an adventure," and try to deal with However, some problems are worrisome. The "bird flu" has recently affected us in a curious way. Although avian influenza is present in fowl in almost every other province in Indonesia, thus far Maluku (the Moluccas, wherein Seram lies) has remained free of this plague. I also previously documented in this Magazine (PARROTS, January, 2006, page 24,) that there has never been a well-documented, (Continued on page 9)

9 Page 9 (Continued from page 8) spontaneous case of the deadly H5N1-strain of avian influenza in a parrot. Nonetheless, a recent decree has forbidden the transport of birds of any kind--including parrots, between Indonesian provinces. This decree has effected us in a very serious way. It was issued literally on the same week that we had planned to transport more than 30 Seram cockatoos from the Bali Wild Animal Rescue Center to Kembali Bebas. Since these cockatoos had previously been extensively tested for disease via sensitive PCR-DNA technology, they are excellent candidates for our program for release back into the wild. Even though they have all been tested twice specifically for bird flu and all results are negative, their transport to Seram remains on hold until the ban on interisland is lifted. "Air Parrot Project" In contrast, the "solution" to some problems is almost humorous. Shipping to Indonesia is problematic-- it is hugely expensive, unreliable, and freight can be hit with import fees of %. Whence, "Air Parrot Project"!-- that is, whenever possible, we carry items to Indonesia in our personal baggage. Unfortunately, the trip (one-way) from Seattle to the Center involves 6 airplane flights, one ferry, one longboat ride, one long van or jeep ride and several car exchanges. Often, curious Customs baggage inspectors pose interesting questions along the way, and we always hope to avoid queries as to the identity of "those bags of that white powder" (lory food)! Speaking of which, thanks to the wonderful generosity of Rosemary Low, and donations from the Birdcare Co. and Roudybush, Inc, our birds now have premium-quality lory food, which is unavailable (like other parrot foods) in Indonesia. Our next project is to provide a generator and refrigerator in which to store parrot food--since there is no electricity either on Seram Island. A Seram cockatoo at Kembali Bebas enjoys his first man-made toy. We also received some wonderful but huge wood toys from Mike Taylor at Northern Parrots, which the cockatoos (especially the ones which had been in personal homes for a time) greatly enjoyed chewing. Transporting them was quite the adventure though. It was accomplished largely due to the heroics of Andelphine and Imogen Mason-Brown who carried them via "Air Parrot Project" from the UK. The transport was capped by the amusing thought of possibly having to explain this to Customs officials:" Yes, Sir, you did hear us correctly. We are, in fact, transporting wood BACK to your forest. We realize this may seem a bit unusual " Humor aside, this underscores the great need for enrichment activities for wild parrots as well as for those raised from captive stock. As soon as the birds at Kembali Bebas finish their a prolonged quarantine period, they are transferred to large flight cages so that we can observe their socialization patterns, flight capabilities, aversion to humans, desire to eat natural forest foods, etc., in preparation for possible release back into the forest. Curiously, provision of enrichment materials such as wood to chew on, or vines to swing from, was not something that the workers at KB (who are all extrappers) intuitively thought to do. It is (Continued on page 10) Five Seram Cockatoos and the evidence of the need to chew (right).

