2007 December 10th Birdchannel.com Interviews Northwest Bird Rescue

Volunteers Work To Save Yacolt Quaker Parrots

Bird rescue groups take action to help find a solution for birds

By Crystal Apilado

The N.W. Bird Rescue and their volunteers worked together to put finishing touches on 24 nest boxes set up on private residential areas to provide immediate shelter for the feral quakers of Yacolt, Wash., while the community debates over different solutions for dealing with their large nests over utility transformers.

The Yacolt City Council asked Clark Public Utility to hold off on removing the birds for four months as they work with various bird rescues to look for a solution, said Lena Wittler, customer communications manager with Clark Public Utility. According to Wittler, the nests on the transformers are their main concern. “We’ll continue to remove the nests as they are built,” Wittler said. “Most likely once a week we’ll go out and remove anything that is visible.” Wittler said Clark Public Utility will continue to remove the nests as they are built until the Yacolt community comes to a final solution. “Most likely once a week we’ll go out and remove anything that is visible,” Wittler said.

Yacolt city has invited local rescues to get involved in proposing different solutions to the community.

Many organizations and individuals are participating in different efforts to help the community. The N.W. Bird Rescue and their volunteers placed twigs, molted quaker parrot feathers inside the nest boxes to provide immediate warmth and homing for the four months. The purpose of the twigs and feathers is to make the birds think they’ve found an abandoned nest, said Christopher Driggins, founder of N.W. Bird Rescue. The nest boxes will help keep the birds alive while Yacolt decides on a solution and long-term goals for the birds.

Driggins’ group received permission from homeowners to place platforms on their land to place the nest boxes. The boxes are set up with hinges to help capture the birds in the chance that the city decides to relocate them. But, if the city decides to leave the birds in the area, the boxes will serve as housing units. Driggins said if the decision is in favor of the quaker parrots staying, then more nest boxes will be needed to account for new babies.

The hopes of the the N.W. Bird Rescue and the community members supporting this effort are that the 24 nest boxes will not only provide immediate shelter from the harsh winter elements, but that they will also serve as a future place for the quaker parrots to build their nests.

According to Driggins, one of the challenges with the nest boxes is that the quaker parrots are imprinted to the sound of the transformers because when they were babies that is where their nest was. “They’re like homing pigeons,” Driggins said. “Quakers know where their homes are.”

With Clark Public Utility’s regular removal of nests from transformers, the group hopes the quakers will go to the alternative nest boxes and feeding areas.

For more information on this effort to help the Yacolt quaker parrots, visit www.nwbirdrescue.com.

Comments On – Volunteers Work To Save Yacolt Quaker Parrots

Good job N.W. bird rescue!Traci, Glendale, OR
Posted: 8/8/2013 12:53:43 PM

sounds like they are doing a great job.Dee, Sandy Valley, NV
Posted: 2/9/2010 9:09:49 AM

Hi, this is Peter, and I am proud to be a Quaker and here is some thoughts for you skins who are so afraid and concerned about our behavior…the “skins” in upper east coast state have got teen girls doing worse than us wild Quakers do when we fool around and/or reproduce. How come when they make headline news about it they don’t get banned or exterminated? It amazes me how “skins” in Pennsylvania, California, Jersey, Tennessee and more states are afraid of a tiny bird “foolin around” and yet skins can’t keep their own fids under control! Just a comment from a Quaker parrot who doesn’t understand some people at all.pj, Fayetteville, WV
Posted: 6/25/2008 10:46:09 AM

For updated information on the Yacolt Quakers.
Please visit; www.bebso.blogspot.com
Thanks for keeping informed through Bird Channel.Christopher Driggins
Founder of;
N.W. Bird Rescue Inc.Christopher Driggins Founder of NW Bird Rescue, Vancouver, WA
Posted: 4/5/2008 1:53:45 PM

Hi All,
North West bird Rescue is pleased to announce that on Easter Sunday, March 23rd.
We installed our fourth and final Nest Platform.
To view photo’s of all four nest platforms visit our new blog. Update’s and changes are to follow.
Please visit ; LINK for Updates on the Yacolt Parrots.
And to view news articles and video clips,
Please visit; LINK
Thank You All for your support.
Sincerely,
Christopher Driggins
Founder & President of Northwest Bird Rescue Inc.
Vancouver Washington.Christopher Driggins Founder & President of Northw, Vancouver, WA
Posted: 3/25/2008 7:27:03 AM

The Town Mayor of Yacolt could have stopped this at the begining. Why isn’t he helping?Confused, Jackson, MI
Posted: 2/14/2008 2:21:54 PM

support the wildlfestephanie, no smithfield, RI
Posted: 2/6/2008 10:12:28 AM

The Yacolt parrots have not really been given a reprieve. Although they have stopped euthanizing the parrots with carbon dioxide chambers they are still effectively killing the parrots. They are removing nests – almost on a daily basis – and causing the parrots to die from exposure. The current weather conditions are colder than normal with temperatures going into the teens at night. The parrots need their nests if they are to survive. Depriving the parrots of their shelter is cause them to suffer a slow torturous death. They are killing the parrots, despite their claims to the contrary.Donna, Waterbury, CT
Posted: 1/24/2008 8:27:48 PM

