One-eyed flightless parrot gets new adapted home

A one-eyed flightless African Grey parrot has been given a specially-adapted aviary to help her thrive.

Monica's new home at Hoo Zoo in Telford was adapted for her after she lost an eye. It has low level perches and a cat flap so she can get in and out and means she can remain with her feathered friends.

The bird has been at the zoo for several years but recently lost her eye after becoming ill. She had her wings pinioned by previous owners, meaning she is unable to fly.

"After losing her eye earlier this year she's adapted brilliantly, and we wanted her to have a space that meets her needs while also giving her friends a fantastic new environment to fly and play," said zoo owner Will Dorrell.

"She's got some low down perches in there, and she has even got her own little cat flap in and out of the house, so that she can still get in and still get nice and toasty warm when she wants to," said keeper Sarah Holt.

Hoo Zoo has also put a deep bark mulch on the floor, so that she is able to scratch, dig, and explore naturally.

Her food and water are placed at ground level while the other parrots feed from perches in other areas.

As well as suiting her needs, the aviary was also designed to give the flock more space and more opportunities for free flight.

"Monica has been part of our family here for years, and she's an incredible little character," Mr Dorrell said.

"She's a real favourite with the team, so this feels like a well-deserved early Christmas gift for her and the rest of the parrots."

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