This article was originally published on the American Web Media platform.
It is widely known that parrots have an affinity for communication. However, it may come as a surprise to many that these feathered creatures possess complex emotions. BirdSupplies.com characterizes parrots as having emotions that are strikingly similar to those of humans. This heartwarming video captures a poignant moment between a woman and her pet parrot.
Sinbad, an African gray parrot, has spent a quarter of a century engaging in conversation and cuddling alongside his devoted owner. Surely, they have shared countless meaningful exchanges and developed an incredibly intimate bond over the years.
Tragically, the woman who raised Sinbad is now gravely ill. As her breathing becomes more labored, her daughter extends an invitation to the parrot, urging him to bid farewell.
Remarkably, the African gray parrot’s behavior takes on an unusual quality, according to the daughter. It appears that he is struggling to comprehend the gravity of this somber moment, which explains his uncharacteristically subdued nature as his owner nears the end of her life. It is as if his sorrow has rendered him speechless.
Studies have shown that parrots often experience grief when faced with the loss of a loved one. International Celebration of Birds explains that this can manifest in parrots screaming uncontrollably or frantically searching their surroundings for the departed individual.
The Daily Mail has even reported cases of mourning parrots being prescribed Prozac. Furthermore, Petcha.com suggests that parrots require personal space and time to process their grief. The website enlightens us, stating that neglecting a pet parrot’s suffering can lead to long-term damage and undermine the bird’s trust in humans. Similar to people, the duration of a parrot’s grieving period can vary greatly.
If you find it challenging to comprehend the concept of bereaved birds, the video provided below will undoubtedly change your perspective. Even as the owner struggles to breathe and speak, she summons the strength to whisper “I love you.” In response, the parrot nestles itself closer. It is a poignant and melancholic scene that unequivocally establishes that animals are not devoid of emotions.