I think that setting up nest boxes for the Quakers is a great idea, but removing nesting sites is the Winter is not. I understand the concern with the transformers, but removing the nests in the winter months renders these birds and their nest mates homeless and cold. Waiting until spring sounds more humane than letting these poor birds die of exposure.Melissa, Waterloo, ON
Posted: 1/21/2008 7:03:52 AM

good jobjason, harlingen, TX
Posted: 1/20/2008 7:41:15 AM

Congratulations to Joy Tindall and her crew for erecting their first nesting platform for the Quakers. Let’s hope Clark County PUD steps up to the plate, and will accept the responsibility for their past mistakes, and helps installing the remaining needed platforms to help our birds.Anonymous, Yacolt, WA
Posted: 1/13/2008 6:45:49 PM

Thank you N.W. Bird Rescue. People like you help to make the human species look like we might deserve to be here, sharing earth.Bonnie, Portland, OR
Posted: 1/10/2008 11:40:06 AM

Thank god for people like these who care about our wildlife. We should be sharing with all life, not competing with it. I hope the plan works and the birds will be left alone. Please, set a precedent and take CARE of them instead of killing these beautiful, innocent creatures. I would be honored to have them live in my yard.Lee Ratcliffe, Portland, OR
Posted: 1/9/2008 11:01:22 PM

The parrots should be allowed to stay. This was a good article, but neglected to inform the public that other than building the nests on the transformers, they do not pose any threat, now or for the future. They live happily with other bird species, relying nearly completely on backyardbird feeders. They are also known to allow other bird species to live in their nests with them – check out LINK for the basics on our Quaker Parrots.They are a joy to watch, and a beautiful natural addition to the town.I wish I had them at my house!Darlene, Hockinson, WA
Posted: 1/9/2008 10:15:37 AM

Please protect the parrots and all living things in nature!!Linda, New York, NY
Posted: 1/7/2008 11:30:09 PM

My family supports the efforts to relocate the parakeets that are nesting in Yacolt, Wa. These birds should be moved and have a chance at survival! Thanks for your efforts.Alison, Portland, OR
Posted: 1/7/2008 11:02:30 AM

please help save the parrots – hopefully you will have enough time.Victoria, Portland, OR
Posted: 1/7/2008 9:25:20 AM

Please look for an alternative to killing these beautiful birds. What a rare opportunity to see parrots in the wild. The only other time I had that opportunity was in Costa Rica! PLEASE do not kill them. There has to be a better way!!Shelley, Hockinson, WA
Posted: 1/6/2008 9:25:52 PM

We people need to work with nature, the animals, and live together on this planet. We are not the ruler, or superior, we need to respect wildlife and leave them alone – not kill because it is inconvenient. It would be better to work with creating habitat they can survive in, rather than kill them. Eventually we could ruin the earth for humans to survive if we keep it up. It is blasphemy to kill them.Beverly, Beaverton, OR
Posted: 1/6/2008 5:24:28 PM

I am writing in support of saving the wild parrots of Yacolt. I was able to save a baby parrot which had fallen out of a nest 8 years ago. He has become a member of our family and so lovable. Parrots are amazing creatures, and deserve to be given every chance to live within communities of humans. Please do everything you can to help these magnificent parrots! Thanks!Mele Welte, Honolulu, HI
Posted: 1/6/2008 4:08:15 PM

If we can propel people into outerspace, we can find some little space for the quakers. I urge the Yacolt City Council and Clark Public Utility to work with bird rescue groups and local citizens to save these parrots.Kathy R., Clackamas, OR
Posted: 1/6/2008 11:30:23 AM

The fact that this discussion among the City Council, the utility company, bird rescue advocates, and private citizens is going on is a hopeful sign. Surely, humans are creative enough to find a positive outcome that will allow the quakers to live in peace among us.Carolyn, Clackamas, OR
Posted: 1/6/2008 9:29:31 AM

In June, 2007, my agency, the New York City Dept. of Design & Construction, faced a problem at a construction site in The Bronx, NY, where there were three large Quaker nests on tall illuminating poles at an athletic field. The lights on the poles needed replacement, and the nests were built around the light fixtures. I was tapped by the project’s project manager, as he knew I headed Maspeth Bird Haven, Inc. here in NY (a parrot rescue/adoption organization). In turn, I contacted local experts, such as Marc Johnson, Donna Dwyer, Alison Evan-Fragale, and Steve Baldwin, and we removed the nests and safely rescued and relocated some 40 fledglings to the facilities of Foster Parrots Ltd. The parent Quakers rebuolt the original three and two mosre nests within weeks after the project was finished in July. The residents of the Throgs Neck neighborhhod were thrilled, as the Quakers have been there for some 20 years. The day’s event was also filmed by ANIMAL PLANET for broadcast early this yeat on the Animal Precinct program. By bringing together knowledgeable persons inside and outside of our agency. With just a little effort and cooperation, the City of Yacolt and work with private groups to find a humane and logical solution for Quaker removal/relocation.Barry, Maspeth, NY
Posted: 1/6/2008 7:36:30 AM

