As a safe haven for animals we live by the ethos of the five freedoms: 

Freedom from hunger or thirst
Freedom from discomfort
Freedom from pain, injury or disease
Freedom to express normal behavior
Freedom from fear and distress 

We believe that each animal is an individual in both character and spirit and all are equally deserving of our love, care and respect, and that No Cage Is Big Enough. None of our residents have the opportunity of true autonomy and wild freedom, so it is our responsibility as their caretakers to follow their lead and support them on their journey of recovery. It is our hope that every parrot under our care will find fulfillment, peace and tranquility here at our sanctuary. 

Our Facility

The New England Exotic Wildlife Sanctuary is situated on 23 acres in rural Rhode Island. Our sanctuary occupies a reclaimed building once known as "Chickadee Farms", a large factory chicken farm (far Left building).  We have renovated the longest wing of the building, which spans over 25,000 sq. ft., dividing it into 4 large sections known as Education Hall, South Park, Central Park and North Park.  These divisions allow us to better manage our population and work distribution.  

Social Support & Flocking

In addition to nutrition and health, social support is one of the most vital needs of parrots.  Parrots are wired for companionship and flocking, but in captivity many spend their lives alone in a cages.  It is our goal to give all of our residents the opportunity to find con-specific companionship through integration into a flock or aviary.  However, because every parrot is an individual whose life has been shaped by a unique set of circumstances, there is no "one-size-fits-all" care plan. Some parrots are challenged to form bonds with other birds or relinquish the familiarity of the cage. We know we must respect the individual needs of all our birds and follow their lead. 

Enrichment

With their brilliant minds - these spirited animals need constant mental and emotional stimulation. We routinely distribute toys, replace aviary branches, encourage foraging, and time outside as opportunities for enrichment. 

Health and Nutrition

Each day our birds are fed a veterinary approved diet.  Nutritionally balanced pellets, almonds (in and out of shell), walnuts (in and out of shell), fresh salad (kale, beets, apples, summer squash, celery, carrots, sweet potato, corn, peas, acorn squash, and/or whole wheat pasta).

Many of our birds require specialized feeding such as the Eclectus (fresh sprouts) and lorikeets (nectar powder).  We also customize diets for individual birds depending on factors of species, health or age. 

We are proud to have the support and guidance of a nationally recognized, board certificed avian vet, Dr. Hank Wietsma DVM, ABVP.  Together our collective knowledge of avian health, behavior and social needs enables us to create and offer a true sanctuary experience.