10 Page 10 Left: The socialization flight cage for wild-caught Umbrella cockatoos is adjacent to that for Eleonora cockatoos Right: The Purple-naped lory (Continued from page 9) a constant and time-consuming chore to keep natural forest items present for play but very rewarding to see the birds enjoying themselves. Lories and lorikeets: Small birds with huge personalities We certainly do not plan to regularly provide man-made toys, except for particular uses. For example, Rosemary Low has described in the source about loriinae ( The Hancock House Encyclopedia of the Lories, 1998) the provision of suspended standing-water baths for lories and lorikeets, so we have provided these with the help of Bruce Bailey. The response was immediate--like people dashing into the spray of a city fountain on a hot summer day, their enjoyment seemed boundless. Similarly, the delight of these enchanting birds to the provision of lory nectar was immediately evident. In the photo at the bottom left, blackcapped lories can be seen providing a riot of color at the nectar bowl. Parenthetically, one of the benefits to us of this work is the privilege of getting to know these gems--they are clowns who steal your heart immediately, and we urge the Readership to fall in love with, and help these birds too, who tend to get overshadowed by the larger macaws and cockatoos but are in need of study and assistance globally too. Work at KB also gives us a chance to make repeated and close-up observations of some rare lorinae. For example, for the Purple-naped lory Lorius domicella, it is difficult to appreciate its variable purple nape patch, except in the best light, whereas its far more striking features include its blue thigh "leggings," yellow pectoral band; yellow marking on the underwing feathers; and diagnostic broad brown-red tip to its tail. Likewise, one gets to examine the beauty of the uncommon Bluestreaked lory Eos reticulata up close. Recognition of Species and Subspecies Another important aspect of work at KB is the recognition of the various psittacine species and subspecies, a feature which we hope will draw students in the future to come and spend time at KB to do research or just learn more about these birds. One of Black-capped lories vie energetically for the best spots at the nectar bowls. Portrait of a Blue-streaked Lory

11 Page 11 Chattering lories swarming around nectar: note varying degrees of yellow in the mantle. A Seram cockatoo shows the use of natural enrichment materials. the projects which we are now just beginning to address is the species - and subspecies - specific needs of our captive population. Only birds native to Seram Island can be released there. A specie such as the Black-capped lory (Lorius lory), which comprises a large percentage of our birds, is found in West Papua but not Seram, and can be released only where it is indigenously found. As a first step, we are now considering establishing a small release site on tiny Gam Island in West Papua, once the ban on parrot transport is lifted. Guests on our eco-tour are familiar with the wonderful people of Yenwapnour Village on Gam, who have stopped trapping parrots in return for our support. It might be a logical place for "Kembali Bebas 2--West Papua"!! Other parrots will be even more complex to release. Currently housed at KB are four of the nine (some would say 10) subspecies of Eclectus roratus: roratus or "Grand," vosmaeri or "Vosmaer's," polychloros or Redsided; and aruensis or "Aru Island," each of which will require a separate release site. The six Umbrella cockatoos (Cacatua alba), which we were given to care for after a recent confiscation, will have to be released in North Maluku. Likewise, the Chattering Lory is derived from the islands of Northern Maluku; however, it has three subspecies-- L. garrulus garrulus, L. garrulus flavopalliatus, and L. garrulus morotaianus. They derive from different islands in Northern Maluku and are morphologically distinguishable, based largely on the extent of the yellow mantle patch on their back. They would therefore require three different release (and monitoring) sites. Our First Release: Follow- Up Lastly, a small bit of followup: As some readers may already know, we were able to release our first three confiscated wild Seram (Salmon-crested) cockatoos back into the forest last March. The photo to the right provided here is one taken just prior to the one readers might have seen in an earlier edition of PARROTS Magazine. There have been two provisional sighting of two of these 3 cockatoos since then, both by villagers (but not by more experienced extrappers). We hope that this indicates early survival, and therefore at least a chance at more prolonged survival. We know there are no guarantees, but for those three, there was a kembali bebas -- a return to freedom. More than 30 more Seram cockatoos currently housed on Bali are awaiting their turn, and many of those at Kembali, who have not been pets, still await testing for consideration of possible future release. Sadly, many more await rescue, such The first photo of a Seram cockatoo exiting release cage. March as the Umbrella cockatoo we spotted in Bali at the quarters of the Special Police Brigade where power and prestige may shield them from confiscation. We will keep you informed. Stewart Metz