Keep Up The Good Work.Lisa, Yacolt, WA
Posted: 1/6/2008 6:39:20 AM

Pleasd don’t kill these beautiful birds! It’s not their fault that some irresponsible bird owner who mostly likely just got tired of some they had as pets and released them into the wild! Washington state is NOT their home but they have somehow adapted to harsh weather. They come from a warmer climate and as caring, responsible human beings, a more HUMANE way to allow these birds to just BE must be found and implemented!Jean, Collinsville, CT
Posted: 1/6/2008 5:59:08 AM

I’d just like to say that what you are doing is really honorable.Thank you for trying to save the lives of the many parrots.Hope everything works out for the better and the best decisions are made for the birds.David, Portland, OR
Posted: 1/6/2008 1:20:43 AM

Hopefully everything will turn out right, sooner than later.Evan, Portland, OR
Posted: 1/6/2008 1:14:25 AM

We need to stop finding ways to kill birds and focus on ways to work in harmony with nature. Killing other animals is never the answer. Certainly we’re smart enough to come up with solutions to this problem that don’t involve wholesale slaughter.Amy, Guilford, CT
Posted: 1/5/2008 9:17:17 PM

Since these birds don’t harm anyone or anything, why can’t the nests just be moved to another location? It seems that there are many folks who would gladly help to do this, thus helping the PUD but saving these unassuming creatures. Where’s the kindness in Yacolt?Kathy, Portland, OR
Posted: 1/5/2008 8:56:23 PM

Clark Public Utilities and the City of Yacolt both deserve our thanks for listening to the public and giving us a chance to find a peaceful solution for this situation. They are the ones who get criticized when power fails. It’s a sign of mature leadership to listen and reverse your position. Thank you.Geoff, Vancouver WA,Geoff, Vancouver, WA
Posted: 1/5/2008 8:49:52 PM

Much of the negative information about Quaker parrots is unfounded. Comments about monk or Quaker parakeets driving out native species are inaccurate. Quakers live, sleep, eat, and nest with several different species, including Rock Doves, Starlings, Sparrows, Grackles, and Crows. I have pictures from over the last ten years showing their ability to get along with indigenous birds. Crop damage feared 30 years ago has not been documented. Quakers/Monk parakeets tend to nest in urban not rural areas, thus adding color and beauty to the limited wildlife found in urban areas. Research has shown that monk parakeets do not take over wide spread areas. It has been shown that young birds rarely, if ever, go further than 500ft from their parents nest sites. Quaker populations tend to control themselves because only a certain number of birds breed each year. The proportion of breeding birds may vary with environmental conditions. Even though Quakers reach breeding age at 2 years, they may still reside with parents, remodeling the nest and assisting with the care of their younger siblings. The nesting habits of these birds make it difficult for them to disperse rapidly.Quakers are always working on their nests. Observing these birds it is easy to see that they are hard working and exhibit a strong sense of family and community. Aren’t these among the qualities we as Americans find admirable. Perhaps we should look to these little green birds as a symbol of the hard work and strong family values. I suggest we celebrate the Quaker parrot as we do the American Spirit, after all these birds, native to a South American climate have managed to survive here under much harsher temperatures and despite the efforts of some to wipe the populations out. The United States once had a parrot native to our country, the Carolina Parakeet. However, sadly it was hunted and trapped to extinction. It seems to me we have been given a second chance; let’s not let it go by.I urge the use of utility industry practices that preserve the lives and liberty of the monk parakeets while still meeting the utility company’s objectives of keeping equipment clear of nesting material. Non-lethal measures are being utilized in other states. I am happy to see that the Yacolt City Council and Clark Public Utility are working with the community and bird groups to find a humane solution. I believe that alternate nesting platforms and diligence in maintaining the utility poles will keep the situation from posing any hazards to the power supply. Please allow the wild parrots of Yacolt to continue to fly free!Donna, Waterbury, CT
Posted: 1/5/2008 8:47:57 PM

Whenever an occasion arrises to assist anything in the animal kingdom, it gives us humans a chance to be more than. Our planet needs all of the animals to interconnect and we humans need all the animals. It is so sad to me that whatever public agency is making this decision cannot see that there is ONLY one correct action. It is a chance to support LIFE. It seems so simple to me to put life first. The next time it might be your…Judy, Vancouver, WA
Posted: 1/5/2008 7:16:39 PM

Thank God for people like this Birdman, I love animals of all kind and it”s nice to hear about the good people in this world working hard to help out, hopefully They get the support from the power company and the leaders of the community to resolve the “problem” without killing those birds or leaving them homeless.steven, portland, OR
Posted: 1/5/2008 6:44:14 PM

I think you need to give the Bird rescue a chance to resolve the issueGary, Camas, WA
Posted: 1/5/2008 5:27:43 PM

