Media Roundup - March 2009

Funding and sustainability issues plague the Refuge: The Province: Nanaimo parrot refuge seeks funds by end of March to keep operating The World Parrot Refuge, based near Nanaimo, desperately needs funds by the end of March to continue caring for its flock of 700 birds. Refuge co-founder Wendy Huntbatch said the economic turmoil is only partly to blame for the centre's dire financial position. Huntbatch said parrot owners are surrendering their pets more often -- more than 15 birds have arrived since January -- and visitors have dwindled. Heavy snowfall also forced the centre's closure during what would normally be a busy time. Victoria's Times Colonist: Financial woes put Island parrot refuge in jeopardy Huntbatch, a lifelong animal welfare advocate, said she can't accept a worst-case scenario if the centre runs out of money. It has provided a home for life for parrots since it first opened on Vancouver Island with 400 birds in 2004. "I have no idea what would happen. I haven't faced it yet," said Huntbatch. "We simply cannot shut down. You just suddenly get to a point where it's like, 'Oh my God, [money] is not there.' It costs about $300,000 each year to operate the massive facility that allows the parrots to fly in large enclosures designed to emulate natural surroundings. Care for each parrot costs about $500 but medical bills can drive that cost up." Canada.com: Flood of surrendered birds, lack of funds threatens Island refuge The World Parrot Refuge has room to house the unusually steady stream of extra birds that arrive each week, but not the money to pay for their care. The Coombs sanctuary desperately needs funds by the end of March to continue caring for the flock of 700 birds. The B.C. Gaming Commission provides money but that endowment dropped about $15,000 this year in an economic downturn that refuge co-founder Wendy Huntbatch believes is to blame for the centre's woes. Parrot owners are surrendering their pets more often -- more than 15 birds have arrived since January -- and visitors have dwindled, and donations with them.Original post blogged on b2evolution.