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13 Page 13 (Continued from page 5) of this desirable grey subspecies those diminutive Timneh birds, the size of large Jardine s with ancestors nearer the Ivory Coastline, are one of the cutest parrots I have ever known. They stare at you in that docile, cockedhead, almost nerdy mode, then come out with some clearly spoken verbalization such as, Would you like a cookie? Marvelous. And well deserving of a rating here=6.9. Speaking of single-tint parrots, how many of us consider those enormous, boisterous Hyacinth Macaws as cute? Well, I know that in the end a Macaw is a Macaw and these giants are not always so gentle. Nevertheless, when I look into a pupil of one of these parrots, and see through the black depths into a very cognizant thinking brain, all highlighted by that intense yellow eye ring and face skin, I have to admit Hyacinths can be magnetic! Largest parrot beak in the world, and all macho aside, I would give the face alone on a Hyacinth a solid=6.8. So which psittacine ranks as my most cutest? I have to admit that I consider all handfed baby parrots lovable, what with the way they behave towards humans. And I have left out the White-Fronted Amazon, Quaker Parrot, and the unique Tui Parakeet all of which rate. But when it comes to grown up and mature hookbills, I have always had a favorite. It is a tiny slightly-larger-than-lovebird sized Lorikeet with an outgoing, joyous personality, a penchant for climbing on its people and strangers for affection, a captivating little talking voice with clear enunciations, and the curious, mischievous approach to life which can leave owners in chuckles day in and day out. It also has no forceful nip when wrestling and playing with fingers! My number one: the Goldie s Lorikeet. Cuteness factor as high as I give=9. Happy Valentine s Day, everyone. Aloha means love, EB Cheers, EB There is not always room in the newsletter for all the photos taken at the meetings. To see more photos of the WVBS meetings and various events, please go to Patricia Volger s website Events/ Maybe you will find YOUR photo at one of the events. The club thanks Patricia again for all her help in taking the photos and for making them available to the membership on her website. Can you volunteer a little time to WVBS? The Pomona Bird Mart is coming up on Sunday, March 18. Other events coming up are as follows. The Blessing of the Animals on Olvera Street will be on Saturday, April 7. America s Family Pet Expo in Costa Mesa at the Orange County Fairgrounds takes place on April 13, 14, and 15. This is a great event which Christiana mentioned in her front page message. Arbor Day in Central Park in Santa Clarita is coming up on Saturday, May 19. We can use volunteers - either with or without a bird. Then, on June 9 will be the PEAC Parrot Expo Extravaganza. These events are great fun. Please come and join us. The Board believes in the need to educate the public about the beauty and companionship that our birds add to our lives. We also believe that the public needs to be aware of the care and commitment that these birds require when added to the family. At these events we distribute material about Teflon cookware, bird clubs, rescue organizations, signs of a sick bird, etc. We encourage people who presently own birds to feed a balanced and nutritious diet. WVBS also uses these events to raise money with the sale of magazines and bird-related items. This added revenue offsets printing costs and allows us to have better speakers at our meetings. If you wish to participate in these events, please contact Linda Buesching at You need not bring a bird, but the birds do help draw attention to our club. If there is an event in your area, let Linda know and she will try to get the club involved.

14 Page 14 I send the newsletter to four different people for proofing and making sure we have all the necessary items included. Sadly, I still manage to make mistakes. I do hope you will all forgive me. I came across this recently, and I hope it will make you a little more understanding when you spot an error! By the way, do not hesitate to tell me if you see something wrong. I like to know, so I can correct things in the next issue. Ruth Kain, Editor The Spell Checker Eye halve a spelling chequer; It came with my pea sea. It plainly marques four my revue Miss steaks eye can knot sea. Eye strike a key and type a whirred And weight four it two say Weather eye am wrong or write. It shows me strait a weigh. As soon as a mist ache is maid, It nose bee fore two long; An dye can put the era rite. Its rare lea ever wrong. Eye have run this poem threw it. I'm sheer your pleased two no Its letter perfect awl the weigh; My chequer tolled me sew. Author Unknown Above is Christina Kranzler with her Panama Amazon, Ticky. Ticky celebrated his/her (I missed which it was) 21st birthday at the February West Valley meeting! There was a delicious birthday cake so everyone could join in the celebration. Christina said, Ticky is now old enough for a key to the front door and is old enough to go bar hopping! Again - Happy 21st Ticky! At the March meeting, Terri Steuben told us abut Surf City Animal Response Team. You can check this group out on the internet at You can them at hb_scart@yahoo.com. Below is their mission as listed on the site. Take a look and see what you can do to help animals in the next emergency. SCART MISSION To respond to animal needs and assist other agencies during a disaster or a crisis. To educate the public in the care of animals during a disaster or crisis and educate them regarding animal abuse. To provide training to individual animal owners to take care of their animals at home, and to assist the neighborhood animals before, during, and after a disaster. We always have an outstanding array of food available at the meetings. We thank everyone who donates. Please be sure and check the address page of the newsletter to see if you are one of those expected to donate each month. Obviously, people donate even when they do not need to. Did you know that Dj (our Past President) donates the sandwich every month? Thanks Dj! Also, did you know that the club does NOT provide drinks. We need drinks to be donated also. To offer assistance to cities with animal sheltering, pet response, and disaster recovery as needed or requested. To provide crisis-trained and/or therapy-trained handlers and or animal teams that offer comfort, stress relief, and an emotional support system to the victims of and responders to a disaster. To provide animal-assisted therapy and/or animalfacilitated activities to individuals and groups.