Having read several articles about the parakeets/parrots in Yacolt, I would like to lend support to Christopher Driggens, his crew and others in their efforts to relocate the troublesome birds.Since there is not a crisis, allowing them ample time to relocate these birds seems the most reasonable course of action to remdy the problem.As an aside, Chris is a member of the Knights of Columbus Council 678 and has shared his story with us on this most recent effort in addition to many other resue efforts that he has made in the past. Those of us who have heard his stories support his efforts and hope will do the same.John, Portland, OR
Posted: 1/5/2008 4:40:02 PM

You guys are the best! Thank you for your heroic efforts on behalf of the beloved wild Quakers. I will be praying for resounding success. Have you heard that the Electric company in New York uses added insulation on their power lines to accomodate the Quaker Parrots that reside there? Maybe your electric company could consult with the New York electric company? See webmaster at www.brooklynparrots.com for details. And thanks again for your terrific efforts!P. Miller, Naperville, IL
Posted: 1/5/2008 2:29:26 PM

The birds are beautiful. so many people my bird feeders and houses to view birds. here you have them beautiful exotic birds. I would love to have them nesting outside my home naturally where I could view themmel, w., bountiful, UT
Posted: 1/4/2008 7:12:32 AM

Quaker birds a loving birds and make an extraordinary pet bird. There are better ways of taking care of a population problem with certain species of animals rather then being cruel and inhumane. Most of the times animals and man kind are almost alike because man kind behaves like an animal when it comes to trying to find a solution to certain situations in our lives like if they didn’t have any kind of principles or emotions or better yet, brains. It’s true these are just birds but so are dogs and cats and any other species and they should not be treated with cruelty. Some times it helps to think that if you do own a pet in your home try to think if you would allow someone to treat them the way you might be treating another animal out side your home. Hopefully this situation will come to a happy ending.Sara, Dacula, GA
Posted: 1/2/2008 10:02:26 AM

Comments On – Volunteers Work To Save Yacolt Quaker Parrotsthey should be able to build a permanent structure mimicing a utility pole for them to nest on.. being from ct. this is a very hot topic we visit hammonasette st park every summer to marvel at their colonies in the trees.pat, bristol CT,
Posted: 12/31/2007 10:04:03 PMI live close to where there is a very large community of Quakers and yes they are a community! The Quakers are not detrimental at all and we should do whatever we can to fight the extermination of these beautiful birds. My friends and I visit them as often as we can and totally enjoy watching the interaction between them. They may not be native to America but how many people are Native to America?Michele, Demarest NJ,
Posted: 12/30/2007 11:11:28 AMIf your child persisted in behaviors that were unwanted or potentially dangerous to the child or others, you would not consider “extermination” as an option. Likewise with the wild creatures in our care. Killing or forcibly moving wild animals because they are successfully adapting to our urban environment indicates not only a lack of compassion, but a lack of imagination. With intelligence and caring, solutions can be found.Judy, San Francisco CA,
Posted: 12/29/2007 3:19:07 PM

Driggins and his group are to be applauded.

PD, Los Angeles CA,
Posted: 12/29/2007 7:32:07 AM

They should be provided their own habitat. Plant Trees they can use. We should all be mindful of not having a place to call home. It starts with small creatures, next it is and are humans..

PD, Los Angeles CA,
Posted: 12/29/2007 7:30:45 AM

I don’t see why the birds can’t be left with nest boxes and supervised during there breeding season in making sure that they are not bring harm to the comunity.As I see it they have been there for years and because of one power line they should be destroyed.Is it not our jobs to maintain the power lines any way for any and all situations.These birds did not ask to be here,but they are and we the people need to ajust toit.Not destroy them.Maybe a little better regulations and punishment should be forced more towards the companys that let this happen.I here people saying well they are not native here.My question to that how many animals living in the Northwest are.Should they be destroyed?

Tracy, Vancouver WA,
Posted: 12/28/2007 11:04:13 PM

I’m sure there can be some agreement to come to for this situation. If people are willing, why not relocate them all to properties that have nesting boxes set up for that reason. I sure know I would love to have those entertaining birds in my backyard.

Kyla, Miami FL,
Posted: 12/28/2007 8:42:34 PM

*** E-Mailed to N.W.Bird Rescue on 12/28/07****
Thanks for your comment Steve.
**Comment added by Chris Driggins.

My thought on helping your Quakers, as we have been fighting to help ours in Edgewater NJ.

If the power company could take the time to have the wires that go into and out of the transformers mounted onto the transformers side itself instead of looping up and out away from the transformer giving a great foot hold for a Quaker to start hanging its sticks to build it’s nest you could solve most of the nest building problems on most of the transformers.
The idea is to keep everything on that transformer and pole as sleek and smooth as possible to keep the Quakers from getting a foot hold to start a nest (In other words to hang a stick to start a nest.)
If that means tin siding from the pole to the transformer to keep the Quakers from building behind the transformers as they do in Edgewater New Jersey, or A tin cap over the top of the transformer to keep the Quakers from getting a nest started on the top, then they should do it.
And yes, we know the transformers need to breathe so they don’t over heat, So I’m not at all suggesting to enclose them in tin just think sleek or smooth with no place to hang a stick/nest.
In the long run it will eventually be cost effective instead of sending manpower and equipment out and looking really bad in the public’s eye.
I might add that we already killed off one species of parrot that lived in the continental USA called the Carolina Parakeet, then why go down the same road again?

