Power to the Parrots: Birds Get First Nesting Boxes After Animal Activists Make a Flap

Yacolt, Wash.—The flap over the planned extermination of a flock of Quaker parrots in Yacolt will come to a head today when Clark Public Utilities, Northwest Bird Rescue, and In Defense of Animals install the first of ten planned nesting boxes:

When: November 30, 2007, 12:00 noon
Where: Intersection of Jones and Amboy St., Yacolt

The green and white birds, indigenous to South America, have adapted exceedingly well to the modern industrial environment. They like to build their large communal nests on top of utility poles, because they are strong enough to hold their considerable weight, which can reach several hundred pounds. Unfortunately, these hefty nests can cause power outages and electrical fires, so earlier this week, Clark Public Utilities began to destroy the nests and gassed three of the birds.

Amidst massive public outcry, Clark Public Utilities came to an agreement with bird advocates. Together they devised a plan to install ten nesting boxes into which the birds will be lured, and then relocated. Clark Public Utilities is donating bucket trucks to install the nesting boxes.

“It’s heartwarming to see the community come together and find a non-lethal solution for these beautiful birds,” said Matt Rossell, Northwest Outreach Coordinator of In Defense of Animals. “Such cooperation is becoming increasingly important when it comes to dealing with harmonious human/wildlife cohabitation.”

For more information on In Defense of Animals, please visit www.idausa.org.