Stop the State-Sanctioned Killing of Connecticut's Monk Parakeets

On November 17, 2005, Alexander Moebus wrote:

I am a resident of the seaside community in Milford, Connecticut and delight in seeing these beautiful birds.

I just e-mailed Mr. Woodson at United Illuminating asking if there was any way of putting up a cage like grid over the transformers to keep the birds from causing any damage.

When I heard what they were doing to erradicate the Monk Parakeets on the news this morning, it literaly made me sick.

They are claiming that the birds are a non-native invasive species of Connecticut. My response is that People numbering over 6 Billion in this world are an invasive species. Does that mean its ok to kill people? I think not!

On November 17, 2005, Kristen wrote:

I found a injured wild monk parakeet in my driveway.We brought her into our home.It became a loving member of our family.She was the most loving and gentle creature.Everyone who came into contact with her feel in love and wanted one for themselfs.Im sorry to she has pasted on.because we loved her so much it was one of the saddess days in our household.These creatures are intelligent, communicating,sensitive, and very loving.In loving memory of our love ZOE
Im disturbed about what is being done to these precious birds.

West Haven CT

On November 17, 2005, Marguerite Kopko wrote:

I am outraged with the United Illuminating Company. I am outraged with the United States Department of Agriculture. I am outraged by the State of Connecticut’s Department of Enviromental Protection. I am outraged by the State of Connecticut’s Audubon Society. I called the CT. “Report Wildlife Violations” Dept. (1-800-842-HELP)to share my outrage and to find out who could put this to an immediate halt. I was told to call the Wildlife Dept. (1-860-424-3011)which, again, I expressed my outrage. I was then told to call the United Illuminating. I asked “why?” and was told that “well, they are the one’s that are doing it”. I responded in tears that “these birds are not responsible for any deaths in this state. These incredible birds adapted to our climate and our coastline! I said “It is mankind that has earmarked our planet for DOOM”. I said the “United Illuminating is being paid to commit this crime against those beautiful parrots but this State of Connecticut and the different departments put together this plan to kill these birds and they are the criminals, they are the guilty and they are destroying our planet!” I beg all who reads this to call the numbers above and express yourself loud and clear! Also the phone number for the United States Dept. of Agriculture is 1-413-253-8643. Please be a strong voice for the MONK PARROTS!!!

On November 17, 2005, Belinda Martinez wrote:

Here is a copy of a letter I sent to Mr. Woodson from the United Illuminating Company.
———————————————————————————————

Dear Mr. Woodson,



My name is Belinda Martinez and I am a resident of Meriden, CT. I am also a loving mother of two girls, two boys, two Jack Russell Terriers, a Sun Conure and a Monk Parakeet. My Monk Parakeet was given to me as a gift by my mother in law who purchased the bird in NY where they are perfectly legal (he is banded). My Baby (that’s his name) is a beautiful 8 yr old Monk Parakeet that has brought nothing but joy into our lives.



He brightly greets us in the mornings by saying “good morning” and coos us to sleep at night by saying softly “I love you”. I understand the reasoning behind your company wanting to eliminate any potential damage but how can this be accurately assessed if there are only two instances where nests were actually found at a fire site and mind you, they were not the cause of the fire!!!!



These beautiful birds are not hurting anyone. They are intelligent beautiful creatures that by man’s own mistake were released into our environment and were able to adapt. TO ADAPT!!!!! These beautiful birds went from sunshine and warmth from Central America to a four season climate and were able to adapt.



DON’T YOU SEE!!!!! THAT IS NATURE AT ITS BEST!!!!! How can you defy nature and evolution by trying to extinguish such a precious addition to our state? Was it not bad enough that we lost our own bird the Carolina Parakeet? Why discriminate so much against an indefensive creature?



Why not try to resort to other measures that are not so extreme? I’ve attached some pictures of my precious Baby for you to see…just look at how precious he is…He is an invaluable member of my family, and much like with my kids, there is NOTHING I will NOT do to protect him and keep him safe.



I urge you to please reconsider your company’s position and eagerness in wanting to KILL such an innocent creature.



