Flying Colors Bird Sanctuary of NC, Inc.

Volume 3—Issue 1 June 2008

What makes an outreach program a success? Public Awareness.

Our goal is to promote high standards of avian care by educating the public on the humane treatment and welfare of birds in
captivity.

Because of the increasing incidences of behavior problems in companion birds, many are losing their homes. Problems that may
develop include biting, screaming, feather picking, and phobias. The biting bird can terrorize the entire family and anyone else that
comes within reach. The screaming bird can get the owner evicted. The feather-pucker may continue to self-mutilation. The phobic
bird suddenly acts like familiar people are deadly predators.

Behavior problems develop when the bird's basic needs are not being met. These needs include food, water, shelter, sleep, and
social interaction.

Once these needs are met in an appropriate manner, the behavior problems will be easier to resolve or at least control.

This program is unique in that it combines outreach with avian education. Evaluations indicate that this program, on a number of
measures, is highly successful.

All pets have normal behaviors that can become problems for the humans in the pet's life.

Parrots normally chew on items. These become problems when they occur at the wrong time or place for the human family. The
humans need to teach the proper behavior and set rules from the first time the pet comes into the household. Typically, the human
family needs to make changes in the way they handle the bird.
Dusty – Nanday Conure - Plucks due to Dominance and Separation
Photo by C. O’Brien
Brad Dirks is President of Flying Colors Bird Sanctuary of NC, Inc.He received his A.A.S. degree in Computer
Networking from Southeast Technical Institute of Sioux Falls, SD in 2003. He has been active in the area of bird
rescue management for the past five years, and has been a frequent contributor to Flying Colors Bird Sanctuary
since they were founded in 2006. His experience includes programs and consultancies on the care of humane
treatment of birds.His current research involves study of aviculture.

Amanda is the secretary of FCBS having 9 years of administrative and accounting experience. She helps keep the
sanctuary paperwork in order, as well as participates in fundraisers and assists with educational seminars and videos
for the sanctuary. Her love of animals prompted her to return to college where she is pursuing a degree in zoology
and hopes to one day participate in the research and conservation of endangered wildlife.

Erin lives in Wilmington, NC and works full time as an administrative assistant for an electrical supply company. Her
love for birds started 3 years ago when she was first introduced to Catherine O’Brien, the founder of FCBS.
Catherine’s passion for birds brought on a conversation about the mistreatment and mistakes people make with their
pets as well as the plight of wild birds, and a fire was lit in Erin. She got involved in the sanctuary in her free time,
helping educate the public about proper care and treatment of birds.

Catherine brings more than 15 years of Business Administration and Aviculture to the table. Prior to founding Flying
Colors Bird Sanctuary, Catherine was an Art Director in advertising, whose clients include COCA COLA, PEPSI while
teaching continued education subjects, Drafting I, and II for New Hampshire Vocational Technical College. Catherine
has also served 5 years as a volunteer for the Sacramento SPCA where she was responsible for the housing needs
of domestic dogs and cats within the facility.
One of the original Directors on the board of Flying Colors Bird Sanctuary, Annette helped set many of the founding
programs and policies.
After a long struggle with cancer we lost Annette in December, 2007 at a young age of 44 years.
I was a colleague of Annette’s for several years at Wal-Mart. She was a very gentle person with a very positive
outlook on just about everything. It was always a pleasure to talk to Annette, and once I got to know her, I discovered
that she had a very well developed sense of humor.
Annette’s bird Nacho passed away in the summer of 2006 from ovarian cancer.
A helping hand, a willing heart, Sometimes that's all it takes-
A simple gesture on someone's part, But what a difference it makes.
Wouter generously offers the use of his tools and expertise building the outdoor Aviary.

$100 -$500 Jill & Wouter deLigt

Dubey’s Pets
Sean & Tina Satzman
“In Memory of “ Alberta McNeill
Timothy Powell
$500 -$1,000 Brad Dirks
$1,000 -$5,000 Kevin Lanaghan
K & G Pets
Dr. Greg Burkett
Lafeber Company
Harrison’s Bird Foods
$5,000—$10,000 Catherine O’Brien
Dr. Burkett, Bella, &
Brad Dirks at the
Birdie Boutique

The best time to make sure you have everything you need for any bird emergency is BEFORE your bird gets hurt!
You should always have a basic avian first aid kit on hand as well as a small carrier or cage for emergency situations.
Now is a great time to assemble a ‘Bird First Aid Kit’ if you do not already have one. Many perfectly acceptable kits
can be purchased online, but I sometimes find people prefer to make their own. The following guidelines should get
you started on your way to being prepared for anything avian!

