At a loss...

[lyoness]

Recently a bird, possibly in need, came to my attention. He's an African Grey that lives (?) in a barber shop, in a conure-sized cage with very few toys and poor conditions. My father and little brother were getting a haircut, and since my father knows of my love for birds, he invited me along. Upon seeing the bird I knew something was up. I asked the old woman who owned the humble shop if she took him home at night or if this was where he lived, but she didn't speak English very well so I'm not sure she understood me. I repeated the question and she nodded yes as if she was agreeing with me, with an amiable but confused smile on her face.
I really don't think she was telling a lie so much as just stuck on the opposite side of a language barrier. I also don't think it's a case of intentional abuse so much as plain ignorance. I'm not saying she's ignorant because she doesn't speak English, I'm saying that she may not be know how to properly take care of this bird. The cage was very messy and the food and water looked unhygienic.
The problem is I have no idea what on earth to do. Is there really anything I even CAN do? Can I contact some group that would discreetly investigate without immediately removing the bird? I'd really hate to have some old woman's bird taken away simply on a suspicion.
Any suggestions?

[kali]

can you find someone who can speak her language to act as an interpreter? or even ask someone on here who might know her language to give her a call????

[Lisa B]

I do not believe that live animals are allowed in any sort of salon type setting. there are strict rules in the beauty business.

I too would find out if someone can break the language barrier, and bring the poor baby a toy. Start from there.

[MaryG1959]

If you are concerned about the diet, take the woman a bag of high quality bird food. She'll understand that.

[nene142]

So sad when you see that for sure! But sometimes there isn't much you can do ya know?

[amanda143]

It's really an ethical dilemma. Do you report her?? Ignore it? Or do you try to find someone who can speak her language and explain things? A lot of people don't like others telling them how to raise their children, or treat their pets. Good luck on whatever you choose. Let us know how it plays out.

[Wilder]

You could always take in some good food and a few toys, and a picture of your bird, and gush over said picture and make it seem like you're a big bird lover and wanted to give a gift to her bird.

Could just be she doesn't know better. Average folk think it fine to shove a bird into a tiny cage and feed sunflower seeds because that's what 'everyone else' does. I always consider it a good thing to give folks a chance to learn and fix things.

[lovesbudgies]

I would do what the others said, try to find someone who can explain things to her. Go with your dad when he goes to the barber shop and maybe take a toy and some good food. If things don't improve after someone talks to her then i would report the neglect.

[Astrid660]

Originally Posted by nene142

But sometimes there isn't much you can do ya know?

Sometimes... and then sometimes one person can also make a world of difference

[Michelle & Fids]

I would start with taking a toy or two and some seed mix in. I'm sure if you ask around someone that comes around there must speak her language that could help you talk with her about the proper care of her bird. If not find out what language she speaks and use one of the internet translators to type up a care sheet for her. And remember more bees are caught with sugar then honey.