Appreciating in advance your assistance in addressing this situation, I remain,



Sincerely,



Belinda Martinez

Meriden, CT

On November 17, 2005, concerned human being wrote:

ARE YOU KIDDING ME? These people are able to go home at night and sleep after gassing living creatures to death!!!!!Interesting how this got swept right under the carpet and this “plan” was never voted on or released to any media!!!!!Who ever came up with this as a “solution” is a sick, sick individual. PROTEST!!!!!!!!!! Help save the innocent parrots. There has to be another solution.

On November 17, 2005, Andrew Gentile wrote:

If you are reading this, please raise your voice in opposition. Only a blizzard of outraged correspondence is going to change this policy. I wrote the following letter and a similar letter to the states’ DEP and the Audobon Society:

Dear Mr. Woodson:

Although I am no animal rights activist, as a monk parakeet owner, I feel compelled to express my extreme disappointment with UIL’s policy of extermination of these remarkably intelligent and sensitive birds. While I acknowledge that there may be a risk of power outage or fire—albeit a very slight one, considering the paucity of any serious incidents to date—surely there are less drastic measures to be taken, most likely costing less than the $125,000 earmarked for the extermination. It would seem that the mere addition of an inexpensive cover, or even a chicken wire-like material, to the affected transformers should be sufficient to solve the problem. This current policy evinces a gross disrespect to wildlife, which is sadly reminiscent of the type of 19th century attitude which led to the extinction of so many of our native species, including the United States’ only indigenous parrot: the once-ubiquitous Carolina parakeet.

On behalf of these defenseless creatures, I urge UIL to reconsider its policy.

Very truly yours,

Andrew Gentile

Attorney

On November 17, 2005, Lori Meyer wrote:

Please, PLEASE cease this senseless slaughter! The Monk Parrots are beautiful, intelligent animals who despite all odds, grace us with their very being.
… I cannot even comprehend what kind of person could carry out the cold-blooded murder of them. They should be protected and revered. Shame on you!!!

On November 17, 2005, BrooklynParrot wrote:

I received this message from Brenda Piper tonight. We desperately need a lawyer in CT to stop the carnage! Here is her message:

The Connecticut Association For Aviculture is mobilizing as we speak. I am a firm believer that most government officials, elected or appointed, as well as business people will only listen to residents of their state. This is why it is very very important that any and all CT residents turn out in force via phone and email to stop the carnage. If anyone on this list is a lawyer or knows a lawyer practicing in CT that would be willing to help us get an injunction to halt the utility, please have them contact me immediately at pipersparrots@comcast.net. Thank you.

Brenda Piper
President

The Connecticut Association For Aviculture

On November 18, 2005, fran wrote:

I am sickened and outraged over this senseless slaughter of the beautiful Monk parakeets. Just think - our money - taxes and UI dollars - is going towards this. And using them for experiments? This adds to the trajedy. I can still remember the astonishment and joy I felt when I saw the first one in Bridgeport. Whenever my neighbor and I would hear one, we would rush outside to try and catch a glimpse. Everyone was thrilled over them - if you remember, there was a steady stream of cars riding by their nest in Black Rock. Now we are killing them. There must be some other way to handle this situation. I will do whatever possible to stop this.

On November 18, 2005, Leslie Noble wrote:

This is outrageous. I am unfortunately a customer of UI because I have NO CHOICE!!. I am furious that they are using stockholder/customer money to pay for these killings. We need to pressure them into stopping this, through petition or state legislative actions. There are other ways to solve this problem instead of killing these birds. Let’s not forget this when the want to raise the rates again telling us how they aren’t hitting their profit goals. Maybe if they stopped wasting money on killing living things and invested it we wouldn’t keep paying higher rates. Please publish Mr Woodson’ s email address so that we can urge himn to stop this carnage.

On November 18, 2005, Judy Saunders wrote:

I cried when I read U.I’s plan to KILL the Monk Parrots. If New York could find a way to save them so can Connecticut. We all have to get everyone we know to protest this.

On November 18, 2005, Kari wrote:

I am a Bridgeport resident and never knew these birds even existed until 2 yrs ago. Since then we put up feeders in our yards and when these birds feed on them my whole family runs out just to watch them because they are so beautiful. I am the owner of a cockatiel and parrotts are one of the smartest animals in the world. I don’t know how these people who are gassing these loving creatures live with themselves everyday. I think these birds are a beautiful assett to CT’s wildlife. I am also apalled at the audubon society who supposedly is for the protection of birds and their habitat…I think very little of them now!!! Take down some of the nests but don’t kill them - let them fly free.

