The Chloe Sanctuary for Parrots and Cockatoos

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The Chloe Sanctuary for Parrots and Cockatoos

www.chloesanctuary.org

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The Chloe Sanctuary is a 501(C)3 nonprofit that gives sanctuary to physically & emotionally damaged parrots & produces educational videos. We provide sanctuary, enrich the lives of parrots in captivity, and educate the public on the nature and needs of these intelligent wild animals.

24/04/2024

Dear supporters,

We're moving! 🚀 Our Facebook account will be closing soon, but we're excited to continue our journey with you on Telegram, a secure platform free from advertisements. On Telegram, you'll not only find us but also a plethora of other interesting channels to explore.

Join us at our new home: [https://t.me/chloesanctuary](https://t.me/chloesanctuary)

We look forward to seeing you there!

Warm regards,
Don Scott

23/04/2024

Dear Followers,

A reminder.

We're moving! 🚀 Our Facebook account will be closing soon, but we're excited to continue our journey with you on Telegram, a secure platform free from advertisements. On Telegram, you'll not only find us but also a plethora of other interesting channels to explore.

Join us at our new home: [https://t.me/chloesanctuary](https://t.me/chloesanctuary)

We look forward to seeing you there!

Warm regards,
Don Scott

The Chloe Sanctuary for Parrots and Cockatoos

23/04/2024

Dear Followers,

We're moving! 🚀 Our account will be closing soon, but we're excited to continue our journey with you on Telegram, a secure platform free from advertisements. On Telegram, you'll not only find us but also a plethora of other interesting channels to explore.

Join us at our new home: [https://t.me/chloesanctuary](https://t.me/chloesanctuary)

We look forward to seeing you there!

Warm regards,
Don Scott

02/04/2024

01/02/2024

# Positive Reinforcement and Discipline in Parrot Training

Training parrots, like many aspects of companion care, requires a nuanced understanding of behavior modification techniques. Among these, positive reinforcement, positive punishment, negative reinforcement, and negative punishment are pivotal concepts. Each plays a role in shaping a parrot's behavior, but positive reinforcement stands out as the most effective and humane approach. Let's delve into these techniques and understand why positive reinforcement is often emphasized in parrot training.

# # # Positive Reinforcement

Positive reinforcement involves rewarding a parrot for desirable behavior, thereby increasing the likelihood of the behavior being repeated. Rewards can be treats, verbal praise, or anything the parrot finds pleasing. This method is highly effective because it builds trust between the parrot and its owner, enhances the bird's well-being, and makes learning a positive experience. For example, rewarding a parrot with a favorite treat for stepping onto a hand willingly encourages the bird to repeat this behavior.

# # # Positive Punishment

Positive punishment introduces an unpleasant consequence in response to undesirable behavior. This could be anything from a loud noise to a spray of water. The goal is to make the behavior less likely to occur. However, this method is used sparingly with parrots because it can lead to fear, aggression, and a breakdown in the trust between parrot and owner. For instance, using a loud noise to deter screaming might stop the behavior temporarily, but it could also make the parrot fearful of its environment.

# # # Negative Reinforcement

Negative reinforcement involves removing an unpleasant stimulus when the desired behavior is displayed. This could be ceasing to ignore the parrot when it stops screaming. While this method can be effective, it is less preferred than positive reinforcement because it can create confusion and does not foster a positive learning environment. The parrot learns to perform a behavior to avoid something unpleasant rather than because it wants to engage in the behavior.

# # # Negative Punishment

Negative punishment entails removing something the parrot enjoys in response to undesirable behavior, such as taking away a toy when the parrot bites. This method can reduce unwanted behaviors but, like positive punishment, should be used sparingly. It can lead to frustration and does not teach the parrot what behavior is desired.

# # # Why Positive Reinforcement Is Key

Positive reinforcement is the cornerstone of effective parrot training for several reasons:

- **Builds Trust and Respect:** Unlike punishment-based methods, positive reinforcement fosters a strong, trusting relationship between the parrot and its owner. Parrots are more likely to respond positively and remain engaged in learning when they feel safe and valued.

- **Promotes a Positive Learning Environment:** Training sessions become something the parrot looks forward to, enhancing their mental stimulation and overall happiness.

- **Teaches Desired Behaviors:** Positive reinforcement helps parrots understand exactly what behaviors are being rewarded, leading to quicker and more consistent learning outcomes.

- **Reduces Stress and Behavioral Issues:** This method avoids the stress and potential behavioral problems associated with punishment techniques.

While positive punishment, negative reinforcement, and negative punishment can play roles in behavior modification, they are used sparingly and only when necessary. Overreliance on these methods can harm the parrot's well-being and the relationship between human and parrot. The key to successful parrot training lies in understanding and applying positive reinforcement effectively, ensuring a happy, well-behaved parrot and a rewarding relationship for both parrot and human companion.

