Escaped parrot safely back at wildlife park after 40-mile flight to Leamington

A military macaw parrot named Wilma was an unusual visitor to a Warwickshire vets after escaping from a West Midlands zoo and flying 40 miles to Leamington.
Avonvales Heathcote team hand over Wilma to Wild Zoological Park.Avonvales Heathcote team hand over Wilma to Wild Zoological Park.
Avonvales Heathcote team hand over Wilma to Wild Zoological Park.

Wilma escaped from Wild Zoological Park, near Stourbridge, and ended up in the care of Avonvale Veterinary Centres’ Heathcote practice, where she was taken by a member of the public.

Luckily, Wilma was microchipped, so staff were easily able to track down her owners at the zoo and return her home.

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Avonvale is using the episode to remind people of the importance of microchipping their flyaway friends.

Gemma Lawton, clinical director at the Heathcote practice, said: “Wilma was brought in by a member of the public after she flew onto his shoulder. Luckily, she was friendly and easy to put in a box and safely brought to our surgery.

“We’re familiar with the importance of microchipping our pet cats and dogs but this episode highlights the importance of microchipping pet parrots, too, as escapes can happen at any time and can be very unexpected when they do.

“We’re delighted to report this story had a happy ending for Wilma, who is now back at the park safe and sound.”

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For more information about Avonvale, which has branches in Kenilworth, Stratford, Warwick, Heathcote, Southam, Wellesbourne and Cubbington, visit www.avonvets.co.uk or search for Avonvale Veterinary Centres on Facebook.