Parrots escape London Zoo found in Cambridgeshire garden

On October 21, two blue-throated macaws escaped from London Zoo during their daily flying routine. They were not returned to their enclosure, prompting an immediate appeal from the zoo for the public’s help in locating the birds. The macaws were eventually spotted 60 miles away in a family's garden in Buckden, Cambridgeshire, six days after their escape. When zookeepers arrived to retrieve them, Lily and Margot flew into their arms, showcasing their recognition of caregivers despite the time away from their habitat. Upon their recovery, the birds were treated with a variety of nuts, including pumpkin seeds, walnuts, and pecans, indicating that they were in good health after their unintended adventure. However, as a precautionary measure and in compliance with standard protocols following an escape, the macaws were placed in quarantine at the zoo’s on-site animal hospital. This procedure is essential to monitor their health and ensure they did not come into contact with other wildlife that could pose a risk. Once their quarantine period concludes and health checks are completed, the macaws will be returned to their parents, Popeye and Ollie. This incident raises questions about the safety and management of animals at zoos, especially those that participate in free-flying programs. It also highlights the strong bond between the birds and their caretakers. Such occurrences are not uncommon; both domestic parrot owners and zoos experience similar cases. The rehabilitation of lost pets or exotic animals often relies on community engagement, as seen in this case where local residents aided in the birds' recovery.