Surviving the California Fires: One Bird Owner’s Evacuation Story

When wildfires threaten, preparation can mean the difference between safety and chaos. Debra, a dedicated bird owner, recently shared her harrowing experience evacuating with her flock of four birds during a wildfire. Her story underscores the challenges, lessons, and emotional toll of protecting feathered family members in a crisis.

Debra's Flock

The Flock

Debra’s avian family includes a 19-year-old Goffin’s cockatoo named Mabel, an 18-year-old Senegal parrot named Apollo, and two budgies, Chauncey (3) and Cirrus (1). Like many bird owners, Debra has a deep bond with her birds, especially Mabel, who has been a feather plucker since the age of two. “I’ve had her since she was a baby. I did everything I could to help her stop, but it became clear I just needed to love her the way she is,” Debra said.

The Chaos of Evacuation

When the evacuation order came in, panic set in immediately. “We didn’t get the notice until almost 7 PM, so I was in a complete panic—probably the worst of my life—trying to figure out where to go and how to get everyone out safely,” Debra recalled.

A major issue was retrieving travel cages, which were buried deep in the garage. In the rush, Debra and her husband struggled to assemble the collapsing cages for Mabel and Apollo. Ultimately, they opted to keep all the birds in their smaller carriers, a decision that worked out. “I think they felt safer that way,” she said.

Packing for the journey proved equally challenging. Debra managed to grab their chop, seed mixes, and refrigerated foods for both the birds and her dog, Dorothy, but critical items were left behind in the chaos. “I forgot the budgies’ broccoli and sprouts, as well as Apollo and the budgies’ Avi-Cakes. I’ve learned that I need to have an emergency kit with travel-sized food containers and treats like millet, which could help comfort the budgies,” she said.

Finding a Place to Stay

Perhaps the most stressful part of the ordeal was finding a place to stay. Hotels were charging exorbitant rates—up to $700 per night with multi-night minimums—and navigating lobbies with four birds and a dog seemed impossible.

“We realized an Airbnb was our best option,” Debra explained, but finding one that was affordable, available, and willing to accommodate pets late at night was a nightmare. “We finally found a place. The guy was really nice, but the house was a mess—like it hadn’t been cleaned in months. We had no choice but to take it, and it cost us $1,500 for two nights. It was far from ideal, but at least we and our babies were safe.”

Lessons Learned

Debra’s experience offered important takeaways for bird owners facing similar emergencies:

Have Travel Supplies Ready: Keep travel cages, food, and emergency kits easily accessible. “I’ve learned we need pre-packed containers of food and treats for each bird, including items like Avi-Cakes and millet for comfort,” Debra said.
Include Comfort Items: Travel cages should have perches and bowls, but Debra also realized the importance of packing toys. “There were no toys in their travel cages, and I think having some would have helped them feel more at ease.”
Plan for Shelter: The lack of pet-friendly emergency accommodations is a significant challenge. Debra advises researching Airbnb or other alternatives in advance and having a list of potential places to contact during an evacuation.
Stay Calm: Despite the panic, Debra discovered the importance of taking a moment to breathe and think. “I forgot so many things simply because I was in such a rush. Staying calm would have made all the difference.”

Reflecting on the Experience

The wildfire evacuation was one of the most stressful experiences of Debra’s life, but her determination to keep her flock safe never wavered. “Where can you go with your birds and a dog and stay together at a moment’s notice?” she asked. It’s a question that underscores the unique challenges bird owners face in emergencies.

For bird owners, Debra’s story serves as both a cautionary tale and a reminder of the importance of preparedness. Wildfires and other emergencies can strike without warning, but with the right plans in place, you can ensure the safety and well-being of your feathered companions.

Debra’s final piece of advice? “Never underestimate how much you love your birds. In a crisis, you’ll do whatever it takes to protect them. Just make sure you’re ready.”

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