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Hi Everyone,
We (my husband and I) are moving down to your amazing land soon. We have done PMVs, found a place to live and jobs...
My passion (if you couldn't guess by my name) is birds. I've had this dream to open a bird rescue/sanctuary in the next 10-15 years (we have the money to get something like this started, etc, etc)... my question... I know there are dog/cat rescue places, but is anyone aware of any bird sanctuaries? Just wondering (I know I'll learn more about it when we get down...) Thanks for any input.
Oh - by the way... we will begin on St. Thomas... could end up doing this on any of the three islands (assuming of course that it's even approved by the regulation people!) Thanks! 🙂
Posted : May 20, 2007 6:57 pm
Aren't bird sanctuaries usually set up for migrating birds, or wetlands for waterfowl? I don't think there would be much call for either on STX. Don't know about other islands.
Posted : May 20, 2007 8:02 pm
There are a few wildlife refuges on STX run by US Fish and Wildlife. All wildlife on the refuges are protected, including birds, but that is all government run. There are a few threatened and endangered species of wild birds like the brown pelican and least tern but again, to do anything with those you would need the appropriate qualifications, federal and local permitting -- which is difficult and arduous to get. Not quite sure if there would be any demand for non-wild bird rescue since the population is small and there may not be all that many pet birds around (compared to the number of dogs and cats) in need of help. Perhaps talk to some local vets to see if there would be any demand?
Posted : May 20, 2007 8:54 pm
Topic starter
Ahhh... thanks for the input so far. I should make clear that I am talking about "domesticated" pet birds - parrots, macaws, etc. In the states (I know, VERY different) there are hundreds of thousands of birds that are neglected, abused, given up and, like cats and dogs... they are euthinzed. I'm not about breeding them... NO WAY (already a large enough problem with the birds out there)... just helping birds who need to find good homes or need medical attention. Any other info or advise is much appreciated! Thanks 🙂
Posted : May 20, 2007 9:00 pm
Hello birdz,
I don't know of anything like that on St. Thomas. For doing some research, how about contacting the Humane Society, all the vet offices and pet stores, asking them about pet birds. There is a bird show up at Paradise Point, the business that does it is Feathered Follies & Fotos I believe. You might stop by once on island or call, they might have some suggestions concerning your idea. Coral World has some birds, the person that works with them may have feedback too.
On St. Croix the St. Croix Environmental Association (SEA) every couple months host a Bird Rehabilitation Tour with Toni Lance, a certified falconer and bird rehabilitation expert where she talks about some of the injured birds she helps. Its not pet birds but she'd likely be a great person to talk with about your idea. Perhaps if you call SEA they could get a message to her for you or help you get in touch with her, their number is (340) 773-1989.
--Islander
Posted : May 22, 2007 10:02 pm
