Bye Bye Birdie

birdie_0By Bobbey White
Bittersweet. That’s how I would describe my last days helping to care for Birdie, the juvenile female dolphin that was rescued last December near the bird sanctuary in Bolivar. After 8 long months of rehab, provided by TMMSN volunteers, Birdie was finally healthy! Her sassy spirit had pulled this beautiful girl through the literal fight for her life. After many tests, Bride was diagnosed with severe hearing loss and as we know, auditory functioning is vital for dolphins to survive in their natural habitat. Because of this hearing loss, The National Marine Fisheries Service determined that Birdie did not meet the critical conditions for release into the wild. Although we had all hoped that Birdie could return to her natural home, we are grateful that she survived!

Stranded dolphin rescued (CBLN story 12-22-2014)

Birdie’s health improves (CBLN story 1-26-2015)

Birdie’s new permanent home is the Brookfield Zoo near Chicago, Illinois! This zoo is operated by the Chicago Zoological Society that specializes in veterinary care and dolphin research. What a perfect place for our special needs friend!! Birdie managed the long flight to her new home with amazing ease! Once again her remarkable attitude and ability to adjust worked to her advantage!! Birdie was accompanied to Brookfield by the director of TMMSN who stayed with Birdie for the adjustment phase

Birdie will be introduced to other dolphins and have many new and exciting experiences. Her days will be different, but thanks to all the wonderful volunteers at TMMSN, our beloved Birdie will enjoy a full and rewarding life. Birdie taught me many lessons and brought me much joy. I’ll never forget this amazing opportunity!

So, BYE BYE BIRDIE!! Gone but never forgotten. If I’m ever in Chicago, my first stop will be the Brookfield Zoo!

[10-5-2015]

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One Response to “Bye Bye Birdie”

  1. Nancy Bachman says:

    How Wonderful!!! It’s great to hear a successful rescue story!

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