By Pamela A Lee | Development Director
We have been busy these last few months! Already in 2025, we have had 38 birds (mostly parakeets) surrendered to us, and found new homes for 40. Nubs was one of our more unusual recent rescues, one that demonstrates the vital role Mickaboo and YOU play in saving avian lives.
On a cold December day, the day before a rainstorm brought tornado warnings to the Bay Area, a couple in Santa Rosa, California found an injured cockatiel on the ground, its feet bleeding badly. The couple was able to collect the bird and bring him to a local wildlife rescue where the staff performed first aid for his injuries. They determined that some animal, most likely a rodent, had chewed at least 3 of his toes. The wildlife facility contacted Mickaboo so he could be transferred to an avian vet.
The next morning during the brunt of the storm, a Mickaboo volunteer transported the bird to an avian veterinary hospital. During the drive, the little bird was mostly silent, but began to sing happily when a cell phone in the car rang with a quacking duck tone. This bird had some spark despite his recent ordeal in the wild!
With the generous funding of supporters like you, the male cockatiel was treated by the veterinary team for over a month. He was underweight and dehydrated from being out in the wild, and he had a yeast infection that required treatment. His toes were bandaged and he continued on antibiotics and painkillers. The vets determined that he was relatively young and in good health despite his feet injuries and aptly named the handsome little guy “Nubs”.
Once fully recovered, Nubs was transferred to a Mickaboo foster home in January where he has been thriving. He is able to climb and perch, though due to his injured feet, landing after a flight can be challenging. He’s gained weight and eats well, encouraged by another cockatiel fostered in the same household. Nubs' foster parent says the two birds have quickly bonded and share a cage during the day.
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During March 25-28, GlobalGiving is hosting a matching gift campaign. Eligible donations up to $50 per unique donor per organization will be matched at 50% until funds run out. Would you mark your calendar to help us help birds like Nubs?
Thank you for your consideration!
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