Rare parrot rescue
With our help, dozens of African grey parrots rescued by Limbe Wildlife Centre are being prepared for life back in the wild, in Cameroon. Dr Andrea Donaldson reports.
Could there be a more perfect way to celebrate 20 years of partnership with Limbe Wildlife Centre, in southwest Cameroon? With your help, Born Free has supported this highly respected sanctuary since 2004, first providing funds to care for orphan gorillas, and then for chimpanzees – work that continues to this day. Now dozens of African grey parrots, rescued this year from the illegal pet trade, are on their way back to life in the wild thanks to a special, spacious aviary – funded by Born Free.
You might be surprised, but our charity has been devoted to the care and conservation of these endangered parrots for many years. Every species matters to us, and African grey parrots are not only incredibly intelligent, but also highly sensitive and social.
These remarkable birds can express emotions and mimic human speech, making them highly sought after as pets worldwide. They are one of the world’s most trafficked birds, with thousands caught from the wild and sold each year, contributing to alarming declines in wild populations.
Since 2019, Limbe Wildlife Centre has made significant strides in their African grey parrot rescue, rehabilitation, and soft-release programme, supported by Born Free. Their state-of-the-art facilities and dedicated care allow them to rehabilitate up to 400 parrots each year. Aided by a flight aviary funded by Born Free five years ago, they give rescued parrots the best-possible chance of life back in the wild.
Our expansive, 242m² flight aviary has transformed Limbe’s release efforts, facilitating quicker rehabilitation and reducing overall captivity time. This has enabled Limbe to rescue more parrots, then release more of these endangered birds into safe places in the wild, helping restore dwindling populations.
At the start of 2024, Limbe Wildlife Centre took in 92 African grey parrots, kept in temporary housing at Mvog-Betsi Botanical Zoological Garden, in capital city Yaoundé. They were all suspected to be victims of wildlife trafficking. Many arrived in poor condition, facing challenges such as parasites, injuries, and broken bones due to their harsh previous environments. Sadly, two of the birds were dead upon arrival. However, we are pleased to report the majority have recovered well and are now making remarkable progress.
African grey parrots in the flight aviary
Limbe Wildlife Centre’s dedicated team of animal caretakers, wildlife specialists, and veterinarians tirelessly ensures that each and every parrot receives top-tier individual care. Many have already transitioned to the Born Free flight aviary, where they are now regaining strength and enjoying the freedom of flight. How wonderful to see the parrots spending every day practicing their flying and singing! With the arrival of drier months in Cameroon, Limbe Wildlife Centre anticipates several individuals being ready for release soon.
The centre uses a ‘soft-release method’, an innovative approach allowing parrots to be gradually reintroduced into their natural habitat. Food and shelter are provided in another specially designed ‘release aviary’, enabling parrots to gradually adapt to their new surroundings before complete release.
“We are immensely grateful for Born Free’s commitment to our mission and the welfare of these extraordinary birds,” said Laura Praill, Limbe Wildlife Centre’s Fundraising and Communications Manager. “Thanks to your flight aviary we are able to accept all African grey parrots needing our help and give the highest standard of care, to ensure the best possible chance of full release.
“We remain dedicated to our ongoing rehabilitation and soft-release programme, as well as caring for parrots unable to be released. Thank you to Born Free for supporting our mission to protect these incredible birds and their habitats. The conservation of the African grey parrot is crucial, not only for the species but also for the entire ecosystem. By rehabilitating and releasing these birds, we provide them a second chance at life and help maintain the balance of their natural habitat.”
Limbe Wildlife Centre is a partnership between the Ministry of Forestry and Wildlife, and the Pandrillus Foundation.