By Pamela A Lee | Development Director
Parrots live long lives - as long as 60 years in some cases. That long lifespan, when spent with humans, means a companion bird can experience several occasions where the bird's life can be disrupted and become in need of rescue. The following is a story of one such bird.
Kia is a girl’s name of African origin that means mountain or hill. Kia can also mean “Season’s beginning.” Both meanings describe Kia the Senegal parrot, now in Mickaboo’s care. She is a 30-year-old lady who has climbed many mountains in her life, and she’s once again seeking a new season of beginning.
Kia’s known history began back in 1996, when she was only about two years old. She was found abandoned outside a San Francisco apartment building by a kind gentleman. Fred brought her home and gave her a safe place to live, nurturing her with care and unbounded love. Fred was so moved by his experiences with Kia and his other birds, he sought out opportunities to help more birds in need. He soon became one of Mickaboo’s most treasured volunteers. You can read more about Fred and his contributions to Mickaboo here.
As the years passed, Kia stayed for a while with Fred’s mother in Seattle to provide her companionship. When Fred's mother passed away, Kia returned to Fred’s home in San Francisco. Her toys, sunlit perches, and favorite treats were waiting for her. Fred and Kia resumed their friendship like old pals who’d never been apart.
Unfortunately, their time together again was too short. Fred passed away in October 2023. His thoughts were always of taking care of his birds, and because Kia was so dear to him, Fred’s family reached out to Mickaboo for help. Kia is now being fostered by another caring Mickaboo volunteer, and is ready to climb that last mountain toward her new beginning with a new permanent home.
Kia is near the expected lifespan of a Poicephalus parrot (about 30 years). Her personality matches her mellow age, although a bit of her former feisty self can sometimes peek through. She’s healthy, enjoys a good diet, and loves to be stroked along the back of her neck. Something Fred must have done for her a thousand times.
In her remaining years, Kia is looking for a home full of the warmth, love, and care she’s long enjoyed and deserved. If you are looking to adopt a gentle and appreciative senior companion, Kia could be the bird for you. Please visit Kia’s page on the Mickaboo website and let us know if you are interested or have any questions.
Mickaboo’s mission is to help all birds in need - birds of all ages, temperaments, and health conditions. Please consider donating to Mickaboo so we can continue to help birds like Kia live out their lives in comfort and dignity, surrounded by love.
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