09/19/2026
AFA New Beginnings: Louie
Every bird has a story, and sometimes a change in circumstance becomes the beginning of an entirely new chapter.
In 2013, a family preparing for the arrival of a newborn child with medical challenges needed to find homes for two parrots: a Kakariki, later renamed Sally Jessie, and a Meyer’s Parrot named Louie.
Their exact ages were unknown. Sally Jessie arrived with respiratory problems, while Louie appeared healthy and quickly showed just how social and adaptable he was.
Louie was the kind of bird who could easily become part of everyday life. He stepped comfortably from person to person, accepted wearing a harness, knew a few words, and was small enough to be a little “pocket parrot.”
A few years later, an experienced bird lover was considering adding another bird to her home. She already shared her life with a much-loved budgie named Buddy and had also gained experience hand-feeding and caring for young birds.
A Meyer’s Parrot seemed like it could be a good fit.
A meeting was arranged.
And that meeting became Louie’s New Beginning.
Louie found a home where he would spend the next 12 years surrounded by companionship, care, and love.
Buddy eventually passed after a long and healthy life, and Louie continued to be an important part of the family for many years afterward.
Sadly, Louie passed away just a few days ago.
His story is an important reminder of what New Beginnings is meant to represent.
Birds come into new homes in many different ways. They may be purchased from a responsible breeder or bird store, adopted through a rescue, or rehomed because a family's circumstances have changed.
A change of home does not always mean a bird was unwanted or unloved.
Sometimes it simply means that life changed.
And when thoughtful decisions are made with the bird's future in mind, what might first appear to be an ending can become the beginning of many wonderful years.
For Louie, that new beginning lasted another 12 years.
To the person who gave Louie those years, thank you for giving him a life filled with love and companionship.
Rest peacefully, Louie. ❤️🦜
AFA New Beginnings shares the stories behind birds finding their next home and recognizes the breeders, bird stores, rescues, families, and individuals who help make those successful transitions possible.
Have a New Beginning story of your own? We would love to hear it.
