Search on for rare parrot lost from Kirkby in Ashfield garden

Rio, a two year old Illiger’s Macaw flew off from her owner Chloe Brown’s home, at 7pm, on Saturday, May 31.

The distinctive bright green parrot had recently been re-homed from Oxfordshire, to live with Chloe and her three parrorts; Zelda, Chicken and Motley.

It was hoped Rio would enjoy the company of the birds and that Chloe, an experienced parrot keeper, would help with her training.

According to Chloe and her friend Zoe Young Rio’s former owner, the bird had ‘happily’ settled in. The women were even more delighted when Rio strongly bonded with Chicken, also an Illiger’s Macaw. Sadly, he is now pining for his lost love.

Chloe, who is training to be a zoo biologist and works part-time at Derby’s Royal School for the Deaf, said:

“Rio had settled in well, we hoped it’d help her to be with the others, and we were pleased and amazed when she bonded with Chicken, they were inseparable, showing signs they were pairing up, parrots mate for life. It is so sad, as he’s really missing her.”

“She somehow got though the netting, but she didn’t go far at first, and was flying back and forth but a gust of wind took her. There were also crows or magpies which could have frightened her.”

“We are heartbroken. I have walked miles playing a recording of Chicken’s call. I’ve made my heels bleed walking, and driven for hours looking for her, following up sightings. She was seen in the Annesley and Ravenshead area, on Sunday but could be anywhere.”“She may not be far away, so we are asking everyone to keep an eye out. The community has been amazing, there are so many kind people in the Kirkby in Ashfield area who have offered help.”

Zoe, Rio’s former owner, said: “It is heartbreaking, especially as Rio and Chicken had really hit it off. He’s really sad now. It is a worry knowing she is out there somewhere. Fingers crossed someone might spot her.”

For sightings, call 07568 386 061.