How to Prepare an Emergency First Aid Kit

Whether you purchase a pre-assembled bird first aid kit, or make one yourself, here are some items every kit should
include:
Blunt ended Scissors
These can also come in handy if your bird becomes entangled in a toy or other material.
Styptic Powder, or other blood clotting agent
Use on bleeding nails or beaks in an emergency.
Avoid using directly on skin as some styptic powders can burn skin
A Carrier or small Cage
A small cage or carrier can also be used as a hospital area for an injured bird.
Locking Forceps, Hemostat, or good Tweezers
These can be used to remove a broken blood feather
First Aid Book I recommend First Aid for Birds by Julie Rach and Gary A. Callerstein. This book
contains step-by-step information on emergency situations bird owners may encounter and how to handle the
emergency, information on monitoring your bird's health and what to look for in signs of illness. Color photos, info-
packed sidebars and fun facts make this a book to help you care for your bird in the best way.
Latex Gloves
Gauze Bandages and pads
Cotton swabs and Q-tips
A list of emergency phone numbers
Avian Veterinarian or closest emergency clinic and the Poison control phone number
Flashlight and batteries
Syringes for medicating or giving fluids
Nail clippers

(optional) antibiotic ointment or spray

(optional) fluids for rehydrating
(optional) heating pad
Warm (not hot) heat can often mean the difference between
life and death to a seriously injured bird.

And there you have it! You now have everything you need for your first aid kit! Armed with the right tools
and the proper knowledge you will be able to handle any situation!

Article by Amanda Lambert

FCBS RESCUE REPORTER

Squirtly, a three year old Pacific Parrotlet, is a new resident. Surrendered to FCBS May, 23, 2007

In Memory Of Annette Carden

Aria’s Cor ner
The world is hugged by the faithful arms of volunteers.
1. Ask someone you trust for a recommendation. Advertisements supply information about services offered, but a
personal recommendation is best.

1. Visit the facility, checking for cleanliness, a relaxed professional atmosphere and staff members who are ready
to answer your questions and give you a tour.

1. Find out whether the veterinarian belongs to professional organizations, is affiliated with local humane societies
and emergency clinics and provides referral services when needed.

1. Ask questions about your pet's care, paying close attention to the answers. These responses are key to
making certain you have the right person for the job.

5. Request to visit the animal care areas; these should be squeaky clean, odor-free, warm, dry and comfortable at
all times - no exceptions

5. Choose a veterinary clinic that allows you to see the same doctor during each visit so that he or she will
become familiar with you and your pet, and vice versa.

5. Make an appointment to take your pet for a get-acquainted visit. Observe how the veterinarian and staff
interact with you and your pet.

Knowing your veterinarian is knowledgeable about animal health is important, but compassion for animals is an
absolute necessity.

Although choosing a veterinary based on location is tempting and traveling is stressful for your bird, the extra driving
may be worth it to receive quality care.

Trust your instincts and ask for a second opinion if you think one is warranted.

African Grey—CODY came to FCBS in March 2008

Photo by, C. O’Brien

Meet The Directors

Fir st Aid For Your Bir d
Planning For T he Future
Monetary gifts seem to be the gift of the present. Its safe, convenient and reliable, the ultimate freedom to choose the
gift you really want to give.
FCBS is currently researching these opportunities. Our goal is land and a building. The present number of birds
we can take in is directly proportional to the size of our facility. Currently that is about 20 birds, resulting in turning
birds away that need our help.
We are also in need of a vehicle to pick up and transport our avian friends. A van would be ideal for this. We can
achieve these goals through grants and donations. Monetary donations are all tax deductible, so pass the word on,
make your mark, be remembered as someone that would step up to the plate to help animals that need you.
Thanks to all you that have helped us out in the past.
Because of you we are not just a dream.
Article by: Brad Dirks

Though I have lost both my eyes to illness and an improper diet, your soothing voices continue to comfort me and
add quality to life. I can remember all of your voices and the time you have spent with me and the other birds.
Through your dedication I know there are humans that still care. I feel that in the future there will be more to come
and follow in your foot steps. You are the wind beneath our wings.
2,544 hours of volunteer time was contributed in 2007. Without the volunteers FCBS would not exist. THANK
YOU...

Jill, Wouter, Andrea, Tina, Kelly, Cheyenne, Mark, Gabereal, Katherine, Lynn, Christina,
Nikki, Brenda, Brenna, Jessie, Chris, Greg, Jewel, Nick, Jennifer, Marie, Mary Jean,
Sean , Steve, Elena, Lisa, Catherine, Amanda, Brad and David.
Each day Millions of coins are poured through coin operated vending machines.

