Aviary Expansion Now Halfway to Goal

In June, via three posts, we told you about the first two aviaries completed as part of our Phase I facility expansion program. Two more aviaries have come online since then. The four new aviaries expand our capacity by about 200 birds, which means we’re halfway to our goal of accommodating 400+ more lifelong residents!

Third new aviary: Quadraplex, measuring 34’ x 36’ overall.

The new Quadraplex aviary features four separate (but connected) 17’ x 18’ units, each capable of comfortably housing 12 – 18 parrots, depending on species. Each unit is prepped, including toys and perches, and ready for occupancy. The recently installed retaining wall protects the Quadraplex from flooding by rainwater runoff. The new landscaping vegetation adds color and beauty, and the plant/tree root systems will help stabilize the ground on the high side of the retaining wall.

The fourth new aviary is another condo structure, consisting of 27 separate (but connected) 4’ x 6’ units, each eligible to comfortably house 1 or 2 parrots, depending on compatibility and socialization. The units are perfect for parrots whose temperament doesn’t support life in a flock environment or to assimilation beyond a bonded pair; they nonetheless provide ample room for climbing and play, while avoiding the appearance and sensation of isolation.

Fourth new aviary: Condo #2, measuring 24’ x 36’ overall.

Condo #2 is protected from flooding by rainwater runoff via the new north-south retaining wall that also serves the Quadraplex aviary. An east-west retaining wall has been installed as well. The border of the latter retaining wall also sports brand-new landscaping for aesthetic (e.g., color, beauty) and practical (e.g., ground stability) purposes.

Possible candidates for living in one of the two newest aviaries at FEBS.

We are very fortunate that the expansion funds gifted to us permit latitude in experimentation with the layout of the new aviaries. The flexibility helps us achieve optimal land use and maximum housing comfort, safety and utility for our parrots.

Members of the Friends of FEBS community know that Phase I of our major expansion program takes more than bird aviary capacity into account. It also addresses the much-needed replacement of our aged and inadequate workshop, food storage unit, caretaker residence, and more. We strive to provide topmost care and quality of life to our forever residents; achieving that mission demands that our factors of production – everything from the wages of our employees to the suitability of our support structures – be fully up to the task!

FEBS relies solely on the generosity of individuals, businesses, estates, and private foundations to fund our daily operations and capital expansion needs. Are you motivated to help us accomplish our mission and provide lifelong care to our feathered residents? You can donate via our website (https://www.flabirdsanctuary.org/make-a-donation) or by mailing a check to 8933 Casper Avenue, Hudson, FL 34667. Gifts and grants can also be directed to us via PayPal. For information on structured giving and related matters, contact our Treasurer, Dennis Padget, by email at Dennis@flabirdsanctuary.org. Thank you in advance for your love and support.