Collin

Collin is very obviously, a cockatoo. Nothing remarkable about that, given they're absolutely everywhere at the moment. What is remarkable is his personality, and that he has found himself at our shelter, looking for a wonderful new home. I'd say Collin is only a youngster, and obviously hand raised. He can't survive in the wild, he is dependent on us keeping him safe. Collin is so sociable he is at that stage where anyone can pat and interact with him, he will bond to any kind being. He has never bitten, and the thought hasn't even crossed his mind. He loves to be patted and scratched everywhere on his body, he is such a sook. He doesn't yet understand that earrings, pretty and shiny as they are, are not on my ears for his entertainment, but his attentions are quickly redirected, and his desire to please and be a "good boy" makes him super easy to train. He loves kisses and cuddles, and so far seems to poop in the one spot. I do refer to him as a "he", however his gender is still not determined.

Like with our other bird adoption posts, I am not going to go into cockatoo facts. Instead, I expect potential adopters to use all the resources at their finger tips to research and understand the commitment, costs, longevity, needs, etc, before enquiring. These are not cheap, short term pets, if you'd like to adopt (and I mean adopt, not shop), then you will be interviewed accordingly. Collin is so special, he deserves the best home, where his intelligence and love will be able to continue. He has no negative experiences with humans, it's important to keep it that way.

Update: Since the applications we're receiving seem to need a lot of guidance, I've put together a short list.

Cockatoos can live for 40+ years. It is important to consider this when adopting. They are noisy, messy and extremely intelligent.
Most people applying are intent on keeping Collin in an indoor cage. This is fine, for sleeping, bonding to you initially, etc. An indoor cage is required to be a minimum of 2 wing spans wide. Consider the wing span of a cockatoo. Additionally, please don't apply if you are not prepared to set up a flight aviary outside for Collin. He is intelligent, and needs environmental enrichment. Add the fact that I've told you he's messy, noisy and long lived, and you'll realise that one day the novelty of having him inside will wear off.

Collin is ready to love you with all his heart. He deserves someone who will do the same for him, and considers what they can bring to his life. Every day, Collin benefits from all the training and socialisation he receives. I can not speak highly enough of his personality, trust and his wish to do his best for me. I will not place him in a home unless I feel he will be valued the way he currently is, and his new owner can continue what we've started.