Darwin is older than I thought:(

[Terry57]

When we got Darwin back in Sept., we were told she was 17, so that's what we have had in our heads. My hubby was just playing with her, and read her band for the first time, and she is actually 22. I am so sad as that is 5 years less we will get to spend with her
She is such a good girl, and I just love her so much!

 

[JerseyWendy]

I look at it a little differently, Terry. Because Darwin is in your care, she will have a much better AND longer life.

I think you need a hug!

 

[Terry57]

Awww, that hug did the trick And I hope you're right and that she lives a long, long time!
You are the best, my friend!

 

[kendrafitz]

She is so very lucky that you found each other, 17 or 22. It's so awesome that she has such a loving mommy that is sad that she missed out on 5 years that you spent apart! How many birds can have those bragging rights?

 

[Terry57]

Thank you Kendra I appreciate that!

 

[Allee]

Very well said! I agree! You probably added at least five extra years due to love and good care. Darwin, and the rest of your flock are so lucky to be loved that much.

 

[Terry57]

Thank you Allee! Y'all have made my day with your kind comments

 

[Kinny]

I agree with the others!

When a bird knows that it is cared for and above all - loved, they live not only to eat and get scratches, but they also live for the person who loves them. They hang on for you..

(One example is my Muta. When it was eventually time for him to go he could've just gone within a day, but he hung on, for nearly a week. And he hung on at the Vets when I said my goodbyes and cuddled him, you could see it in hsi eyes that he was continuing to fight and live for me.)

It just goes to show how much of an impact a loving owner can have on a bird. Just being there for Darwin and loving her is already giving her a reason and a will to keep going. And you take great physical care of her too! She couldn't ask for a better Mum.. or Dad? I'll just say parront

 

[Terry57]

I am a Mom
Thank you so much for sharing your story of Muta..brought tears to my eyes.
I have taken all the comments to heart, and will just love her for as long as is given to us, and enjoy all the happiness & love she gives us, which is immeasurable.

 

[Allee]

Terry, after reading this post I had to look at your albums. I've never seen a hawkhead in person. Darwin is beautiful. I just met my first BHP, his name is Jet, he belongs to my avian vet. You have an amazing flock. Focus on Hello as long as possible, enjoy every single minute, don't think of goodby until you are forced to. You fur babies are adorable too.

 

[Terry57]

Thank you so much! Zeke and Harry are gorgeous as well

 

[crimson]

ditto....what everyone else said.

you take such great care of your birds Terry, you've probably added years to him.

 

[Terry57]

Thank you, Beth, I surely do hope so

 

[Anansi]

We all KNOW so, Terry.

 

[Terry57]

Thank you Stephen

 

[kq_fan]

Aw well I agree with jersey Wendy, now he will live a happy calm life and even though he is older, he is probably so relaxed and happy now! As a cute spider once said, keep your chin up!

 

[Terry57]

Probably the only spider I ever found cute