Skippy’s Survival Spirit

Well, it’s been a long haul, but due to the dedication of the MOST (Macramé Owl Sanctuary Team), Skippy celebrated his first outing with some of the newer Macramé Owl Residents on a day out in Roath Park, Cardiff on Saturday the 23rd of July 2011. Nearly two years after his immigration to the UK (and plenty of bed rest), Skippy was up and at ‘em, eagerly bouncing around trees and amid flowers on a sunny afternoon.

Our very own MORE (Macramé Owl Rehabilitation Expert), Viv Foley, has developed a special bond with Skippy. She’s been his personal coach through the hard times, encouraging him to redevelop his communication skills (due to his lack of beak). As you’ll see below, he’s certainly got his confidence back!

Skippy moves in for a close up! He’s certainly not camera shy. Zoe Jones, our newest MOST member and MOJO (Macramé Owl Jolly Organizer) had the idea for the excursion to Roath Park. Skippy’s zesty enthusiasm was admirable. Greg, our top MOWRON (Macramé Owl Welfare Rescue Operations Nurse) is very skilled at Macramé Owl handling, and managed to calm Skippy down well enough to get him still for a proper photo of this memorable occasion.

Skippy Stabilizes

Update
18 August 2009

While Skippy has stabilized, he remains in ICU. The jaundice has persisted. We suspect this may be the long term result of poor nutrition. Skippy has been assessed by an RMN (Registered Macramé Nurse) and we are now seeking a professional to perform reconstructive surgery, and a donor for a beak transplant.

Update
12 September 2009

A suitable beak donor has still not been located, and hope for Skippy’s complete recovery is diminishing. He remains in ICU under 24 hour surveillance.

Update
18 January 2010

We have accepted that a beak donor is unlikely to be found. Skippy’s remarkable lust for life is an inspiration. Somehow, he has pulled through the worst stages of his trauma. The RMN says that while Skippy’s original colouring may never return, it is believed that he will be able to survive long term without a beak. Astonishing.

Skippy Gets Immigration Clearance

Update
2 August 2009

Skippy was cleared by immigration for entry into the UK two days after his arrival from Australia (31 July 2009). While his journey had been highly insured, the container he was shipped in showed signs of a harrowing ordeal.

I was horrified to discover that the ordinarily sprightly, vibrantly-coloured blue and red Macaw Macramé Owl had become jaundiced, had lost its beak, and was generally tattered and worn. Skippy was immediately admitted to our ICU (intensive care unit) and we are hoping he will improve soon.

Lavinia Alights

Variety
Elegansh Macramé Owl

Admitted
18 September 2009

Initial Assessment and History
The long awaited Lavinia arrived today from Minnesota, USA requiring some fluffing, but in otherwise stable condition. She is distancing herself from Lawrence, however, we hope this is just initial shyness, and that the two will pair up in due course.

Read more about Lavinia.

Madeleine Moves In

Variety
Whimsical Macramé Owl

Admitted
17 September 2009

Initial Assessment and History
Curious onlookers have been spying on this admission more than any other. Astonishing specimen Madeleine has already caused a stir among sanctuary residents, with her “come to barn” eyes. Whispers of “your nest or mine?” have been heard, and we are vigilant that she may need protection from harassment from some of the males. She clearly possesses magical qualities, and her tassels are outstanding.

Read more about Madeleine.

Betty Bobs Up

Variety
Plushkin Macramé Owl

Admitted
17 September 2009

Initial Assessment and History
Baby Plushkin Betty is sweet as can be. She is clinging to big brother Barney, as she appears to be feeling vulnerable. She is being closely monitored since her arrival with brother Barney from Florida.

Read more about Betty.

Barney Blows In

Variety
Plushkin Macramé Owl

Admitted
17 September 2009

Initial Assessment and History
Brother and sister Plushkins Barney and Betty are currently inseparable as they rely on each other for comfort while they settle in, having travelled all the way from Florida, USA. Nervous among their elders, we’re certain they will gain confidence once they find their feet. (They arrived without feet.)

Read more about Barney.

Alfonso Arrives

Variety
Whimsical Macramé Owl

Admitted
4 August 2009

Initial Assessment and History
Alfonso came to us from Brooklyn, NY, USA and his accent is unmistakable! His unique look matches his personality. He’s a very happy-go-lucky chap and has already stolen the hearts of many!

Read more about Alfonso.

Lawrence Lands in Our Hands

Variety
Elegansh Macramé Owl

Admitted
1 August 2009

Initial Assessment and History
Lawrence arrived all the way from Spring Lake, Michigan, USA. He is the finest specimen of Macramé Owl I have ever seen. He has been extremely well taken care of, and no doubt, this has contributed to his calm and gracious demeanor. He is a natural leader among his species with his cool and charismatic confidence. What a treasure it is to make his acquaintance!

Read more about Lawrence.

Skippy Survives the Long Journey

Variety
Macaw Macramé Owl

Admitted
31 July 2009

Initial Assessment and History
Skippy was cleared by immigration for entry into the UK on the 31st of July 2009, having arrived from Australia 2 days prior. While his journey had been highly insured, the container he was shipped in showed signs of an ordeal. I was horrified to discover that the blue and red Macaw Macramé Owl had become jaundiced, had lost its beak, and was generally tattered and worn. Skippy was immediately admitted to our ICU (intensive care unit) and we are hoping he will improve soon.

Read more about Skippy.