Bald parrot defies doctors

[Donna]

Pushing on in years, the 35-year-old bird lives in Florida, with Cherie Wachter, at the Humane Society of Broward County.

"She has become part of the family and is very particular about who she becomes friends with," said Ms Wachter.

"Of course when people first see her when they walk in they are taken aback, but they soon realise that despite her appearance she is quite a happy bird."

Oscar was taken in by the Fort Lauderdale, Florida, centre 13 years ago after she was recovered during a local drugs raid.

However, it quickly became apparent that she was suffering from a condition that affects birds called Beacon Feather.

Dec 9

"Her disease caused her immune system to become repressed," said Ms Wachter.

"It is contagious and therefore she can't be around other birds.

"Another side-affect is that she plucks her own feathers because they irritate her so much.

"That is why she is bald."

Given only six months to live by the centre's vets, Oscar defied their medical opinion and is still going strong today, albeit short of a full covering of feathers.

She has a couple of growths on her face and one each round her head and neck," said Ms Wachter.

"She is fussy with her friends and chooses carefully who she lets near her.

"She will say stuff like 'who's a pretty boy?' and 'I love you' which is really cute.

"And one of my favourite things is when she sits on my arm and relaxes."

Sporting only four plumes of feathers, Oscar the Moluccan cockatoo, who is in fact a girl, seems oblivious to her almost complete baldness.

[valhalla]

I Love This!     During our long illness with Bart, our Vet stood in total amazement at the wonder of these "critters".     You go, Girl! 

[Lizz]

Donna - where do you get this stuff?     You're the best!!