Nonprofit Avian Rescue and Rehabilitation Center in Southern California

In 2020, Trina Cowles was working as a Practice Manager at a veterinary clinic when her life took an unexpected turn. She received a distressing call from a client who urgently needed to rehome three large macaws. The alternative was euthanasia. Compelled by compassion, she agreed to take ownership of these magnificent birds, unaware that this decision would mark the beginning of her avian rescue journey.

The first macaw was brought to the animal hospital. It had previously seen a veterinarian and had a broken wing. Unfortunately, the owner never had the funds for the necessary surgery. The bird, in a state of distress and pain, had resorted to pulling out its feathers. This behavior is often a result of stress, pain, and poor diet. Additionally, the bird had an overgrown beak and nails, and its wings were in poor condition.

After a thorough examination, the veterinarian assured Trina that the bird was worth saving. Several lab work panels were conducted, revealing markers for a gastrointestinal infection and muscle atrophy. The veterinarian provided her with handouts detailing the cage and diet requirements, as well as recommendations for supplements. She began the arduous process of rehabilitation, administering antibiotics for the infection and initiating muscle atrophy rehabilitation. The bird’s inability to crack open nuts with its beak also required special attention.

A few months later, the same owner contacted her again. This time, she was to pick up a military macaw from her home. Unlike the first bird, this one had better feather conditions but was extremely aggressive and lived in unsanitary conditions. Despite the challenges, she was determined to provide it with the care it needed.

Within six to nine months, Trina managed to nurse the second macaw back to health. Eventually, she found a new home for it with an owner who could afford the yearly veterinary visits, provide the proper diet, and dedicate the time needed to ensure the bird remained healthy and well-adjusted.

Her third rescue was heartbreaking: a blue and gold macaw that couldn’t stand, had plucked out all her feathers, and had sores all over her body. She was kept in a dog run with a small dog and no perches. Her lab work was poor, and X-rays showed possible heart and liver conditions. She was set to be euthanized, but she took her home for a few days to see if she could help. With medication and daily rehabilitation, she improved. A year later, after a second opinion and a change in medication and supplements, she is now talking, standing on perches, and cracking open nuts.

Since Trina’s initial three, she has accepted three more large birds: a blue and gold macaw, an African grey, and a yellow-naped Amazon. These birds were owner surrenders and were showing signs of feather plucking. Lab work indicated they needed dietary changes, supplements, antibiotics, fresh food, and routine deep cleaning of their cages. They also showed muscle atrophy, likely due to improper diet.

It is crucial to note that in captivity, large birds (Psittacines) can live up to 60 to 75 years if provided with a correct diet, proper cage conditions, regular human interaction, and annual veterinary visits. The commitment to their care is long-term and requires dedication, resources, and a deep understanding of their needs.

Throughout this journey, Trina has learned invaluable lessons about avian care and the profound impact of compassion and dedication. Each bird has its unique personality and needs, and understanding these nuances is essential for their well-being. Her experience has inspired her to continue rescuing and rehabilitating large birds, with the hope of providing them with a second chance at life.

She recently was able to register Whispering T Angel Wings Inc as a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit charity avian rescue and rehabilitation center. This center will not only provide immediate care for rescued birds, but it will also educate the public about the responsibilities of avian ownership. By sharing her journey and experiences, she hopes to inspire others to take action and contribute to the welfare of these magnificent creatures.

Trina’s avian large bird rescue journey began with a single phone call and has since transformed into a lifelong mission. The challenges and rewards of rescuing and rehabilitating these birds have profoundly impacted her life. Their resilience and capacity for recovery are a testament to the power of compassion and proper care. As she continues this journey, she remains committed to making a difference, one bird at a time.