15 Page 15 Parrots International is happy to announce that the historical Spix's habitat of Gangorra Farm, totally 400 hectares (1000 acres), has been purchased by the partnership of Parrots International, ACTP and Lymington Foundation for the benefit of the Spix's Macaw Working Group. This partnership was created at the recent meeting of the Working Group for the purpose of acquiring Gangorra. We hope this is only the beginning of a new chapter in the story of the successful reintroduction of the Spix's Macaw into its historical habitat. May we all see "The Dream" come true. Riacho Melancia Creek - Gangorra Farm Historical Spix's nest tree (See "The Dream") in center The Dream As a service to members, WVBS is setting up a list of members who are willing to take care of other members birds when the need arises. Whether it is for house painting, vacations, or times that your usual bird-sitter is not available, this is a service that can help everyone. For those volunteering to take in another bird(s), it s a great way to borrow a pet and get to know other species. Those members willing to have their names listed will be asked to fill out an informational form indicating where you live, what birds you have in your flock, what size birds you would be willing to care for (small, medium, large), and whether you are willing to do this service on an exchange basis or for pay. Ruthann Lehrer has volunteered to be the contact person to assemble this list. You may contact her at ruthannpreserves@yahoo.com or Please donate your old Bird Talk magazines and other bird publications to WVBS. Just bring them with you to the meeting and give them to a Board Member.

16 Page 16 Amy B. Worell, D.V.M. Diplomate, American Board of Veterinary Practioners Certified in Avian Practice Mon. 7-8 Tue.-Fri 7-6 Sat Fallbrook Avenue West Hills, CA

17 Page 17 Fenix Crocks and Feeders, Inc. Crocks, Cages & Birds Ron & Cyndie Norcutt Representatives Corporate Office and Warehouse Briggs Road Menifee, CA Tel: (951) Fax: (951) Cell: (951) Worldwide Website: Burton Avenue Burbank, CA P (818) 843-MATE P (818) F (818) Animal Enclosure and Cage Specialists Quality cage products at prices that don't bite! Avian Adventure Cages TM Lixit TM Flax Seed Sprays Gift Shop for Bird Lovers! (951) Totally Organic Bird Pellets TM Toys Mealworms & Crickets