On November 18, 2005, HeatherM wrote:

I live on the coastline and am lucky enough to have several of the Monk Parakeet nests located near my house. They are truly beautiful birds. It amazes me that with all of the brain power and technology we have at our finger tips, the only solution we could come up with was to remove the nests and kill the birds.
Ok, so nests located on the UI poles MAY have caused some power outages. I can understand removing the nests, but why kill the birds? They have not caused any deaths, they have not caused problems with any other native species, they have not spread any disease. What is the purpose of killing off hundreds of these birds? When did we start choosing which animals get to inhabit our state and which ones don’t?

If the CEO of UI and CT State Reps were smart, they would remember that outrages like this stay with voters, taxpayers, etc. Spending 125K to euthanize innocent birds doesn’t make sense and is just cruel.

On November 18, 2005, Mar wrote:

As I was waiting for a pot of coffee to brew this morning, I was horrified by the article in the Record Journal describing what UI was doing to the beautiful, innocent birds. How would they like if someone went to their home and put a hole in their house? When they went to find out what it was, someone captured them and killed them. This is absolutely an act of animal cruelty. I cant’ express my anger at this huge company. Have these people ever had a bird as a pet? We have one and they are the sweetest and loveable creatures that are on this earth. There has to be a better way of relocating them if they feel that they must be moved. If not, then just LEAVE THEM ALONE !!!!!!!

On November 18, 2005, Barbara L.. Albrecht wrote:

I am extremely upset this morning after reading today’s edition of the CT Post. It really sickens me that supposedly intelligent people cannot think of another alternative but death to solve their “problems”. United Illuminating could remove the nests, placing them in trees in area parks and forests. They could then put up some type of deterance to prevent the monk parakeets from nesting on the utility poles in the future. How can these people sleep at night after euthanizing these beautiful, innocent birds? United Illuminating and the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture better hire savier people who, as needed in this situation, possess the vision to value life instead of death.

On November 18, 2005, Jim Stephen wrote:

This whole situation was brought to my attention this morning.
It has sense ruined my day with nauesa as to think we are murdering this beautiful creatures. As a parrot owner, I am almost in tears to even imagine the horror these animals are going thru when they are attacked at their nests. I own a blue crown,sun and green cheek conure and they bring me nothing but absolute joy every day with their antics and talking. We need to stop big company’s who think they can do whatever they want to nature.

I am all for removing the nests from poles but the birds dont need to be killed. As everyone has stated, protective screens would easily do the trick but as always, big company’s lack common sense just like the goverment. I can only pray that these innocent slaughtered animals will be in a better place.

Jim

On November 18, 2005, Tisha DelRocco wrote:

I am a Stratford, CT resident and I think that what the UI is doing is absolutely outrageous and disgusting. These beautiful monk paraketes are innocent animals being destroyed by the UI so that they can raise our rates because they claim they aren’t hitting their goals. I’m sure this erradication process costs a considerable amount of money. Why can’t they put that money into just moving the animals to another area. How these people can sleep at night is beyond me. Leave these beautiful birds alone!!! New York has found a way to save them, so why can’t Connecticut do the same?

On November 18, 2005, Colleen Snow wrote:

I can understand taking down the nests as they may pose a fire threat….MAYBE????…but why not wait and let them have a safe, warm nest for the winter months which are upon us? This process of euthanizing these beautiful, innocents little birds makes me sick. I,like many others in the area, am a customer of the UI Company and it is very disheartening to think that some of the money we pay them will go towards this disgusting effort. How do they figure they have the right to kill them? Shame, shame, shame. I wholeheartedly hope they reconsider.

On November 18, 2005, Brian P wrote:

Nationally syndicated talk show host Dr. Phil McGraw has often been quoted as saying that resolving conflict is not about determining who’s right and wrong, but rather about developing a plan about which all the parties can get excited. With that in mind, I’d like to see if there are realistic alternatives to extermination that can be explored to remedy the alleged safety problem.

Business executives and State officials will not be moved by emotional arguments; they certainly will not be moved by comparisons of animals to people. They would, however, hopefully be moved by reasonable alternative solutions. My question is to what extent this organization or other individuals have been involved with these executives and officials to explore alternatives. For example, would it be possible to capture and transfer the birds elsewhere? Are there physical barriers that can be erected to prevent birds from nesting near the power lines? Is there something tantamount to a scare crow that would prevent the birds from roosting near power lines?

