THE GORGEOUS BUT GRUMPY MAJOR MITCHELL’S (LEADBEATER’S) COCKATOO IS OUR BIRD OF THE MONTH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The Major Mitchell’s or Leadbeater’s Cockatoo is often kept as a pet bird, but; unfortunately, it is one of the less suitable and more expensive pet cockatoo’s that can be chosen as a pet. They are a joy when they are young and hand-raised; but, they often become aggressive as they mature, and many end up as only suitable for an aviary. If a Major Mitchell’s is to be kept as a pet, it will need some firm handling to stop it from becoming dominant as it matures. It is also a destructive chewer, and has a very loud "shout" at times.  This gorgeous bird with its Native American Headdress-like crest is small; only weighing between 300 and 400 grams and is about 14 inches long.  They are indigenous to Australia and are considered “vulnerable”, in the wild, under the Endangered Species Act; because they do not acclimate well with humans who move into their home territories. These cockatoos have a bad reputation when it comes to intra-species aggression (males attacking females).  Each bird should have a Cage that measures about 24"W X 30"L X 30"H, with three feeding stations (water, pellets & fruit-veggies). They can be strong and active chewers so Manzanita perches are recommended. They should have several toys including some that they can chew.  Their daily diet should consist of: A bowl of soft food (fresh fruits, vegetables and a cooked bean mix); a bowl of dry food that is 1/2 seed mix and 1/2 pellets; and, of course, fresh water. During the breeding season, supply sprouted seeds whether you have a single bird or breeding pair.   These awesome little fellows do not reach sexual maturity until they are three to four years old. These Cockatoos have been known to breed for up to 37 years!  Their life span can range between 40 and 100 years, so PLEASE put much thought and planning into who will care for your friend after you are departed; BEFORE you spend the $3,000.00 to $4,000.00 that they cost; to have one of your own.

Bird Sanctuary of the Month

AMY JOYCE IS DEDICATED TO AMAZONS AND EVERY COMPANION BIRD ON THE PLANET!!  In our continuing effort to enlighten our readers about Sanctuaries, Rescues and the like; we again bring you a shining example of how Rescues and Sanctuaries can and do successfully operate within the field of business, in providing goods and services to the public, to help support their ultimate goal of SAVING EVERY BIRD, ONE BIRD AT A TIME.  Amy Joyce is my personal friend and a lady who has worked hard, against extreme odds and illness to rescue, socialize and rehome birds who are in need; while keeping the ones who are unlikely to find suitable companion homes with her forever.  Amy has long had a dream to end the need for rescue, by educating humans about how to care for and interact with their companion birds – to teach them to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles that stand in the way of happiness for both the bird and their human companions.  Amy has at long last realized her dream of becoming a CERTIFIED AVIAN SPECIALIST and opening her own company to meet this end.  The AVIAN EDUCATION AND MANAGEMENT COMPANY is now open to serve you.    (JAN S.)