18 Page 18 When: Saturday & Sunday, April 28 & 29 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Where: UCLA The Covel Commons Conference Center What: Focus on Parrot Conservation & Field Research Presentations on Wild & Companion Parrots 2007 is the Year of the Blue Macaws This is the third year for The Parrots International Symposium. I have attended the previous two years. They have both been fabulous and a great opportunity to learn more about these feathery creatures we all love. I remember the first year, I wondered why I was going since I had very little interest in conservation. Well, that attitude disappeared in the first 10 minutes. We saw photos of parrots in the wild, and they were beautiful. Then we were told many were at risk! What! How can this be? What can we do? From then on I was hooked. Last year the speakers all said that they felt all pet bird owners and bird clubs should do something to support the birds in the wild in some way. It was pointed out that non-bird owners contributed more towards research, etc. than actual bird owners. That first year I did not go to the Banquet. But, last year, I did not want to miss one moment of the festivities. It was all great fun and a great learning experience. There are lots of speakers brought in from all over the world. They are all very nice and happy to talk to you should you have any questions or just want to get to know them better. I just wish I had the right words to encourage you to attend this terrific event which is right here in our back yard! No need to get on a plane and travel to another city, state, or country! They will all be HERE and ready to teach us about their passion - parrots of varying species. Please make plans now to attend these two days of learning, fun, and having the opportunity to meet other bird people from all over the world. The first morning, Bird Talk will provide (free of charge to the attendees) a nice continental breakfast with coffee and teas provided most of the day. The second day, Parrots International will host the same service. They will also try and provide afternoon snacks. There is a sandwich/snack shop next to Covel Commons and there are many places all around UCLA to grab a bite for lunch. The building also has a vending machine. Take a look at all the world-renowned speakers listed below. I would think everyone is curious to know of the inroads that have been made in bringing back the Spix Macaw as well as all the other rare parrots that are in great danger of extinction. Come to the Symposium and see what your part can be in saving these magnificent creatures. Learn about the roots of the birds in your living rooms. Keep checking the website at for information. They have bios of the speakers on the site. Once you read those, you will see that you MUST attend this event! Ruth Kain, Editor Speakers Dr. Mark Stafford, President Parrots International (Parrots International projects) Dr. Nigel Collar PhD., UK, Birdlife International (The Glaucous Macaw) Neiva Guedes, leader of Projeto Arara Azul, Brazil (The Hyacinth Macaw Project) Dr. Yara Barros Ph.D., Brazil (Spix's and Lear's Macaw conservation and Coauthor of the Spix's Recovery Action Plan) Yves de Soye, UK (Birdlife International and Coauthor of the Spix's Recovery Action Plan) Dr. Donald Merton, Ph.D., New Zealand (Kakapo Recovery Program) Bennett Hennessey of Armonia, Boliva (Blue-throated Macaw Project) Dr. Paul Salaman Ph.D., American Bird Conservancy (Threatened Parrots of Colombia) Olivier Chassot, Costa Rica (The Great-Green Macaw Project) Carlos Bonillo-Ruiz, Mexico (The Military Macaw Project) Dr. Don Brightsmith, Peru (The Tambopata Research Project) Dr. Susan Friedman Ph.D., Utah State University (Parrot Behaviorist) Dr. Darrel Styles, D.V.M, Ph.D., (U.S. Department of Agriculture) Dr. Frank Lavac, D.V.M., Santa Monica, CA (Board Certified Avian Veterinarian) Rosemary Low, UK (Parrot Expert and Author) Dr. David Waugh, Ph.D., Tenerife, Spain (Director of Loro Parque Foundation)

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20 Page 20 Will you take me home with you? I can't promise I'll be good No one has taught me how to act Or behave as a parrot "should." My first owner didn't treat me right He said that I was "bad" He never forgave me that first bite After that, he was always mad. He shoved me back into my cage And so I started to scream Then he hit me in a rage And my life became a bad dream So now I scream and yes, I bite I'm angry and misunderstood But please, please take me home with you. Love me and I'll be good. Please let me come home with you And spend some time with me I can be sweet again I know Take me home, you'll see. My next owner swore at me I learned to say things back So now my words are crude and rude Please cut me some slack. If you let me come home with you I'll learn some nicer speech If you are kind and give me time I'll change my vulgar screech. My next owner just HAD to have me She thought I was "way cool" But now she doesn't have time for me She's busy with boys and school. That's why I began to pluck I'm not pretty any more I won't be much of an ornament If that's what you're looking for. I may never grow new feathers My chest may always be bare But my soul I know could heal itself If only someone would care. My last owner died and left me She said that she'd made plans But she never followed through on them And I've fallen into bad hands. Please overlook my failings Please end this pain and strife Please please take me home with you I'll be your friend for life. Please take me home and treat me right And let our friendship grow Please let me come home with you This time it will work, I know. By Judith R. Archer, copyright (Please contact her at jarcher107@aol.com for permission to reprint this poem.) I'm really just a baby And so misunderstood Please let me come home with you I can learn to be good. There are so many birds needing homes out there. If you are considering another bird, please think about adopting. Call one of these rescue/adoption groups. They all have many wonderful birds just waiting for someone to come and take them home. Fine Feathered Friends Foundation Myrna, Parrots First , ext The Lily Sanctuary Friends of Parrots Rescue & Adoption and PEAC -

