09/17/2026
Social media doesn’t tell the whole story.
Recently Fallen Feathers was mentioned on TikTok regarding 2 cockatoos that were left in a QT gas station.
Here are the details we can share:
Yes, one of the birds was originally adopted from Fallen Feathers nearly a decade ago. We do not know where the second/companion bird came from.
As many know, our adoption policy requires volunteering to work and bond with the bird. Adoption is a process, it doesn't happen in one visit. We have not seen this volunteer in over 5 years.
The woman who adopted/owned the birds has recently struggled with addiction and has become estranged from her family. These issues escalated and restraining orders were put in place, but not before she left the birds in her brother's bathroom. Unsure what to do and unequipped with cages, he contacted us to assist. We took the birds in to help the family and ensure appropriate care of the birds. Thankfully, both were in good condition.
The woman was told the birds were at Fallen Feathers. She started visiting to spend time with her birds, but did not have a stable place for them to live. We hoped that keeping this connection and providing compassion would help her decide to get help.
About a month ago, she retrieved her birds and we haven’t heard from her since that time until we heard about them being left again, this time at a QT.
These birds were NOT stolen from us. We were trying to help a person in a difficult situation find their footing again. She never relinquished ownership of these birds back to us – they were not stolen as social media implied.
We know the person who adopted the one from us years ago cared about her birds. There were no signs of abuse, and the birds were in good condition. Unfortunately, drug use impacts one's life circumstances over time, including the pets we hold dear to us.
We do not have knowledge as to where the birds are currently. Fallen Feathers only wanted to help these birds and if they still need a place to be, they are welcome here.
If you are struggling with addiction, please get help.
Dial 988 for Crisis Hotline
Text your zipcode to HELP4U
SAMHSA 1-800-662-HELP (4357)