Photo by Justin Criado

The National Aviary visited residents of the Little Sisters of the Poor Sts. Peter and Paul home in Brighton Heights Wednesday, March 11. 

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By Justin Criado

The National Aviary took its wings on wheels Wednesday, March 11 to visit the Little Sisters of the Poor Sts. Peter and Paul home in Brighton Heights.

Elderly residents were treated to an hour-long presentation that featured five unique birds, including a painting Parrot.

“It’s such an amazing facility,” Dr. Pilar Fish, Aviary veterinarian, said of the home. “We try to bring the birds to enrich (the residents).”

Fish first heard of the residence several years ago when she held a similar presentation, before becoming a volunteer at the home herself.

“We also have them come out for tours at the Aviary,” Fish said.

Birds are the only pets residence are permitted to have in their rooms, and Fish said the interaction between the pet and the resident can do wonders in communication and quality of life.

“I can tell you that there has been people that have come up to me and said their parents are nonverbal, and they’re crying because now they’re talking to a bird,” Fish said.

Fish also explained how she brought a pet canary for one of the residence she volunteers with and visits, and said the interaction between the two is amazing.

“I got her a canary for her room and she lights up every time she sees a bird,” Fish said.  “They just immediately connect and it’s just a wonderful, wonderful thing.”

The five birds that made the trip to Sts. Peter and Paul were Disco Dan the African Penguin; Brad, a Koa from Madagascar; Milo, a geriatric duck; Goliath, an African pygmy falcon; and Penny the painting Parrot.