21 Page 21 Well, I just got back from Parrot Festival 2007, in Houston. It was a fantastic the line up of amazing speakers, and I have learned so much my head hurts. I loved seeing everyone and making new friends and later laughing so hard that I was literally crying at the hilarious stories Bonnie Zimermann and Sally Blanchard told us after at the bar! There was so much to learn and learn we all did! For example, Dr. Don Brightmith shared his dietary study. It was interesting to note that the Scarlet Macaws in Peru ate the soil (copa) from the Tambopata clay licks with a high sodium content in the licks and that the soil other than the licks in the Tambopata area and close parts of South America have very low to no sodium content in the soil. Interesting that they fed their babies less and less soil as they got older. Plants don't need sodium, and unlike animals, are able to live without salt with no problem. In countries such as Costa Rica, in Central America, the Scarlets do the opposite. They do not eat copa (soil) perhaps because the soil there is so loaded with sodium. This copa could compete with a Big Mac in a sodium contest! Also we saw photos of the crop contents of the baby Scarlet Macaws; and they were high in roughage with even bits of bark, very much like the adult diets! Brightsmith then said that maybe the babies need more roughage, more than we thought. He asked us how we would be doing on a diet of baby food with no roughage. (lol!) In showing charts, Brightsmith demonstrated that wild baby Macaws are much heavier than their captiveraised counterparts. As time passed, the curves leveled out, with the captive-raised chicks becoming heavier. Interestingly, there is no evidence that wild chicks lose weight before fledging as captive-bred chicks do. The diet of the wild baby Macaws is lower in zinc and potassium, but higher in calcium and magnesium than the diets recommended by avian veterinarians and pellet manufacturers. Dr Natalie Antinoff, another speaker at the Parrot Festival, warned of disease. She advised us to wash our hands both before and after handling our birds. She stated that rescue birds which had not been handled by humans had a rate of far less staff infections than pet birds which are handled regularly. The risk of disease is, in Dr. Atinoff s opinion, much greater than the risks posed by dietary toxins. As far as eating soil, all of this makes you wonder doesn't it maybe there is something here we have been missing. It could very well be they do eat or don't eat soil for reasons quite different than what was first theorized. In fact, we have learned that it now appears they can take 50 times more plant toxins than we can! Angela Cancilla Herschel Bring poop paper for your bird s use. Clean up after your parrot (poop and food), We do not employ a clean-up crew. Do not allow your bird to roam around at will (on chairs, etc.) or get close to other birds. Clip those wings! Meeting hall doors may be open. Bio-security may be in place at the meeting entrance. Use antiseptic hand wipes before touching other birds respect other parrots health. We will all miss Steve Reverditto this summer. He is always ready to lend a helping hand where ever it is needed. Steve will be a part of The Amazing Pets Show, at Grand Country Square in Branson, Missouri, from June 1st through August 25th. He and his amazing birds will do a 10 a.m. show 6 days a week. In addition to the birds, there are performing dogs and trained house cats. Sounds like a fabulous show for the animal lovers out there. Just in case you have a trip to Branson planned, you can reserve tickets to the Amazing Pets Show by calling Have a great time, Steve. And, keep cool! It gets rather toasty in Branson!

22 Page 22 We have a member who lives in the Pomona area who would like to carpool to the club meetings with someone. She does not want to be picked up, she would be perfectly willing to meet somewhere and then carpool together. If you come from the Pomona area and would be willing to carpool, would you please call Judy Woolsey at Is anyone else interested in starting up some sort of carpool to the club meetings? If so, please either call Ruth at or send me an at voltrot@aol.com, and I will include a note in the newsletter. I usually come out to the meetings, and I drive from Palos Verdes if anyone is interested. The only problem is that I usually come early in the afternoon to avoid the rush hour traffic. Ruth We will be hosting a Bagel Brunch and Microchip/Grooming Clinic with Teresa Micco on Sunday, April 22 in the Woodland Hills/Topanga/ Ventura Boulevard area. Teresa will be back in town for a visit, and would love to see everyone. The microchip is $35 per bird with a $15 registration fee to Avid. Grooming fees will vary. The cost of the Bagel Brunch is $10. Please Linda Bueshing at her address, lbuesching@thevine.net, or you can call her at for reservations and directions to the event. Large Lots are for Dogs, Cats and Birds too! MONIQUE BRYHER (818) (Direct) moniqueb@carnahanrealty.com RA-1, Large Lots and Commercial Ventura Boulevard Woodland Hills (818) Ext Chatsworth Calabasas Tarzana (Melody Acres) Woodland Hills Agoura Sunland Lakeview Terrace

