Memphis the Macaw and the Realities of Caring For Wildlife

Not long ago, we introduced you to Memphis, an injured juvenile macaw we’d taken in, hoping to help him heal, with the intention that he’d eventually be released back into the wild.

After we discovered via x-ray that Memphis had a broken leg and wing, he went to the big city to have an orthopedist and exotic specialist perform surgery. After a month, when he returned for follow-up x-rays and pin removal, we sadly learned that his wing did not heal properly and he would never be able to fly again.

Memphis would need yet another surgery to remedy the situation with his wing, but in the meanwhile, he would have to return back to the sanctuary for the holidays while all of the vets involved decided on the next steps. We searched for a lifelong home where he would have space and the companionship of others of his kind. As wildlife rehabilitators, it is important to maintain a healthy distance from animals you believe will eventually return to the wild. Once we knew that Memphis could not be safely released, we were able to be a bit more interactive and affectionate with him – and he stole our hearts.

Recently, Memphis went in for his follow-up surgery. Mateus, who is a vet himself, accompanied Memphis to the orthopedist. Sadly, while under anesthesia, Memphis stopped breathing and passed away. Our hearts are broken because Memphis quickly became a sweet and naughty presence here at the sanctuary. He was young and cooperative, loved human help with scratching his itches, but also a chatty housemate who talked often to the other macaws around.

In our profession, you know you will face loss and heartbreak; each animal finds their own way into your heart. Memphis made a huge impression on everyone during his time here. It seems too quiet all of a sudden. But, you grieve, move forward, and take the lessons you learned from that loss with you for the next time.

Memphis has been privately cremated and we will release his ashes at the back of the sanctuary property. We have put together a few moments that show off his salty, yet charming, personality. We miss him already. We wish we’d all had more time together.

Comments(21)

CAROL OCONNELL says
January 31, 2022 at 2:23 pm
poor, poor Memphis…but oh how lucky he was that he fell into your arms and precious care. God Bless him and all of you!!!
Constance S. Harris says
January 31, 2022 at 2:33 pm
So beautiful ❤️
Allison Millman says
January 31, 2022 at 3:02 pm
Rest well dear Memphis ❤️
Sherry says
January 31, 2022 at 3:08 pm
I am so sorry for the loss of Memphis. He is a beautiful bird! Thank you sanctuary for caring for him!
Love to you all!❤️
- REPLY
  Sara says
  January 31, 2022 at 3:18 pm
  Thank you. We already miss him so much. He was such a bright spirit.
Angie Gibson says
January 31, 2022 at 3:24 pm
Those expressive beautiful eyes…..we will miss you Memphis ❤️
Strength, peace and comfort to everyone 🙏
Beji says
January 31, 2022 at 3:35 pm
Fly high, Memphis. RIP
lauren radspinner says
January 31, 2022 at 4:58 pm
Lots of Love. He will be missed <3
Alana says
January 31, 2022 at 5:02 pm
I’m so sorry for your loss of Memphis. R.I.P. sweet boy.
Debbie Sides says
January 31, 2022 at 5:10 pm
Oh Memphis was absolutely darling. Rest in peace dear boy. We send hugs to you all that helped him and I’m glad he experienced paradise on earth at ESB before he flew over the rainbow🌈
Cyr Ann says
January 31, 2022 at 5:12 pm
I’m heartbroken to hear of Memphis’s passing:(
I had a blue and gold macaw for 20 years and they truly are an amazing pet/family member.
RIP dear one.
Wim says
January 31, 2022 at 5:15 pm
R.I.P. Memphis 🕯️💔😥
You’ve tried to heal a friend in need. The magic of non-human sentient power is often miraculous. They always find the bridge to your heart. Wish you strength and courage.
Charlotte Hansen says
January 31, 2022 at 5:35 pm
A lovely tribute, I’m so sorry for your loss.
JoAnn Merriman-Eaton says
January 31, 2022 at 5:57 pm
Memphis, you beautiful boy. R.I.P. forever at GSE. You will be missed by your admirers from afar, but missed most of all by your family that cared for you, and loved you at GSE.
Gail Lindley says
January 31, 2022 at 8:01 pm
RIP beautiful Memphis
Thank you for giving him a chance.
JamesMichael says
January 31, 2022 at 10:10 pm
Be at peace, beautiful SPIRIT…
Gayle says
January 31, 2022 at 11:50 pm
I’m so sorry sweet Memphis passed away. What a charming, entertaining young guy he was. I’m sure he was grateful for all the love and care he received from all the human angels who loved and cared for him. He is now soaring free at the Rainbow Bridge and I’m sure he is overseeing daily operations and making sure all is well at the sanctuary, his earthly home. ❤️
Amie says
February 1, 2022 at 6:52 am
Both beautiful and heartbreaking. Fly high, sweet Memphis ❤️
Carey says
February 1, 2022 at 7:28 am
I’m so sorry to hear of the death of the beautiful Memphis, to all of you who knew him, thank you for trying
Patricia says
February 1, 2022 at 7:47 am
My deepest condolences. My house is covered with animal pictures. Elephants and other big animals in the living room, sea creatures and a photograph of a beautiful Memphis lookalike in my bedroom. I am heartbroken for you. 💙💛💚
Lori Hoover says
February 8, 2022 at 8:43 pm
Aww, I remember when you first introduced us to Memphis. I am so sorry to all of you, and him, that he did not make it. I’m not sure I can watch the whole video yet, I remember falling in love with him during that first video, but I will do so soon. I want to see it, just not ready to cry yet. Again, I am so sorry for the loss. Thank you for all everyone did for him. It’s important, it matters.

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