06/07/2022
Hi Everyone
Today we have learned of the passing of Sally Blanchard. Through my eyes, and to all that know of her amazing work, a pioneering icon of the parrot world. An absolute legend and a devastating loss that will be felt by so many.
Personally I (Ginny) have shed a few tears on hearing and reading this news. I recall the pleasure of hearing Sally speak about parrot behaviour at an event in the UK around 20 years ago when my Black Headed Caique was in full 'terrible two's mode'. Moreover, I had the privilege of sitting with her over lunch and exchanging stories about her Black Headed Caique, Spikey, and my own Ollie, who was presenting me with some challenging Caique behaviours at the time. I distinctly remember waggling my freshly plastered finger at Sally and telling her wryly that the concept of 'show no fear of your bird's beak' (something I read in her book) had resulted in my ravaged finger. Inevitably, as we unravelled the scenario leading to my ravaging, it very quickly became apparent that the fault was entirely mine for not reading the signals and not adapting my own behaviour. All that said, Sally did concede that Black Headed Caique's in particular, don't necessarily follow the rule book therefore I should prepare myself for a rollercoaster ride!
We still have Sally's books on the shelf, we still reference them and recommend them.
What a dedicated, talented and beautiful person. What a devastating loss to the bird loving community and to her friends and family.
We salute you Sally. Fly high with Spikey and Bongo Marie and with every other soul you have touched.
Ginny & Kim
Xx