Good luck and keep fighting

Steve, Hillsdale, NJ,
Posted: 12/28/2007 8:39:30 PM

If other cities can find humane alternatives I do not understand why Yacolt could not as well. I have been to see the quakers wild in the Chicago area and they are just wonderful. They are beautiful and they have every right to live. They are merely just trying to survive, what right does any human have to come in and take that right away from them and kill them. Chris Driggins and everyone else that are helping with this issue to ensure the quakers are safe and with homes thank you and please keep this up.

Stephanie, Urbana IL,
Posted: 12/28/2007 7:47:17 PM

If the birds can remain free-flying and be protected from the harsh elements with the nest boxes and platforms being put up, that would be ideal. Hopefully they will adopt the new housing being put up for them. Thanks to all the people putting so much effort forward to care for these birds.

Connie Durkee, Battle Ground WA,
Posted: 12/28/2007 5:21:10 PM

I think it’s obvious that the eyes of the whole country are on Yacolt. How you end up treating the wild Quakers there will be a reflection upon your entire community. Would you want to be known as “Yacolt, Washington: The Place That Murders Harmless Avian Friends”? Especially considering that there are many other cities that celebrate their wild Quakers.

Rich, Brooklyn NY,
Posted: 12/28/2007 7:21:30 AM

The plight of wild populations of Monk Parakeets (aka Quaker Parrots) is a concern in many states at this time, and there are viable solutions which would allow Washington to set a positive example of how we, as a nation, cooperate with wildlife in our country.

Killing should never be an option, much less a first choice, in the effort to manage wildlife populations.

In several other states, individuals and wildlife groups work cooperatively with power companies to assist in controlling populations of Monk Parakeets. For example, in my home state of New Jersey, my organization, Edgewater Parrots, works with PSE&G to find humane solutions for nest tear downs, avoiding the killing of baby birds and discarding eggs. Because we worked together, we found humane and amicable solutions, including the appropriate timing of nest tear downs and options to nest tear downs, such as the use of ceramic sleeves, orange colored envelopes, balloons, mirrors, and ultrasonic sound.

Additionally, Edgewater’s Mayor and Council voted to allow Edgewater Parrots to begin construction of our alternative nesting platforms in parks throughout the Borough.

As you can see, there are many alternatives to killing. The utility company in Yacolt should welcome public discussion within the community and with other power companies who face the same situation. Such communication would result in viable and cost effective solutions to this problem, while allowing protection to Monk Parakeets, as well as allowing Yacolt’s community to continue to enjoy and respect wildlife.

Working with the community is excellent PR for the utility company—-murdering innocent birds while they sleep and submitting them for research is not. At a minimum, they should realize that they are creating a public relations problem that exceeds any benefit they think they might gain by slaughtering the birds.

I can’t help but wonder why the Clark Utility Company has chosen to kill parrots instead of re-engineering

All Over the, USA, WA
Posted: 12/31/2007 10:08:44 PM

they should be able to build a permanent structure mimicing a utility pole for them to nest on.. being from ct. this is a very hot topic we visit hammonasette st park every summer to marvel at their colonies in the trees.pat, bristol, CT
Posted: 12/31/2007 10:04:03 PM

I live close to where there is a very large community of Quakers and yes they are a community! The Quakers are not detrimental at all and we should do whatever we can to fight the extermination of these beautiful birds. My friends and I visit them as often as we can and totally enjoy watching the interaction between them. They may not be native to America but how many people are Native to America?Michele, Demarest, NJ
Posted: 12/30/2007 11:11:28 AM

If your child persisted in behaviors that were unwanted or potentially dangerous to the child or others, you would not consider “extermination” as an option. Likewise with the wild creatures in our care. Killing or forcibly moving wild animals because they are successfully adapting to our urban environment indicates not only a lack of compassion, but a lack of imagination. With intelligence and caring, solutions can be found.Judy, San Francisco, CA
Posted: 12/29/2007 3:19:07 PM

Driggins and his group are to be applauded.PD, Los Angeles, CA
Posted: 12/29/2007 7:32:07 AM

They should be provided their own habitat. Plant Trees they can use. We should all be mindful of not having a place to call home. It starts with small creatures, next it is and are humans..PD, Los Angeles, CA
Posted: 12/29/2007 7:30:45 AM