In March of 2008 FCBS placed a vending machine sponsored by

Moses Jacobs
Hunt Electric
Ramseur Ave.
Durham, NC, 27701

Thank you in behalf of FCBS to Moses Jacobs.

__________________________________
Dr. Greg Burkett
Of
The Birdie Boutique
3039 University Dr.
Durham, NC, 27707

Placed a donation box on his counter, to accept contributions which would be donated to FCBS to help
assist in our rescue operations. Through the generosity of customers, their loving donations provides us
with many desperately needed supplies.

Thank you Dr. Burkett

for your continued support.
____________________________________
If you have a great fundraising idea you would like to sponsor or participate in, please contact us at
admin@flyingcolors-nc.com We are looking for exciting new ways to get our word out.
I was recently at a flea market and a woman was selling money gifts. The gifts were along the line of the
money tree but one was a shirt with a bowtie in a cardboard box made from $5 and $1 bills. The other
was flowers (with stems) made from money also. Does anyone have instructions for making these type of
monetary gifts?
Major Contributors
Flying Colors Bird Sanctuary of NC, Inc. thanks the following for supporting it’s mission.

These contributors ensure thatbirds in crisisthe support they need and deserve during the period of their residence at
FCBS.

How To Choose A Veterinarian

bags, even treats, that could be purchased for birds that are adopted or visitors of the sanctuary. This helps provide
on-going incoming funds.
Dr. Greg Burkett One of the first 100 Avian Vet Specialist is the US
FCBS uses Dr. Burkett as our avian veterinarian because we know he will do EVERYTHING possible in the best
interest of the birds at FCBS.

He explains all treatment alternatives to so we're informed and educated and can make their own decisions. Dr.
Burkett and his staff go to great lengths to make sure they spend the time you need to answer all of your
questionVeterinary Medicine. Today he owns and operates s.

He graduated from North Carolina State University College of a successful avian practice, The Birdie Boutique in
Durham, NC, which treats only birds.

In 2004, Dr. Burkett was appointed as an adjunct professor for the NCSU College of Veterinary Medicine and
currently teaches students rotating through his practice.

Dr. B is offering veterinary advice when you visit this site. However, this advice does not replace a visit to your
veterinarian. Dr. B cannot diagnose or recommend treatment without examining your bird.

Simply email your questions to

BirdVet@BirdieBoutique.com

For appointments call 919-490-3001.

Budget
We have secured $13,700. (2007 combined donations) to seed this program. We have received requests to accept
35 birds in the months of January through May, of 2008. With only two 501c3-registered Sanctuaries offering bird
rescue in the state of North Carolina including us, our goal is to make a great impact on the number of birds saved
from euthanasia or starvation.
For the past three years our sanctuary has successfully rescued and adopted an increasing number of birds each
year, under the name of Flying Colors Bird Sanctuary of NC, Inc. We have rescued and adopted out 116 birds as of
January 2006.
To view our three year estimated budget plan at:
Proposed Budget 2009—2011 -
http://www.flyingcolors-nc.com/BUDGET_Est_2008.html

Financial Statement 2007 501c3 Tax ID # 205897359

Directors Votes Due By July, 1, 2008
Flying Colors Bird Sanctuary of NC, Inc. is a 501c3 organization that works with local avian specialists, veterinarians
and volunteers whose purpose is to address all aspects of homeless birds in crisis and give guidance to pet owners
on behavioral issues of birds in captivity.
Our goal is to promote high standards of avian care by educating the public through educational seminars, written,
web based materials and one on one guidance on the humane treatment and welfare of birds in the United States
and abroad.
.
1. That we consider forming an HONORARY CONSULTING ADVISORY BOARD. These members support the
mission of FCBS and are committed to providing opportunities as an expanded support team with suggestions and
advisors for development of new and existing projects. This is a non-paid position, Please contact me with any
nominees.

1. Please send your nominations to fill the open position of director on the board of FCBS. This will be a private
vote among the directors in two weeks.

1. It is proposed that we look at a new program of training. That some cases of adoption require a basic bird care
certification. This course may require Internet access available at any library, and 17-20 hours of independent study.
This would be required on most birds sponsored for adoption, and can be done at the sponsors home. Please submit
your input so we can work out the details. This would be a permanent program of FCBS.

1. I have had a lot of requests to consider fostering birds so we can accept more birds. Although this offers more
quarantine opportunities I am afraid of loosing personal observation of every case. I feel it would open a door to
grow at a rate we can easily get in over our heads. This should be avoided in any case and would require careful
monitoring. We currently ONLY foster to direct active members of FCBS for only short periods of time for special
cases. Please submit your vote yes or no on open fostering. The main body of FCBS currently resides in one
place.

