A pair of lovestruck cockatiels are scandalizing Coquitlam Animal Shelter workers with their amorous activities.
But they are forgiven because the rambunctious duo is getting over the grief of losing their owner, who passed away recently.
Andrea McDonald, manager of bylaw, licensing and animal services, said the birds came to the shelter July 16 looking for a new owner who will provide them with a forever home.
“These birds have long lives and people should be aware of that,” McDonald said, noting that the birds, which are between five and seven years old, can live up to 20 years.
It’s not uncommon for the shelter to acquire birds in the summer because they often go missing after flying out of open windows. They are generally caught by a shelter worker holding an open bird cage above their head.
“They tend to go into it because for them it’s home and a comfort,” McDonald said.
This pair is bonding after having been together their entire lives and are named Kevin, a male, and Bacon, a female, after the actor best known for the movie Footloose.
When The Tri-City News visited, the two were a bit nervous about being fed an apple by hand and may need some socializing. But they had a lovely chirp and are fun to watch.
McDonald said they need a large cage for all their toys, water, food and to be able to fly. They will also need regular vet checkups, just like any other animal.
A healthy, well-socialized cockatiel can make a great family pet and is also ideal for apartment living. But this feisty pair would benefit from an owner who knows a little bit about cockatiels.
The shelter will keep them as long as it takes for someone to adopt them, said McDonald, noting that a cat named Kit Kat was recently adopted after staying at the shelter for two years.
Maybe someone with an interest in birds, and who doesn’t mind witnessing a little amorous activity, will adopt them soon, she said.
“They just need someone to love them and provide them with a little care and attention.”