*** E-Mailed to N.W.Bird Rescue on 12/28/07****
Thanks for your comment Steve.
**Comment added by Chris Driggins.My thought on helping your Quakers, as we have been fighting to help ours in Edgewater NJ.If the power company could take the time to have the wires that go into and out of the transformers mounted onto the transformers side itself instead of looping up and out away from the transformer giving a great foot hold for a Quaker to start hanging its sticks to build it’s nest you could solve most of the nest building problems on most of the transformers.
The idea is to keep everything on that transformer and pole as sleek and smooth as possible to keep the Quakers from getting a foot hold to start a nest (In other words to hang a stick to start a nest.)
If that means tin siding from the pole to the transformer to keep the Quakers from building behind the transformers as they do in Edgewater New Jersey, or A tin cap over the top of the transformer to keep the Quakers from getting a nest started on the top, then they should do it.
And yes, we know the transformers need to breathe so they don’t over heat, So I’m not at all suggesting to enclose them in tin just think sleek or smooth with no place to hang a stick/nest.
In the long run it will eventually be cost effective instead of sending manpower and equipment out and looking really bad in the public’s eye.
I might add that we already killed off one species of parrot that lived in the continental USA called the Carolina Parakeet, then why go down the same road again?Good luck and keep fightingSteve, Hillsdale,, NJ
Posted: 12/28/2007 8:39:30 PM

I live in Edgewater, New Jersey, where we happily co-reside with a population of 230 Monk Parakeets. Our local utility company, PSE&G, successfully manages our large population of Monk Parakeets, without having to resort to killing.The plight of wild populations of Monk Parakeets (aka Quaker Parrots) is a concern in many states at this time, and there are viable solutions which would allow Washington to set a positive example of how we, as a nation, cooperate with wildlife in our country.Killing should never be an option, much less a first choice, in the effort to manage wildlife populations.In several other states, individuals and wildlife groups work cooperatively with power companies to assist in controlling populations of Monk Parakeets. For example, in my home state of New Jersey, my organization, Edgewater Parrots, works with PSE&G to find humane solutions for nest tear downs, avoiding the killing of baby birds and discarding eggs. Because we worked together, we found humane and amicable solutions, including the appropriate timing of nest tear downs and options to nest tear downs, such as the use of ceramic sleeves, orange colored envelopes, balloons, mirrors, and ultrasonic sound.Additionally, Edgewater’s Mayor and Council voted to allow Edgewater Parrots to begin construction of our alternative nesting platforms in parks throughout the Borough.

I can’t help but wonder why the Clark Utility Company has chosen to kill parrots instead of re-engineering its assets to dissuade the parrots from building their nests in utility poles.

The utility company has alto of humane choices available to them and alot of individuals who want to help.

The decision of whether or not to utilize those options is theirs. Continuing to kill leaves neither them, nor the birds, any options.

PSE&G has agreed to talk to the Clark County Utility company to share their successful management strategies, but, for some reason, Clark has not contacted PSE&G.

If PSE&G is willing to share their successful management strategies, why won’t the Clark Utility company listen? Don’t they want to learn? Do they favor killing over compassion and feasible, viable solutions? Based on their actions, I can only conclude that killing is something they prefer to do.

All I can say is, if PSE&G can successfully manage a population of 230 Monk Parakeets, Clark County should be able to manage a population of 16. If they can’t, then the utility company is the problem-not the wild Monk Parakeets.

Sincerely,
Alison Evans-Fragale, Director
EdgewaterParrots.com
Alison@EdgewaterParrots.com

Alison, Edgewater, NJ
Posted: 12/27/2007 10:32:56 PM

To whom it may concern, many communities have quaker parakeets in their midst and most live very peaceably with them. Violence is the first resort of a limited mind and this is a utility company with very limited intellectual resources. They should call United Illuminating of Connecticut and find out just how badly public relations can go before they commit to the choice offered by the USDA. These birds are not invasive in WA nor are they harmful to any native species. They are amazing little creatures capable of suffering and pain and to capture and kill them is neanderthalic behavior.Marc, Rockland, MA
Posted: 12/27/2007 4:58:42 PM

I’ve been studying the wild Quaker Parrots that live in Brooklyn since 2005. Since that time I’ve conducted free monthly “Wild Parrot Safaris” in that borough that have been immensely popular with people of all ages and ethnicities. Even our borough President Marty Markowitz has gone on record saying that the fact that there are wild parrots living here is a source of civic pride (as well as eco-tourism).I have not noticed that our wild parrots have had any adverse effect on any other flora or fauna here in Brooklyn. The biggest issue is their penchant for constructing nests in utility poles.I believe this issue can be addressed in a humane and effective way. Transmission lines can be insulated. Alternative nest platforms can provide alternative living space. It all comes down to whether the power utility and the community (which largely loves them in Brooklyn) can sit down and come up with a constructive solution. This takes time, a lot of hard work, and in some instances a commitment of moderate financial resources which can be raised by private groups.I am heartened by the way the discussion has progressed in Yacolt in recent weeks, and hope that an accommodation between the sometimes competing interests of Man and Parrot can be achieved.I believe that it is an extraordinarily positive thing that there are now wild parrots living again in North America. Our original native parrot, the Carolina Parakeet, was hunted to extinction about 100 years ago. We now have a unique second chance to provide a home for these remarkable birds, but only if humans creatively work toward such accomodations which can make this happen. I am very happy that Chris Driggins and other community-minded residents of Yacolt are working hard toward a happy resolution of this issue, and also think it is encouraging that both the local utility company and local officials are engaged in a dialogue about it.

