[VIDEO] - The journeys of homeless Video] parrots in captivity across the nation

[Kevin]

A Place To Land - Short Synopsis
A Place to Land follows the journeys of homeless parrots in captivity across the nation, from foster homes in Northern Virginia to remote sanctuaries in Arizona and Utah.

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[jenseits]

I saw the documentary the other day. Was thrilled that my favorite parrot organization was mentioned (Phoenix Landing -- in fact, I think the title is an homage to Ann's mission). I also loved the videos of Biro's macaws, but I have to say that IMHO the part about free flying was presented a bit irresponsible.

I know, leave it to me to be the party pooper, but the film introduced the concept of flying as something that's good for birds, and then showed some spectacular footage, without any disclaimer saying "hey, don't try this at home!". The video didn't even hint at the level of training required before you can even think about free flying a bird, and I can see lots of well-meaning parrot owners thinking "wow, I have to do this with my birds!". The video makes it sound like the way to start is to just go outside and let them start flying... with no caveat that you're going to lose your bird if you haven't done a lot of training with them first.

Okay, end of rant.

With that warning in place, I do think this is a lovely documentary, and the arc of the story is very dramatic. Heart breaking to hear about the abuse some parrots endure, and so uplifting to see them thrive after being rescued.

[New Ekkie Mom]

[QUOTE=jenseits;1399111]but I have to say that IMHO the part about free flying was presented a bit irresponsible.

I know, leave it to me to be the party pooper, but the film introduced the concept of flying as something that's good for birds, and then showed some spectacular footage, without any disclaimer saying "hey, don't try this at home!". The video didn't even hint at the level of training required before you can even think about free flying a bird, and I can see lots of well-meaning parrot owners thinking "wow, I have to do this with my birds!". The video makes it sound like the way to start is to just go outside and let them start flying... with no caveat that you're going to lose your bird if you haven't done a lot of training with them first.QUOTE]

I thought the exact same thing! I was surprised that such a great documentary in all other respects would present free flight so nonchalantly. I completely agree that free flight is good for birds, no question. BUT there is an UNBELIEVABLE amount of training, preparation, risk assessment, and time that MUST be invested before one should even consider allowing their birds to free fly outdoors.

Thanks for making it clear to everyone, jenseits. Hopefully people will see this before they walk out the door with their flighted bird to go try it out.

Danielle