Imagine living every day in a space so small that you couldn’t fully stretch your arms or legs. Unfortunately, this is the reality for many exotic pet birds, often confined to cages that are far too small and owned by individuals who may not fully understand their complex needs. Without proper knowledge of their behavior, diet, and social requirements, these magnificent creatures frequently suffer from neglect, malnutrition, and stress-related issues.
Papayago Rescue House, a nonprofit organization co-founded by Executive Director Brianna Stoddard and her mother, CEO Maria Sullivan, has been working tirelessly since January 2015 to improve the care of parrots and reduce cases of homelessness, abuse, and neglect. The mother-daughter duo, along with dedicated volunteers, rescues birds from dire situations, rehabilitates them, and educates the public about responsible ownership to prevent future mistreatment.
“Papayago Rescue House exists not only to rescue these birds but also to help them thrive,” Stoddard explained. “Lack of education, small cages, poor diet, and absence of veterinary care lead to severe emotional and physical issues, including stress, self-mutilation, and injury. Our mission is to provide these birds with rehabilitation, retraining, and new homes where they can truly flourish.”
Based in Marietta, Papayago Rescue House has saved more than 600 birds since its inception and continues to receive weekly surrender requests from bird owners who can no longer provide proper care. As one of only two parrot rescues in Georgia, the organization serves the entire state, caring for 160 birds at a time. Feeding them requires 320 pounds of pellets every two months, costing over $600, while medical care remains one of the nonprofit’s most significant expenses. Exotic bird specialists are essential for treating parrots, adding to the financial burden.
“Our biggest call to action is for people to learn, adopt, volunteer, donate, and support parrots in captivity,” Sullivan emphasized. “One of our most passionate partners in parrot care is volunteer Mike Bautsch, who recently founded The Georgia Aviary. This nonprofit is in its early stages but represents an exciting and much-needed solution to the ongoing parrot crisis in Georgia and surrounding areas.”
Bautsch envisions The Georgia Aviary as a world-class rescue and care center for parrots. “Our mission is to become the largest aviary in the world dedicated to rescued parrots, right here in north Georgia,” he said. “Think of the Georgia Aquarium, but for parrots instead of marine life. We hope to create a unique and engaging attraction that promotes avian conservation while also providing a safe haven for these incredible birds.”
The aviary will be home to species such as macaws, cockatoos, African greys, Amazons, conures, eclectus, and lovebirds. In addition to its rescue efforts, the project is expected to have a significant economic impact, generating millions of dollars annually and creating jobs in the local community.
Like Papayago Rescue House, The Georgia Aviary is committed to raising awareness about responsible bird ownership, ensuring that fewer birds suffer from neglect in the future. The project is currently searching for land and corporate sponsorships to bring this ambitious vision to life.
For those interested in following The Georgia Aviary’s progress, visit thegeorgiaaviary.org or contact mike@thegeorgiaaviary.org with any leads.
If you would like to volunteer, surrender a bird, or adopt, visit papayagorescuehouse.org to learn more. Papayago Rescue House operates by appointment only and offers services such as boarding, nail trimming, and beak maintenance to support responsible bird care.
