Brainy Birds appeals for long-lasting support
"Volunteers will build bonds with the bird and gain their trust over months and in some instances years,"
In its effort to continue providing care for and rehoming neglected, abused and abandoned parrots, non-profit animal welfare organisation Brainy Birds Parrot Rescue and Rehabilitation appealed to the community for support.
With 376 birds currently in its care, the organisation is at capacity.
Since the organisation was founded several years ago, it has rehomed over 1000 birds.
organisation cares for a variety of parrot species of varying sizes that have been abused or neglected.
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“We can’t take in any more birds unless they are emergency rescues,” said Brainy Birds founder Dee Hendrickx.
Volunteer Natalie Sutherland explained that although abuse and neglect are two of the greatest problems for the organisation, she said malnutrition was another.
“It’s not necessarily that pet owners are giving their parrots too little food, but it’s too much of the wrong food.
“This does untold damage to the bird, which not only affects their organs but their mental health too,” said Natalie.
She further explained that, because of the poor diet the birds have received and the conditions some of them were living in, many of them are fearful, and trust needs to be rebuilt.
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Dee said that, to do this, volunteers work meticulously with one or two birds at a time.
“Volunteers will build bonds with the bird and gain their trust over months and in some instances years,” said Dee.
Brainy Birds is always looking for volunteers.
However, Natalie and Dee both emphasised that applicants need to be physically able as the environment is physically labour-intensive.
Dee explained that the organisation’s approximate monthly running costs are R40 000.
Some of the expenses included in this amount are vet bills, staff salaries, food costs, rental rates, the gas bill, and vehicle maintenance and fuel.
Dee said in order to cover these costs, the Brainy Birds hosts fundraising markets, guides tours, and provides education on the proper handling, nutrition and hormones of parrots.
Additionally, the organisation has its charity shop located at 29 Central Avenue in Eastleigh.
Through the store, it raises funds by selling second-hand items.
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The store is currently in need of household appliances, kitchenware, curtains, and any other items which are still usable and can be resold.
Donations can be dropped off at the shop or at the sanctuary.
Dee appealed to local businesses for assistance.
She invited community members and business leaders to schedule appointments to visit and learn more about the organisation and its work.
Contact 079 426 5572 or visit https://brainybirds.co.za/about/ for more information.