25/01/2024

**The Curious Case of Cockatoo Dander: Understanding and Managing Cockatoo Dust**

**Introduction**
Cockatoo dander, commonly referred to as cockatoo dust, is a unique aspect of caring for one of these charismatic birds. Their dander is a concern for many owners, particularly in terms of cleanliness and potential allergic reactions.

**Nature and Purpose of Cockatoo Dust**
Cockatoo dust is a fine powder produced by specialized feathers called powder down feathers. These feathers grow continuously and disintegrate at the tips to form a talc-like dust. The primary purpose of this dust is to clean and waterproof the bird’s feathers. When a cockatoo preens, it spreads this dust throughout its feathers, removing dirt and debris, and maintaining feather integrity.

**Volume of Dust Produced**
The volume of dust produced can vary significantly among individual birds, but large cockatoos are known to produce a considerable amount. It's estimated that a large cockatoo can generate enough dust to leave a noticeable layer on nearby surfaces within a couple of days.

**Micron Size and Air Filtration**
Cockatoo dust particles are extremely fine, typically ranging from 2 to 5 microns in size. To effectively remove these particles from the air, a High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filter, rated MERV 17 or higher, is recommended. These filters are capable of trapping particles as small as 0.3 microns, thus making them effective against cockatoo dust.

**Allergic Reactions in Humans**
The potential for allergic reactions to cockatoo dust varies among individuals. While some people may experience no symptoms, others could develop allergic reactions, especially those with a predisposition to allergies or respiratory issues. Symptoms may include sneezing, coughing, watery eyes, or respiratory distress.

**Effective Dust Removal Strategies**
Managing cockatoo dust effectively requires a multi-faceted approach:
1. **Regular Cleaning**: Frequent dusting and vacuuming of the bird’s environment can significantly reduce the amount of dander in the air. Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to avoid redistributing the dust.
2. **Air Purifiers**: As mentioned, air purifiers with HEPA filters are effective in trapping cockatoo dust particles.
3. **Bathing the Bird**: Regularly bathing your cockatoo can help to minimize the amount of dust produced. It's important to do this correctly to avoid harming the bird.
4. **Ventilation**: Ensuring good airflow in the room where the bird is kept can help in diluting the concentration of dust.
5. **Humidity Control**: Maintaining a moderate level of humidity in the house can also help reduce airborne dust.

**Conclusion**
While cockatoo dust is a natural and necessary part of a cockatoo’s life, it requires diligent management to maintain a clean and healthy environment, both for the bird and its human companions. Understanding the nature of cockatoo dander and implementing effective strategies to mitigate its impact are essential steps for any cockatoo owner.

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🌟 The Chloe Sanctuary for Parrots and Cockatoos 2024 Calendar! 🦜 Still available! Don't miss your chance to bring a burst of color and joy into your life with our exclusive 2024 calendar. Each month features a stunning, full-color photograph of our delightful flock, showcasing the unique personalities of our beloved parrots and cockatoos. https://www.cafepress.com/chloesanctuarymerch/17374840 📆 Why You'll Love Our Calendar: - **Stay Connected**: Feel closer to our feathered friends all year long. Each image is a window into the vibrant lives of our sanctuary's inhabitants. - **Beautifully Designed**: High-quality printing brings each bird's character to life, making it a perfect addition to your home or office. - **Support a Great Cause**: Every purchase directly supports the care and well-being of the birds at The Chloe Sanctuary. 🎁 Perfect Gift for Bird Lovers: Whether you're a dedicated avian enthusiast or looking for a thoughtful gift, this calendar is sure to captivate and inspire. Share the beauty and spirit of these magnificent birds with friends and family. Order now and join us in celebrating the beauty and diversity of our feathered friends, while contributing to a meaningful cause. Let's make 2024 a year of joy and connection with nature! 🦜💖 **The Chloe Sanctuary for Parrots and Cockatoos** - Where Love Takes Flight. 🌈 --- https://www.cafepress.com/chloesanctuarymerch/17374840

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Our Story

The Chloe Sanctuary uses proven methods to help physically and emotionally damaged parrots and cockatoos heal, providing them sanctuary for life in an environment tailored to their needs.

With recent estimates of up to 60 million captive psittacines—the larger species living up to 80 years—the need to train caretakers and inform the public is daunting. The average person bringing home a parrot does not realize that these creatures are like a two-year-old with a pair of pliers and a foghorn. Seeing education as the key to protecting these unique creatures, we use educational video productions to inform the public about these exceptional wild animals.

When you are involved in parrot rescue you see many things: suffering, neurosis and psychosis. Often I see eyes darkened by futility. They have given up. They have reached the point where they would rather die than continue living. Life has become a living hell where the one that they wanted to love has turned into a demon. Because of that demon they become raving, screaming creatures that would do anything to make the pain stop. There is nowhere to turn; they live in a nightmare world.

