Birdworld keepers prepare for a day in the life of a parrot
Keepers at Birdworld in Surrey are preparing to step into the life of their resident parrots tomorrow, getting into character by abandoning their uniforms and donning parrots' plumage colours.
Keepers Suzy Smithson and Lenka Panackova will be attempting to spend the day, from 9am until 6pm, in the Parrots in Flight aviary, interacting with the birds, and chatting to the public.
They will not be given anything to eat or drink all day, except for what the parrots would receive, and they will have no bathroom breaks.
Accustomed to seeing keepers in Birdworlds’ dark green uniform, these brightly coloured strangers will no doubt cause excitement among the birds.
Suzy said: “The true challenge for us will be coping with the inquisitive birds…we will be inspected, pecked, hopped on and have our laces attacked throughout the day.”
The event aims to raise money and awareness of threatened species in the wild. Sponsorship will go towards the rescue of penguins in the wild, the reintroduction of the great bustard to Britain and local charities such as butterfly conservation and habitat protection.
To support Suzy and Lenka in this challenge, either by attending or by making a donation, or for more information about the event click here.
The Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) is inviting applications from veterinary students to attend a one-week extramural studies (EMS) placement in July 2026.
