The Story of Skippy
© Sybil Erden, Founder
The Oasis Sanctuary Foundation, LTD.

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Skippy, a Lesser Sulphur-crested Cockatoo, was bounced through seven homes and caregivers during the first nine years of his life. At one point, his alcoholic owners threw him - cage and all - into a trash dumpster. Another one of Skippy's caregivers, a psychotic man who refused medication, burned him with cigarettes! During this period of mistreatment, his wings were so badly damaged as he flailed repeatedly to try to escape the torture that they shattered, leaving him flightless.

When he was finally brought to the attention of a veterinarian, it was suggested that the bird be put down. Fortunately, others intervened and Skippy was placed with a rehabber who provided surgery and physical therapy for an entire year.

In 1997 Skippy arrived at The Oasis Sanctuary. Since then he has quite literally blossomed - going from being withdrawn and anxious to being loving with his caregivers and playful with his new bird friends.

This is one of many similar stories at The Oasis Sanctuary. In order for us to continue helping Skippy and the many birds like him who reside at our sanctuary, we must rely on the kindness of individuals and organizations for both donations and volunteer work.

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You can read an article about Skippy prior to his arrival at The Oasis written by Sally Blanchard entitled "Dealing with Hard-Core Aggression" in Companion Parrot Quarterly, Issue #55 (Winter 2002).