Current Mission Statement

Unfortunately, Flying Colors Birds Sanctuary must also rescue birds that have been neglected, abused, abandoned, injured, or
malnourished. We are committed to housing, feeding and caring for unwanted and mistreated pet birds. Flying Colors will get
veterinarian attention for any bird that needs it and do what ever
it takes to ensure they survive and live healthy, loving lives. Some will stay in a foster home and others will be adopted out if they
achieve the level of rehabilitation that qualifies. Other birds will remain in permanent residence of the sanctuary.
FCBS spring of 2007

VOTE TODAY
Directors please send in your votes by 7-01-08
New Mission Statement? Yes____ No____
Create a Honorary Board
of Advisors? Yes____ No____
Please submit your nomination for
Honorary Board position ___________________
Please submit your nomination for Director on the Board position.
_______________________________________
Create a bird care certification project? Yes____ No____
Should we consider fostering on a regular basis?
Yes____ No____
Comments:

Name _________________________
Address________________________
_________________________
 _________________________
Phone _________________________
E-Mail _________________________

FLYING COLORS BIRD SANCTUARY OF NC, INC.

PO Box 625
105 North Spray Place
Haw River, NC 27258
919-698-9584
cobrien@flyingcolors-nc.com

Flying Colors Bird Sanctuary of NC, Inc

F ly in g Co lo r s B ir d S anc tuar y of N C , Inc

To Our Subscribers Visit us at: flyingcolors-nc.com

I put my plans down on paper.

I now share my life with my bird companions. They are all so generous with their love and never ending loyalty. I am
blessed to live with many species of feathered companions, with eyes that seem to look into my soul, feathers that
adorn every color of the rainbow. The little feet that pitter-patter swiftly up my arm by a bird named O’Hanah, the one
responsible for my passion for avian welfare today.

I’ve learned a great deal through experience, veterinarians, other bird specialists, and years of research. I hope to
pass along this knowledge for you to benefit and enrich your birds life.

There can be varying opinions in the bird community. Having said that, we are all on a continuing journey of learning.
I recognize that others have gained different knowledge and experience and do not hesitate to refer you to other web
sites, veterinarians, and other resources, if I feel they can explain something better or give a different, but accurate
perspective on things. My first concern is what is best for the birds.

I hope you enjoy this newsletter and find it to be helpful. May your birds be the star of your life, and live many happy
years of preening, cuddling, and chirping with you.

Catherine O’Brien
To remove your name from our mailing list, please E MAIL us at: admin@flyingcolors-nc.com
In message SUBJECT box type un-subscribe.

My name is Catherine and I am the Founder of Flying Colors Bird Sanctuary of NC, Inc. I have always loved animals,
but never knew how much they would change my life .

After a devastating accident in 1998 I began a long journey of healing and opening my eyes in the search for my life's
purpose. I decided I wanted to start an animal rescue. After reading everything I could on this work, and speaking
with other rescuers across the country,

Compassionate, Unforgettable, very much loved, are among many of the words I would use to describe her. Annette
influenced my life greatly, and will be remembered with much fondness for many years. Annette's family has been
very much in my prayers in 2008.
Article by, Catherine O’Brien

On Location
We now have a small kiosk at the sanctuary.
Spend a day with volunteers that can help make toys, perches, birdie buddies, and branded merchandise like hats or
tote
Working as a team with your veterinarian helps guarantee that your pet will live a full and healthy life.

Selecting someone who has the same level of passion about pet care that you have is the first step. The information
below will help you in your search.
I am proposing to shorten the original mission statement for easier, smoother reading. Those of you on the Board of
Directors please submit your votes to: MY VOTE Or email me at: admin@flyingcolors-nc.com

Proposed
Mission Statement
Small things such as the owner deciding when the bird will get a treat or leave / return to its cage will raise the ranking of the human
in the bird's eyes.

Due to cost of a behavioral specialist, many of these behavioral issues would go untreated and the future to the bird concerned is
often grim to say the least.

For those owners who already have a bird with a behavior problem, help from an avian veterinarian or animal behaviorist may be
necessary to correct the offending behavior.

Flying Colors Bird Sanctuary of NC, Inc. works as a support group and will offer guidance on a one on one basis to promote a
better relationship for the bird and family. This program will be supported through donations.

Article by, Catherine O’Brien

TREAT EVERY LIVING THING WITH THE SAME KINDNESS YOU WANT.