23 Page 23 Please join us on Wednesday March 14 at 7:30 p.m. Bonnie Jay Enrichment For Your Pet Birds American Legion Hall 5309 S. Sepulveda Blvd. Culver City $5 for Non-members Call: West LA Bird Club at Mark your calendar for the Parrot Expo Extravaganza on June 9. You will find all kinds of goodies for your bird(s). The adoption birds will be there to meet you also. Please do not bring birds. Classes in Orange County are on the third Saturday of the month. Parrot Personalities will be presented on March 17 in Orange County at the Balearic Community Center, 1975 Balearic Drive, Costa Mesa. There are more classes at the Marina Village Conference Center in San Diego. There is a new series starting in Hemet on the First Sunday of the month at 1 p.m. The topics are listed on the website. If you are interested, you can contact PEAC at parroted@cox.net or go to the website

24 Page 24 March Speakers: Donna Crossley & Sylvia Skidmore Handicapped Birds & Disaster Preparedness Meeting: Sunday - 2 p.m. March 11, 2007 (Date change due to Bird Mart) No charge for guests. Please join us! Meeting location: 159 N. Cullen Avenue (Between Foothill & Bennett) Glendora, CA Information: or

25 Page 25 February Membership Talk Attending Members Only Drawing Winners Diana Benson, Laurie Martinez, Dianna Stokotelny Welcome New Members Shirley Broger Lyn Green Eglantine Khorshid Deborah Wise Membership up for Renewal? Check date on mailing label! Membership questions, changes, corrections? Contact Fred Lucas via at By sponsoring a NEW MEMBER, you get a chance to draw a Prize Card from our WVBS Glitter Board.

26 Page 26 See page 23 for information on placing your own ad. Ads are free to WVBS members. Breeding cages for canaries. 15 compartments. Handmade. Good price. Have Yorkshire and special canaries for sale. Call Friends of Parrots Rescue and Adoption is seeking volunteers to assist in doing home interviews with prospective adopting parronts in the San Fernando Valley. This usually takes about one half hour plus an e- mail or phone report on the visits. We also need some help in returning telephone calls to people wanting to place or adopt parrots. If you can help, please call Linda Jensen at You would be instrumental in helping to give a parrot a new lease on life. Thank you. If you would like a friendly game of poker, please call Fran at Looking for a group of people who would meet once a month day or evening. MADAM APRIL - Tarot Readings. Available for Parties & Private Readings Remember! Keep those wings & nails trimmed for a happier, tamer & safer pet. Bird Ease Care PAIR OF GREENWINGS FOR SALE Breeding pair of Greenwing Macaws. Great producers, sitting on eggs. In beautiful feather and condition. They come with a huge aviary (approx. 8'x10'). $3500 for pair and cage. Open to offers. Also selling Alpha Genesis incubator. Paid $3600 new and am selling for $2200 or best offer. Birds MUST go to good home with experienced breeder in clean, well cared-for facility. I am in Santa Clarita/Palmdale area. Contact: Suzan Sommer, Sommer Ranch Andalusians, Carl Arrechea, Jr. Shirley Broger Linda Buesching Patricia Cassidy Sylvia Gray Ruth Kain Jon Kranzler Brenda Lee-Zimmelman Jayna Lee-Zimmelman Rick Luckey Hanna J. Strauss Diane Swenson Wishing you happiness and good health on your Birthday and all the days after. COMMUNITY EVENTS HELP.HELP.HELP We have numerous events approaching and need member participation for success. Remember these events help to educate the general public and fund our wonderful speakers. Call Linda at to volunteer March 18 Pomona Bird Mart, come and help in the booth. April 7 Blessing of the Animals, Olvera St. April 13-15Orange County Fairgrounds, Costa Mesa.(More Info An amazing event with all kinds of animals & demonstrations. May 19 Arbor Day. Central Park, Santa Clarita SHOP at these stores, PRESENT your current MEMBERSHIP CARD, and receive a DISCOUNT! Henco Pet Fleetwood St., Sun Valley Leach Grain & Milling Downey Birds & More Hand-fed baby birds Bird supplies & accessories Grooming Boarding Karen Lee Allen S. Normandie (at Torrance Blvd.) Torrance (310) birdsnmor@aol.com Website: birdsandmore.com Disclaimer: Discounts vary from store to store. Some products may not qualify for this discount program. Stores below not honoring current Membership Cards need to be reported to a board Member immediately. WVBS has no control over the percentage of discount or product exclusions. No discounts on live animals!

