Finding A Lost Bird
When you have lost your parrot first make sure its definitely not inside your house, then start searching outside for them as soon as possible.
If they get outside while you are there you should watch for their direction of flight and if they land in a nearby tree. Also note the time and date that your parrot was lost as it can help in the search when it comes time to post flyers. Often when a bird is frightened and outside for the first time they will circle two or three times then fly straight in one direction. The advantage here is that if you can see the direction of flight you have a good starting point at rescuing your bird quickly. If possible have one person immediately head in their direction while another continues to watch the area. A good tip that can work is to place their empty enclosure outside with the door open and their favourite treats inside, just in case they return to something familiar to them.
Search the local area
If you did not see the direction of flight just walk the local area and keep an eye on potential landing spots your bird may head for. Do not forget to also listen, as your parrot will most likely be calling for you. While searching your surrounding streets pay close attention to any houses that also have birds or aviaries as parrots will often head to these areas. You should check in the branches of trees carefully as smaller parrots can be very hard to spot if sitting still.
Having given your area a thorough search on foot using as many people as you can to assist, you should also try covering a bigger radius in a vehicle. Lower your car windows and slowly drive the neighbourhood while a passenger listens for bird calls and keeps scanning the area for your lost bird. Its a good idea to let your neighbours know that you have lost your bird as it may have landed in their backyard.
Flyers, social media, and lost bird sites
When the first stage of the search has not resulted in finding your parrot the next steps are to distribute lost bird flyers, post on social media outlets, and contact lost bird websites. You will need a clear photograph of your parrot and a list of information such as the type of bird, time and location when lost, if they have an identification band, and a way of contacting you. I suggest if your parrot talks, do not list what they actually say, as you can later use this unique information to help prove it is your lost bird. Create a small poster with the required information and print it out for placing on local message boards, handing out to veterinarians, rescue centres, and for letterbox drops.
Next up is using your social media accounts to help in your search. If you do not use social media platforms get a friend to list your lost bird for you, or use a lost bird service. While most of the lost bird websites charge to list with them, they often have existing contacts and the social media experience that can really help. It can be worth spending the extra money on these services as they offer a dedicated point for enquires to help get your feathered friend back.
Most importantly, don't give up. You need to be searching everyday using all the resources you can.
