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.