Bono has been involved in all aspects of aviculture over the past 3 1/2 decades, as well as being a caregiver to numerous species of parrots during that time. The budgerigar she was given as a child was her constant companion and led her down a lifelong path in aviculture. In the early 1990s, Bono founded the Sussex County Exotic Bird Club and served as president-elect for nine years along with ot
her duties within the club, which included behavioral assessments for adoptions, lost and found, events coordinator, newsletter editor, and the outreach/educational programs for different communities and school systems. There were five sister clubs with a membership hovering near 1,000. In the fall of 2000, Bono was given the privilege of sharing her life with a baby African grey parrot, which, unbeknownst to her, was ill. During his short time on earth, Bono was thrown into a world of having to learn every detail about this species. With his passing, she vowed to continue learning to ensure the best life possible for African greys everywhere. Bono became involved in Parrots At Play, Inc. and is the current vice president and on the Board of Directors. The Parrots At Play Program is a charitable, volunteer, 501 (c) 3 corporation formed for purposes of fundraising to support nonprofit avian organizations helping birds. It is utilized by many avian organizations across the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom. Additionally, Bono has also been a volunteer for The Alex Foundation since 2003. Bono served as Dr. Irene Pepperberg’s assistant when traveling with her. Bono has written or co- authored articles that have appeared in BIRD TALK magazine, Birds USA magazine, MyLifeBook, BirdChannel.com and various bird club newsletters. Bono is also the guest behaviorist on Africangreys.com. Lisa's current column "Shades Of Grey" can be found monthly in "In Your Flock" magazine. In 2008, Bono founded The Platinum Parrot in Barnegat Township, New Jersey, a specialty store devoted specifically to parrots and the needs of their owners. This storefront is the stage for ongoing educational seminars, roundtables and fundraising events. She believes The Platinum Parrot is the first of its kind in the state of New Jersey offering only supplies, while pairing with rescues to help unwanted birds find new homes. Bono joined the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants — Parrot Division in 2009. She is an associate certified parrot behavior consultant, specializing in the African grey parrots. Bono also joined the Association of Avian Veterinarians as an allied professional member in order to continue her education at a whole new level. Educational components for Bono’s knowledge stem from veterinary and behavior conferences, the LLP course: Living & Learning with Parrots, hands-on training seminars spanning two decades and being mentored by some of the most knowledgeable and well-respected veterinarians, scientists, nutritionists and behaviorists in the field of aviculture.