I was only made aware of this issue this morning. I know that in the movie, The Wild Parrots of Telegraph Hill, it was highlighted that the same issue confronted San Francisco; public officials were considering exterminating on grounds of being “non-native,” but public opposition was so great, that at least for now, the officials have backed off. This leads me to another idea: if the birds can be viewed as assets, as opposed to liabilities, perhaps executives and officials can be persuaded to save them. This rationale has worked in many parts of the world in the efforts to save wildlife.

In the list of people to contact, don’t discount City/County council members, State officials, or even Congressional representatives and senators. Especially local officials have a much greater impact on issues like these than the national figures. By the way, people domiciled in CT generally will have a lot more sway in their state than people seeking to persuade from the outside, because they are the voters on whom public officials rely to stay in office.

I would be interested in hearing any thoughts on this issue, in response to my query here. I hope we can find a solution before it is too late.

On November 18, 2005, Wendy Regan wrote:

I learned of the Monk Parakeet inhabiting Connecticut only about 8 or 9 years ago when visiting a client at their home along the Milford Shore. I was intrigued and delighted at these beautiful birds taking up residence in such an unlikely setting. I researched the birds and how they came to inhabit Connecticut and have told many fellow birdlovers about this phenomenon. This morning I turned on the news only to become sickened over the inhumane attempt at eradicating these beautiful creatures. We prosecute those who abuse animals, yet the UI has been given the green light to do just that! I will be writing to every contact at the top of this page to beg for clemency of these innocent animals. In the meantime, if anyone is joining to form a protest please keep me informed at Wendyleigh1130@aol.com as I feel the need to stay involved in this cause.

On November 18, 2005, robert charlesworth wrote:

Does it occur to anyone how intelligent these birds are,just to know to build a nest next to the transformers attests to the fact these birds are smart, you dont see any other animals taking advantage of this heat sorce.
Also it has been said they can’t destroy there nests because they will come back to them, another testiment as to there intelligence

On November 18, 2005, robert charlesworth wrote:

please lets protest this we can find out wher there doing this and protest get a news crew on the scene and put pressure on them to stop this. i’m sure people are willing to adopt thes birds and take good care of them.

On November 18, 2005, Donna-Lee McGrath wrote:

I am attaching a copy of the letter I faxed to the U.I. as well as Senator Christopher Dodd and Senator Joe Lieberman on November 17th. If I had known prior to that date I certainly would have done so sooner.

To Whom It May Concern:

I want to strongly oppose the destruction of the tropical birds, which I understand your company is currently practicing. This is totally unacceptable and should be discontinued immediately. I cannot think of one good reason why this is being done. There must be many other alternatives that you can use to protect your telephone and utility poles from any wildlife. If anything, squirrels would seem to be a more viable threat than birds.

I believe that this practice should be discontinued immediately and hopefully your company will find an alternative way to protect the utility and telephone poles and cease this inhumane killing of very beautiful tropical birds.

On November 18, 2005, S.Smith wrote:

The killing of the birds show the inhumanity of big corporations who feel they must dominate. The killings are senseless. There are alternatives. Use them.

On November 18, 2005, Karen wrote:

I am not an activist, but a wildlife lover and observer. I broke into tears yesterday after reading the CT post about the parakeets! It then turned into outrage! It makes me sick! I proceeded to rapidly find fax numbers and Emails for all of the DEP, UI, and Audubon Society. Immediatle I sent my outrage to them, basically stating that they are murderers and have no right to destroy these beautiful birds. If they must remove the nests, ok, but don’t DESTROY THE BIRDS. NY and NJ have decides that they will wait until spring and remove the nests before breeding season, and the birds will build nests elsewhere. NOT KILL THE BIRDS!

I live in Shelton, and only a couple of years ago discovered the parakeets. My family and I take drives and walks along the shoreline specifically to visit the birds. They are so fascinating and beautiful. I wish I had them in my yard.

Please do what ever you can to stop this. The more people who voice their opinions, the better.

On November 18, 2005, debbie zarembski wrote:

LEAVE THE BIRDS ALONE wait till early summer after the babies are born and off on their own. don’t kill them !!

