Hello, my name is Cuddles and I am a 20-year-old Umbrella cockatoo. I have recently been handed over to Safehaven Parrot Refuge and am living with one of their ACO’s, Christine, who is my new “parront”.

Life has not been easy for me as I have a severe disability to my legs and feet. It’s been said that I was dropped as a chick and broke both my legs and alternatively I was born like this. Only I know and I’m not telling! Either way I have never had any veterinary treatment. My nails had never been cut and were up to two inches long, further impeding my mobility. Unfortunately, my problems don’t stop there, I have a number of other severe health issues. My nairs (nostrils) have closed and so I struggle to breath, I am suffering from malnutrition and a prolapse.

You may think I am beyond hope, but please don’t give up on me. I have so much love to give and I am the gentlest, sweetest bird you could ever meet. I love to be tickled and cuddled and to love and kiss you. Unlike many parrots I’m not at all fussy and will snuggle up to anyone and everyone. I just have so much love to give.

Since I arrived in my new home I have had a bath and if I do say so myself – I look stunning – well compared to before anyway! Through no fault of my own I was a bit of a dirty, stinky mess. I am eating a healthy balanced diet as I try to put on weight. My favourite is scrambled egg with added vitamins.

I have been taken to the vets. I have finally had my
nails cut – which feels incredible! I have also had lots of tests and an x-ray. Everyone in the vets fell in love with me and three people asked to foster me. However, what I really need is medical treatment which is very expensive.
I really need your help. I am awaiting my results, but I am going to need a number of operations to give me the chance to live a full and happy life. I would like to live another 60 years – but without the pain and problems I have had to live with for so long.