We Are Tallgrass Parrot Sanctuary
Why we do what we do
Parrots like Poppy and Ruggles (right) are exceptional animals. Though for 20 years, we have been committed to protecting them and other exceptional birds in their flock, we are also realists. Parrots can live 50 or more years. We know what happens when people realize the pretty bird they thought would be a fun pet turns out to be much more work than they bargained for. We’ve seen what happens when family members aren’t prepared to handle Grandma’s “pretty boy” when she passes away.
To help people and birds in these situations, Tallgrass actively networks with animal welfare organizations, the veterinary community, conservation organizations and even human services groups, promoting the health and safety of captive parrots. For their sakes and ours.
Javi (left) arrived smelling of stale cigarette butts and rotted garbage. Her name was Hobby but we soon changed it to Javi, (pronounced “Ha-Vee”) because no living being should be someone’s hobby. Birds like Javi are why we do what we do.
I wish that I could say that she was a unique case, but sadly there are thousands of Javis out there. Parrots are not domesticated animals, even if they have been born into captivity and sold as “pets.” We may tame them but they still are wild.