Please note, CJ passed away on July 24, 2007. He enjoyed a full and happy life with his Refuge “flock” and will be missed by us all, especially by his companion, Scarletta.
Taken from the wild at least 30 years ago, CJ endured a life akin to those captured as slaves, in order to reproduce others of their own species – purely and simply for the financial gain of their owners.
After several years, someone finally noticed that CJ had a problem passing feces. with the extreme straining often presenting blood in the faeces. CJ was diagnosed with papillomas, a growth found in the intestines and often in the throat of the afflicted bird. Although this is believed to be a contagious disease, it appears that it is only transmitted by oral or vent contact. There have been many reports of pairs living together for decades where only one partner suffers from this problem. Likely the partner has an immunity to this virus.
CJ’s last owner conceived the “idea” that food grade hydrogen peroxide, provided as the liquid of choice, would kill the virus and make CJ well again. Not surprisingly, it did not work. CJ became very thin and weak. Being kept outside in the cold winter, with only plastic sheeting to protect him from bitter, below-freezing temperatures did not help either.
The owner opted to give CJ to the refuge as he said he “liked him too much to kill him” – his words, not ours. He even provided a container of hydrogen peroxide for us to continue with his “medication”. Needless to say, we did not use it.
We provide lots of love, freedom and good quality food for CJ. He has had many visits to the avian vet and is progressing well using the proper medications supplied.
CJ occupies his own large compound in the special needs unit. He sees and hears companion birds around him all day to ensure that he has real bird interaction and never feels isolated.
CJ has been with us for more than 4 years now and he is in a much healthier and happier condition than when he arrived. To date there is no cure for papillomas, although ongoing research in this field is positive.
