GlendaNS ~ October 2007

[Lisa B]

How did you become involved with Birds?
When I was a child, my Parents raised a few parakeets. (I think I am part Ellie Mae Clampitt of the Beverly Hillbillies fame. I have always loved any and all of god’s creatures.) My favorite back then, was a little parakeet named Perky. Perky would talk and whistle, nuzzle on you. He was a real sweetheart. The seed was planted by my Parents. My very own first bird, was a cockatiel. We watched Baretta on tv and fell in love with his cockatoo. My Dad made a deal with me. If I could save 100 dollars for the bird, he would buy the cage. We had no idea how expensive a cockatoo was. We found out pretty quick at the pet store. I came home with a beautiful male cockatiel. His name was Sunny. He was a wonderful bird and we had a very close bond. I was hooked!

What made you want to share your life with birds?
I knew what joy, love and laughter a bird brings into ones life. I never gave up the dream of owning a cockatoo. I worked in several pet stores over the years. I was always playing with the birds. Just something that has always been in my heart.

How long have you been an avian caretaker?
Off and on all my life. I did wildlife rehab work for over 20 years and during that time I cared for many wild birds. One of my favorites was a crow named Joe. He talked some and would chase bare feet.

What species do you currently care for?
Umbrella Cockatoo, Congo African Grey, Senegal, Cockatiel, Canary and Goulian Finch.

What do you love most about your birds?
That is a tough one. Each bird has it’s own unique personality. I guess that is what I love the most about them. But, I really love the way Maxie gushes over me when I come home.

Do you have a favorite bird book and why?
I have a stack of books on birds. I like Parrots For Dummies, Guide to a Well Behaved Parrot and Guide to Companion Parrot Behavior. A wide variety of great information in those books.

Which bird magazines do you buy/subscribe to?
None, but I collect all the older ones I can find, and I read online.

Do you belong to any bird clubs?
No, none in this area. I thought about starting one. I might someday.

Do you have a special story of a feathered one you would like to share?
It’s a funny one, but it makes you realize how well our birds understand our speech. When we first got Stella (our CAG) she hadn’t had a shower in a long time. I scooped her up, after several attempts, finally got her into the bath tub. I had about 1 inch of water in there and proceeded to splash her a bit. Stella started talking, “Well Stella girl, it will be all right Stella bird. Oh Stella!” I was ROTFL at her pity party. She has since gained more confidence. She glares at us and yells, “QUIT!”

What is the best piece of advice you can offer new parronts that you have learned through trial and error?
Hang in there and keep trying. In 6 seconds your bird might forget it is mad at you. Also, birds understand what we say to them, more than people give them credit for. When training your bird, start with something they like to do, then move on to harder things gradually. Take your time!

Care to share who else shares your life? Pets/Family?
I live on a farm with my Husband of 27 years. Our 4 German Shepherds and 4 Horses. I love country life.

Any closing thoughts?
I love being a member of Birdboard. I have met many wonderful and helpful people and birds here. I have grown to love and cherish the friendship of many. I am sure there are lots more friendships to grow! I am very humbled at being chosen Member of the Month. Thank you and God Bless!

[jimpierce7]

so Glenda is Miss October? How cool!!! Congratulations!!

[Kevin]

Congrats Glenda! You bring alot to this community and we appreciate you bein ga part of it!

[gbird]

Way to go Glenda....well deserved.

[Valo's Moirana]

Originally Posted by gbird

Way to go Glenda....well deserved.

agreed to 100%.... congratulations!

[shadowsmom]

Congratulations Glenda!!!!

[catschair]

What a wonderful choice~ We are honored to have you amongst us, Miss Glenda! Congratulations.

[GlendaNS]

Miss October!

Thank you Thank you Thank you!

All kidding aside, thank you, this is very nice. I feel loved! Lots of GREAT people here!!!

[CrazyforCockatiels]

CONGRATULATIONS, Glenda!!!!!

[Tiki]

Congrats Glenda! Great interview!