Steve Baldwin, Brooklyn, NY
Posted: 12/27/2007 9:38:46 AM

I’m glad that a lot of people are working to help the Quaker parrots. I hope they will be able to stay in Yacolt, where lots of people enjoy seeing them. The utility company should be encouraged to put bright orange tags or paint on the transformers, to scare the parrots away from nesting there.Victoria, Stroudsburg, PA
Posted: 12/22/2007 6:02:28 AM

Other areas of the U.S. (particularly Texas and Illinois) have shown that it is possible for people to co-exist with Monk Parrots. I hope the alternative nests prove to be a viable alternative to killing these delightful birds. They have been coming to my birdfeeder (only in winter) for about 3 years now and they appear to co-exist very nicely with the other birds at the feeder. Monk parrots are not aggressive towards other birds and politely wait their turn. (The pigeons are more pushy when it comes to eating!) Monks also do not compete with native birds for nesting sites–unlike many introduced species.It absolutely makes no sense to exterminate these sweet and clever birds when there are humane alternatives.Karen, Brooklyn, NY
Posted: 12/21/2007 6:07:23 AM

Help, don’t hurt, the Quaker parrots.There are many communities around the nation that have learned to live with wild Quaker parrots. For example, Brooklyn, the Bronx, Connecticut and New Jersey have all found ways to let the Quaker parrots have their homes. Apparently, it’s not brain surgery or even rocket science. There is no reason why Yacolt can’t follow the example of other communities in the United States and act in a humane way.Liz, Burlington, NJ
Posted: 12/20/2007 11:54:23 AM

Great work Chris!Melissa, Arlington, VA
Posted: 12/20/2007 11:09:58 AM

We at S&D exotic bird rescue is very happy that Chris is continuing to help these birds.
Its so nice to see and hear someone cares…….Thanks Donnadonna, Keizer, OR
Posted: 12/20/2007 10:28:49 AM

50 years ago, the California Condor was on the brink of extinction, 30 years ago, the American Bald Eagle was building nexts on the electrical towers in eastern Washington/Oregon. Come on folks, we can put men on the moon, but can’t fix this problem for the Yacolt Parrots? The transformers can be covered with a plastic material to keep the birds from contacting them. Put some kind of pole with nests on it and a low-wattage sound device to draw them to the nests. SOMETHING CAN BE DONE! Sounds to me like the parrots are definitely an endangered species. Nancy’s suggestion for Yacolt to adopt these birds as their ‘mascots’ is an excellent one. WAKE UP YACOLT!!!Kathy, Independence, OR
Posted: 12/19/2007 11:11:20 PM

What is the big problem? Give the birds the time they need, this is after all their habitat TOO. We need small creatures to remind us we are not so BIG. Give a crap and leave them alone.PD, Los Angeles, CA
Posted: 12/19/2007 6:58:28 PM

I fully support Chris “birdman” Driggens in his work in saving the quakers. I have known Chris a long time and have frequent contact with him. He has his heart and soul committed to saving birds. Call him in the middle of the night to save any bird and he will drive all night do do so. His committment seems to have no boundaries. Chris has a good business head for working with communities and law makers, and is working thru the correct channels. My observation is that if the utility had let Chris capture the birds BEFORE destroying the nests, it would have been quick and easy. No that the utility company ignored help, took down the nests and were determined to kill all the birds. Of course Chris called in his troups to intervene with letters and offers of support. Without the media to broad cast the dastardly deed the utility company was planning to implement, all the birds would be dead by now. The utility calls it euthenasia suggesting it was humane. A nice tame name that also fits the terms, slaughter, kill, wipe out, murder. Chris seems to be the only voice of reason here,The cause of our planet in peril is because we have taken the fast ,easy, selfish ways in things like this. So, every species on earth is endangered, Due to man having no care for the wild life. Our very lives hinge on saving wildlife. Withhout Bees, no food crops, Without birds, seeds do not get distributed for new plants in new areas. The are the seeders of ou gardens.Lets not keep murdering all our animals. Or we will not only lose the pleasure of seeing then, but entire food chains will perish and humans will go hungry. Famine would be true.Stop the slaughter and nake the big companies responsible to their actions. They should be fined hundreds of thousands of dollars and the money should go into conservation,We kill the aninmals out of lazinss and cause bad things to happen, Each bird will have a home and plenty of therapy to adjust to a home environment,

Chris was right all along,

Linda MacCoy, Beaverton, OR
Posted: 12/19/2007 12:22:42 AM

I think the birds do need help. If the nesting boxes work and the birds move into them more work will be needed to provide care to the birds. This is a good start in protecting and helping them survive.GNoggle, Vancouver, WA
Posted: 12/18/2007 8:26:37 PM

Quakers are not “parakeets” as reported on the news. This lack of education/information makes me even more appreciative of Christopher Driggins” dedication and efforts on behalf of our beautiful feathered friends. It has been shown that other communities can happily co-exist with the Quakers, and even enjoy them. Hopefully our local situation in Yacolt can be resolved with a positive outcome for all.Ann Messmore, Vancouver, WA
Posted: 12/18/2007 8:05:21 PM

sounds like there are alot of people out there offering to do something other than kill those birds. Hopefully a solution will be found that will work for everyone.mike, happy valley, OR
Posted: 12/18/2007 9:27:37 AM

