By Laurel Merrick and Elle Logue,
Managing Editors.
They may fly under the radar as far as popular pets, but birds have managed to peck their way into the hearts of many students here at Santa Rosa High School. With beady eyes and sharp talons, birds can be great beaked buddies for students. They may wake you up at dawn screaming obscenities at you because you swore at your parrot one time but nonetheless, many birds have found homes in the arms of Panthers.
One such Panther is sophomore Celeste Vasquez. Vasquez is the owner of four birds: Blancito, Azúlito, Moño and Sunset. Two are parakeets, one is a lovebird and the last is a cockatiel. These birds flew into Vasquez’s home via PetCo and a breeder in Napa. “It’s nice to have them around because it’s like having a friend around. . . they are intelligent in their own ways,” said Vasquez. “When I whistle to Moño she will mimic me back or sing to me.”
Each of the birds have their own personalities, something Vasquez remarks to be her favorite part about owning winged friends. While Azúl is social, Blancito is shy. “Sunset is very loving and. . . Moño is a curious bird and will check things out or will observe you,” Vasquez said, explaining how birds are similar to humans in that sense. You get to know their individualism and earn their trust as you care for them.
However, owning a bird isn’t all fun and games. It can be hard to take care of these creatures and you have to be knowledgeable about the breed and willing to adjust your life around them. “Taking care of them is like taking care of a kid because you have to feed them, clean their water, clean their cage, et cetera. They can be a handful sometimes but it’s still fun and enjoyable to have them around,” said Vasquez. If you’re not an early bird, then you might also have to take your sleep schedule into consideration, as birds tend to chirp early morning songs. If you’re interested in becoming a bird owner, make sure you’ve done your research and are prepared for the work that comes with having a bird.
These feathered friends warm the hearts of many and have proven to be trusty companions to students at SRHS. Their joyous music and bright personalities can provide a great alternative to other pets that take up more room and require more maintenance. While birds do require a significant amount of care, this can help you foster a trusting and close relationship with one so you can have the best home-aviary experience.