This is how most people come to us. As rescuer, we naturally take the first paragraph to mean the suffering of birds. No, I am not talking about a parrot being relinquished. I am describing many of the people who turn over their birds to us. Often they are close to mental breakdown. They never dreamt that the sweet-looking, cuddly cockatoo they brought home would turn them into awful, spiteful people who throw things at cages and yell “stop it” at the top of their voices. Often they have abandoned the bird to its cage by then being afraid of another bite. Many times they cover the cage to stop the incessant screaming. Most of them would feel contempt for someone who treated a dog the way they have been treating their bird. In truth, I think most of them feel contempt for themselves. They hate what they have become.

Not all those relinquishing a bird come to us in this state of mind. Quite a few do.

What is the usual cure? We take the bird from them and let them return to their lives. Once the bird is gone they no longer scream “shut up” while their faces turn into masks of anger and frustration, they are no longer consumed by the need to outwit the harpy that has stolen their peace. The incessant sound of squawking is gone. The beautiful bird they once wanted is now living somewhere else and it doesn’t matter where. They cannot help feeling that they somehow failed the bird and this still haunts them; time slowly heals those wounds. They feel as if they brought home a Persian rabbit and watched it slowly turn into a monkey with wings. Those eyes, those knowing and intense eyes, no longer look at them with reproach from behind the cage bars. The beak no longer threatens them with pain. The nightmare is over.

It is our ignorance of their nature, our ignorance of the preventive measures, our ignorance of the antidotes that turns these beautiful creatures into living gargoyles. Bertrand Russell, the great Western philosopher, responded to the phrase “Ignorance is Bliss” this way: “Only the ignorant would think so.” Ignorance is not inborn. Ignorance can be treated by education. I know, I was once as ignorant of the plight of parrots as everyone else. Chloe was the stimulus that brought me to awareness. Because of her I sought the knowledge that gives me the power to help them.

Parrots and cockatoos take us by surprise. Even though they are a mystery they seem safe enough behind those metal bars and most people are comforted by that. “I can bring it out when I feel like it and then put it back,” many would say. No one tells them that having a parrot is like having a five-year-old with a pair of pliers and a foghorn. No one mentions to them that the five-year-old will go through puberty and be a teenage five-year-old. No one mentions that they are the last true dinosaurs still living on land and reminds of them of what happened in Jurassic Park. No one mentions that most will die if released into the wild. Parrots and cockatoos in captivity are still wild in nature. You can break their spirit but they will always remain wild.

Usually, the personality changes come slowly over a period of weeks. A young parrot will respond to the inappropriate petting of a human. Most people sexually arouse these wild animals and bring out their protective instincts by petting them down the back or under the wings. There are so many pitfalls that in a short time the birds have been taught to bite, scream and act like angry children. It’s not the bird’s fault. And, since the people have no idea what a parrot is, it’s not their fault either. A frustrated parrot can bring out the worst in those who do not understand their nature. Only education can change the vicious cycle of adoption, fear and loathing, and relinquishment.

Rescues and sanctuaries are usually filled up. There is no room at the inn. Just finding a rescue or sanctuary is hard and finding a place for a bird can be an immense hurdle. Finding those willing to help you to work out the issues with your bird is even harder. Most people do not look for help because they are already at wit’s end. They were taught as children to take responsibility and they try to find solutions themselves. With parrots, this is a shot in the dark and it rarely works. They give up and then find out that no one can take the bird.

Guilt, fear, anger and sadness often consume those who give up their parrot. All we tend to see is the malnourished bird, with its chewed feathers and glassy eyes—like a doll’s eyes. It is hard for us to see the suffering of the people who relinquish the parrot. It’s true that some people treat parrots as a commodity and a source of income; I wonder what makes people so callous, so unaware of the beauty of life. But most of the people we see are those who made a hasty choice and find themselves in living hell, torn between guilt and frustration.

If we can learn to see that both sides suffer then we can apply a salve to both wounds healing both the human hearts and the winged ones as well. The more we educate others the less suffering there will be on both sides. I have seen the joy in a parrot’s eyes that has a new life with a caring and loving companion. For me, nothing compares to that feeling, nothing. To see even one bird love and trust again is worth the effort of a lifetime.

As we spread the word about the true nature of parrots and cockatoos they will find loving companions. We will also help others to avoid the pain and suffering that goes with trying to own something beyond their understanding.

Parrots live in a different world far removed from humanity. They bring that world with them in their genes. Education is the bridge between those worlds. It is our mission. Saving lives is so much more than re-homing parrots. Re-homing and fostering stops the bleeding. Education has the potential to end the suffering once and for all.