Parrots are often known for their larger-than-life personalities and their incredible intelligence, just two of the reasons people seek them out as pets. Unfortunately, far too many make that decision without fully understanding the commitment or the reality of living with a bird who is meant to be wild. Many of those birds often end up abused and neglected, in desperate need of a safe place to go. That’s where The New England Exotic Wildlife Sanctuary (Foster Parrots Ltd)., the largest parrot sanctuary in the northeast comes in.
Following the motto “no cage is big enough,” the New England Exotic Wildlife Sanctuary in Hope Valley offers a safe haven and a loving home for captive parrots who simply aren’t wanted or who have been neglected and abused.
Founded by Marc Johnson in 1988, the rescue and sanctuary has multiple goals – providing lifelong sanctuary to unwanted parrots, providing education to the public about these complex birds, and adopting parrots to suitable homes, when possible.
The sanctuary offers tours by appointment only that will give you a glimpse into life here and an up-close look at its resident birds. (You cannot, however, touch the birds, of which there are more than 400 permanent residents.)
Tours are held seasonally from the middle of April through the middle of December. Although there is no admission fee, the sanctuary appreciates donations of any amount to help continue with its mission.
If the tour of the sanctuary inspires you, you might want to get further involved by volunteering. Volunteers are asked to commit to at least one day of volunteering a week for three months. All training is provided, and you don’t need any experience to get started.
Don’t worry; you don’t have to spend all day at the sanctuary if you don’t have a ton of time. Between three and six hours is the norm.
The sanctuary also offers humane education programs in a variety of ways, including virtual education, internships, and school projects.
Learn more on the Foster Parrots website. Or, stop by its Facebook page.
Have you been to the largest parrot sanctuary in the Northeast? What did you think? Up for an adventure? Go kayaking in Providence for a unique experience and spectacular views.
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