27 Page 27 The West Valley Bird Society Inc. is a qualified tax-exempt corporation under IRS Code Section 501(c)(3). MISSION STATEMENT West Valley Bird Society offers education about birds and bird related topics and provides a forum for networking with people having similar avian interests Officers and Directors President Vice President Treasurer Secretary Director Director Director Past President Appointed Positions & Committee Heads Webmistress AFA Rep Hospitality Membership Raffle Coordinator Refreshments Outreach Bulletin Editor Sergeant at Arms Christiana MacKnight Hanna Strauss Dawn Camacho Pam Orient Fred Lucas Linda Lindsay Linda Buesching Dorothy Blanchette Honorary Lifetime Members Carol Haley Dale Thompson Platinum Lifetime Members Diane Bock Laureen Mitchell Rose Blume Audra & Steve Silon Ruth Kain Christiana MacKnight & Linda Buesching Anne Burman & Laurie Martinez Fred Lucas Christiana MacKnight Linda Lindsay Linda Buesching Ruth Kain Steve Reverditto Charlotte Nierenberg Nancy Vigran Kristin & Mark Moon Delora & Eugene Stalnaker Patricia & Karl Volger Dj & Bert Blanchette Dianna & Richard Stokotelny General Meetings 7:30 p.m., 3 rd Friday of each month at Granada Pavilion, Auxiliary Hall, Balboa Boulevard, Granada Hills, CA See map to the right. Board Meetings 7:00 p.m. on the Thursday following the general meeting of the month. Call any Board Member for meeting location. All members are welcome. Please confirm with Outreach Coordinator, Linda, at or via at lbuesching@thevine.net or with President via at simsland@msn.com since meeting dates and times are occasionally changed. DISCLAIMER The West Valley Bird Society and its Editor assume no responsibility for omission of advertising or article material. Letters, articles, and editorials do not necessarily represent the official views of the club. They are presented for your information. We believe a wide variety of viewpoints are thought provoking and educational. WVBS assumes no responsibility with respect to quality or health of advertisers claims, birds, merchandise, or services whether sold, raffled, traded, or auctioned by this club or its members. PAID ADVERTISING SIZES AND RATES Business Card $5/month or $25/year 1/4 Page $20/month or $200/year 1/2 Page $35/month or $300/year Full Page Call for Quote Set-up charges for NON-COPY READY ads: $30 Rates are subject to change without notice. Ads must be camera ready or.pdf,.psd,.jpeg, or.tiff format. Contact the Editor at or to voltrot@aol.com Classified ads are free to WVBS members. The fee to non-members is $5.00 per issue. Bulletins are mailed to all WVBS members and various clubs and businesses. Ads run for one month only and need to be resubmitted each month. How to contact the editor: Phone: voltrot@aol.com WVBS membership runs for a period of 12 months starting from the month that you join. The date listed above your name on the mailing label is the month and year your membership expires.

28 Page 28 West Valley Bird Society P.O. Box 8221 Northridge, CA Members with last names R - Z are asked to please bring refreshments to share. First Class Mail to: Friday, March 16 at 7:30 p.m. Scott Echols, D.V.M. Diplomate ABVP Utilization of Captive Foraging OUTSTANDING RAFFLE