When I first heard of the Quaker being removed and killed I was horified at the thought of this. What has happened to our society that this becomes our only solution. When I saw our local spoksperson from our utility company say that she felt that killing the birds was our best solution I was more than upset. Sometimes you have to stand up and say something. Well, this is my time. The birdman has dedicated his life to our feathered friends and knows them better than we do. I have birds in my home and considered them part of the family. The thought of someone who doesn’t know any better killing them makes me angry. The town of Yacolt is small and could probably use some positive media. Let them be you town mascot and help build them a place where people and enjoy them and they can be safe. Thank you to all of those who have put in their time and money this far in saving the Quakers.Nancy C., Vancouver, WA
Posted: 12/17/2007 10:42:08 PM

I was just surfing for more information on Quaker Parrots and found an article about Quakers in Brooklin, NY. Interesting how they and the wild parrots in San Francisco are celebrated, not killed. A link in the City Parrots website took me to an article talking about Yacolt killing the parrots. What a horrible feeling to read that people in our “own backyard” have even considered that as a solution when other cities are far more humane and even enjoying the notoriety of having a parrot population. Yacolt, please support this man in his endeavor to save these clever little birds.Nancy, Vancouver, WA
Posted: 12/17/2007 10:11:19 PM

Thank you for you good effort in making new nests for the quaker parrot’s. I have seen the parrots in San Francisco and enjoy their free flight. I have also rescued a parrot and she is a joy. I do hope the citizens of Yacolt let you continue your good work in saving these beautiful birds.SUE, Grass Valley,, CA
Posted: 12/17/2007 10:08:16 PM

Well, if San Francisco can deal with the “Parrots of Telegraph Hill” AND get a lot of publicity from them, it seems like the City of Yacolt should have the wisdom to welcome them as a new city mascot.I certainly hope that Yacolt will do whatever it takes to provide appropriate nesting for these beautiful birds.Paula, Sausalito, CA
Posted: 12/17/2007 8:09:58 PM

Great article . . . After reading some of the other comments people have left I would also like to say that these birds started out in the wild long before they were domesticated so chill out. Since when is it a bad thing to try to help work with nature to make this world a comfortable place to live for all living things, including these adorable little birds. I think it’s a great thing that you’re doing. Keep up the good work.Kim & Louis Lownsbery, Vancouver, WA
Posted: 12/17/2007 6:43:21 PM

I m absolutely for saving life of the birds and any solution, which will help with it. I seriously hate any other approach, which gives anybody rights to value anything else above the life of the those birds.Nell Haberman, Portland, OR
Posted: 12/17/2007 5:16:04 PM

Chris and his team have been doing an outstanding job in the rescue of the Yacolt parrots. If it weren’t for them, these beautiful birds may have had a sad ending by now. Keep up the great job!A Yacolt resident
JoAnne CarrasJoAnne, Yacolt, WA
Posted: 12/17/2007 7:51:15 AM

Great job Guys. I hope This bird rescue group can keep those birds alive. I’ve been watching this story since my friends told me about it.
Thank You Chris Driggins and the volenteers of NW Bird Rescue.
Jake.Jake, Portland, OR
Posted: 12/14/2007 8:59:22 AM

I wish more people would do these types of things! If only humans could finally learn how to live in peace with the animals!Trina, Irvine, KY
Posted: 12/13/2007 1:01:35 PM

I HOPE THAT THEY STOP AND THINK ABOUT THIS BIRD AND DO THE RIGHT THING.JACKIE, LANCASTER, PA
Posted: 12/11/2007 6:24:14 PM

I hope the rescuers win this one….because other areas of the country will follow suit.joan, franklin square, NY
Posted: 12/11/2007 3:14:58 PM

I hope the quakers will go to thier nest boxes and feeding areas so that they wont have to be taken away from their hometown.Thomas, Morris, NY
Posted: 12/11/2007 1:56:10 PM

Contact InformationBEBSO INC. & N.W. BIRD RESCUE & ADOPTION ORPHANAGE INC.DBA; BIRDMAN’S BIRD RESCUE & ADOPTION ORPHANAGE
1901 N.E. 162nd Ave. Suite D-105 P.M.B. # 301 VANCOUVER, WA 98684
(360/503) BIR-DMAN (247-3626) FAX 360 260-BIRD (2473)
Founder for NWBR: abirdman2@hotmail.com or
B.E.B.S.O. Email: cdriggins@hotmail.comDonations
To donate to Northwest Bird Rescue, please send donations to:
1901 N.E. 162nd Ave. Suite D-105 P.M.B. # 301 VANCOUVER, WA 98684Birdman, Vancouver, WA
Posted: 12/11/2007 1:13:42 PM

That is wonderful news that people are trying to save the wild Quaker. I wish we could have them in CA.M, G, CA
Posted: 12/10/2007 9:37:09 PM

poor birdtuan, china, IL
Posted: 12/10/2007 7:39:45 PM

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