Dominica Parrot Rescue Update: Jacos In Rehab

The Dominica Forestry, Wildlife, and Parks Division has generously granted permission to share an early December update here re the ongoing efforts to rehabilitate Red-necked amazons in the wake of Hurricane Maria. Each bird is crucial to rebuilding the population of this native Dominican parrot in the coming years. Thanks to Stephan Durand, Dr. Erika Flores, the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW), and to everyone involved with the daily care of these precious survivors of Maria’s wrath. jaco pair

A gorgeous pair of Jaco parrots aka Red-necked amazons in rehab. Aren’t they beautiful? All of these rehabilitated birds will be released back to the wild, whenever possible, as soon as their initial injuries heal.

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A Jaco parrot in recovery after surgery to his left wing

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Dr. Erika Flores of the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW), treating an injured Jaco brought in by a farmer from the north of the island. IFAW was founded in 1969, with projects operating today in 40 countries. The organization deployed a team to Dominica soon after Maria struck the island.

Dr Erika Flores from the IFAW teamDr. Flores observes the progress of Jacos in rehab

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A Jaco post-surgery, just after a tumor was removed from underneath his right eye

Stephen Durand w Dr FloresStephen Durand of the Forestry Department discusses ongoing parrot care and conservation with Dr. Flores.

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Recovering Jacos. Sadly, no surviving Sisserous have been brought in to rehab, post-Maria. I will continue to post updates here as I receive news. Thanks for dropping by– and for your interest in the future of Dominica’s precious native parrots.

All photos courtesy of Dominica’s Forestry, Wildlife, and Parks Division

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In Search of the Sisserou: A Q&A Interview Along The Syndicate Trail

Thanks to Emonews Emonews for the new video from Dominica, featuring an interview with former Forestry Department officer Bertrand along the Syndicate Trail in the foothills of Morne Diablotin National Park. Have you seen the Sisserou Parrot post-Maria? What if the Sisserou Parrot goes extinct due to Maria? What effect would this have on Dominica’s national heritage? The interview covers these questions and more. Hope you’ll have a listen!

Dominica Parrot Rescue Update 11/15/2017

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Today’s update from the Dominica Forestry, Wildlife, and Parks Division/Education Unit :

One of the many Jaco parrots rescued by patriotic Dominicans and delivered to the Forestry Division for care at the captive breeding facility located at the Botanic Gardens

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Thanks to every kind-hearted rescuer for taking the time to help Dominica’s parrots in this time of crisis. Every surviving Amazona arausciaca is precious.  I am amazed that these birds were able to make it through a Category 5 hurricane alive, especially when you consider the incredible damage to their forest home.  Barring any permanent handicap, these native beauties will be returned to the wild once they are ready and able to fly again. Check out those vibrant colors!

As of this writing, no injured Sisserous have been brought in to the rescue center. While one wild Sisserou has been documented post-Maria, the fate of the overall population of Amazona imperialis remains a mystery.