Occasionally,some outsiders also find M.A.R.S. a safe haven. Look closely and you will see what I mean. The baby ringneck doves, and the baby screech owl, happy and healthy. Their parents chose great nest spots for them. And let’s not forget our resident iguana Gracie.
happy and safe
who is watching who?
keeps her eye on everything
The Melbourne Avian Rescue Sanctuary was asked to host a series of three field trips from Pineapple Cove Academy. We decided to roll it into two groups consisting of 20 for the first visit followed by the second group of 40 children.
The purpose of this visit was to of course have fun, but also to teach the children about caring for different parrots that come to our rescue, what can make them happy, and how their behaviors can be so very different within the same species.
It was a very hands on experience for the groups, as each one was given the opportunity to hold and pet the parrots. For added measure we also introduced Gracie our resident iguana, which the children also held and pet. We at M.A.R.S. send out a big thank-you to Pineapple Cove, the staff who accompanied the groups, and to the children who were wonderful visitors.
Story about the Melbourne Avian Rescue Sanctuary in "Florida Today"
We’re proud to announce that we made headlines today! The newspaper “Florida Today”, with a respectable circulation of 92,285 for its Sunday edition, dedicated a story to the Melbourne Avian Rescue Sanctuary. The article titled “Parrot rescue gives birds a second chance” is featured in “Life” section on the paper.
And we’re thrilled to say that “Florida Today” reporter Chris Kidler also did a video interview with me, which is even featured on the homepage of FloridaToday.com (as of today). Talk about making the news! Here’s the screenshot of the video teaser:
The funny thing is I didn’t even realize the video would be seen by anybody much less available on the website of Florida Today! Wish I would have had some time to put some lip gloss on! 
But this is certainly a terrific great opportunity to spread the word and the needs of M.A.R.S.!
In the video, I talk about how our ultimate goal is to make these birds ready for adoption, and to find a good home for them which gives them a little sunshine and a little love. Here’s the full video, it’s about two minutes long:
As the article mentions, our Florida parrot rescue organization entirely depends on financial contributions. We’re also looking for donations for our yard sales and thrift shop. Please contact us if you have something to donate.
M.A.R.S. is also in need of carpenters to help with repairs, the roof, the driveway and building aviaries. Get in touch with us if you can help us (or know somebody who has the expertise)!
Thanks to “Florida Today” for the great coverage!
I can’t tell you how happy I am that the warm weather has returned! Last week when the evening temps dropped into the low 30′s we really had our work cut out for us. Birds can stand temps around 40 degrees for one night but more than that and you better bring them in – especially any featherless birds! With this ongoing cold snap, suddenly all 29 of our outdoor birds have to become indoor birds and quick!
This is when I am soooo thankful for the M.A.R.S. volunteers. Couldn’t do it without them!
The laughter and good music that accompanies this crazy task really helps to keep the birds happy. Don’t forget the birds do best if grouped together with who they get along with. It’s like the seating arrangement at a wedding or a politician’s dinner!!!
This happens every night until the temperature reaches at least 40 degrees again. Then, and only then is it safe for the birds to be back outside. Keep your birds safe and warm! Don’t let them get too cold and pay attention to your weather report!
Would you like to know more about the inhabitants of M.A.R.S.? Straight from the bird's beaks, hear the stories of Paco, Woodie, Lulu, Mango and others - told in their own words. 
Fund our feathered friends! M.A.R.S. relies on your contributions to bring happiness and well-being to these birds. It's easy - make a donation today! You'll be surprised what you'll get in return.
M.A.R.S. couldn't survive without all the neighborhood kids who help feed, bathe and entertain all our beautiful birds on a daily basis! See how they turn their experiences into all kinds of art. 
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