On November 18, 2005, doug fast wrote:

if you need to spend our tax dollars then why not build them a habitat so desirable they would want to live there instead!! there are so many alternatives I’m surprised our states politicians aren’t getting involved, if for no other reason, than to raise public opinion of themselves to secure a re-election or as a campaign strategy for the next upcoming election!!!

On November 19, 2005, Fran S. wrote:

Hi Everyone!: I’ve done lots of research about the birds over the last few days-about both the monks themselves and what we can do to help. I’ve found a great site that makes it very simple:

BrooklynParrots.com: http://www.brooklynparrots.com/


I realize that we are all busy, especially at this time of the year but PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE check out this site and send an email to those listed. They make it very simple. Even if you only have time to send a quick few lines to 1 or 2 of them-it will be better than none at all. The only way we can stop this is by voicing our concerns. Already, we are getting lots of attention but the killing has not yet stopped so we need to bombard them with as many emails as possible. We realize that something needs to be done about the situation but there are other ways to handle it. Please, someone, post when any meetings will be so that we can attend. I could not find the date or time of the last. Did anyone mention anything about finding out where the capturing will be and staging a protest during that time? Be peaceful but be heard! Get the media involved as well. I’m sure they’d cover it. If so, I will be there!

On November 19, 2005, sara angus wrote:

I just wrote to Mr. Woodson regarding these birds. I pointed out that in Florida they had a similar problem but instead of killing the birds, they teamed up with bird breeders and rescuers who gave them excellent homes (these parakeets tame very easily and adapt very well to being kept in captivity). I told him what great PR he would get if he did the same thing- hit him right in the wallet!, instead of the negative PR that he’s currently getting. If more people said similar things, maybe he’d get the idea. I’m also writing Bird Talk magazine about this.

[Blog editor’s note: The Monk Parakeets should remain free. There’s no reason to take them into captivity, and Connecticut has room enough for these birds. The problem is the attitude of UI, the DEP, the USDA’s animal killing agents, and Conn. Audubon. United Illuminating should call off the bird-killing effort, and their customers might decide to not have holiday lights this year in an effort to get that message across. One poster suggested UI customers turn off their lights for a period of time each evening to drive the point home. Let’s say 8:00 pm when the birds are being tormented?]

On November 20, 2005, Julie Cook wrote:

I don’t understand who’s brilliant idea this was as it is only a temporary solution. These birds are extremely intelligent and they will build again. This is completely useless and inhumane. What is wrong with these people. I am so upset that this is permitted. I live on the West Haven coast line and have many of these beautiful birds in my area. This has to be stopped at all cost. I have written the UI, Governor Rell and the EPA in hopes this can be terminated. Does anybody know when during the night they capture the birds? I need to do everything I can to stop this even if it means waking up my neighbors in the middle of the night.

On November 20, 2005, Stacy T wrote:

I live on the West Haven Coast line and the birds live across the street from us. They are one of the reasons i love where i live. They’ve adapted to our climate and have established their home here. How many people can ever say they have an exotic bird living in their hometown. Ive never lost electricity nor have i ever seen fires start from the nests. People are facinated by them and always take pictures of them. The UI company has no right in killing these birds and it needs to stop. We love the birds here in West Haven.

On November 21, 2005, Barbara Moscato wrote:

I am completely outraged that the senseless murder of innocent monk parakeets is occurring under our very noses, at our expense!! These are beautiful, sensitive and intelligent creatures. It should be a crime to harm any one of them. YOU SHOULD ALL BE ASHAMED OF YOURSELVES!!!!!! How would you feel if you were targeted to be exterminated? Is this fair? I THINK NOT!!!! What I find most disturbing is that this was supported by the Connecticut Audobon and the DEP?????

On November 21, 2005, Storm Somers wrote:

I too am greatly disturbed by the parakeet exterminations going on in my community of West Haven and in other shoreline communities. I have written to express my objectons to UI, the USDA, the DEP and the Audubon Society. I am sure there are many concered people like myself who would be more than willing to spend the time and effort or whatever it takes to help find a more humane and effective alternative to this extermination project. What can we do?

On November 21, 2005, Karen wrote:

I was just reading an article in a trade publication (Nov. issue of Light and Medium Truck) dealing with United Illuminating’s problems with monk parakeets.

The article quotes one of UI’s reliability engineers and states that animals, mainly squirrels, are responsible for about 9% of United Illuminating’s power outages each year. Only 9% and mainly squirrels?! So how did the monk parakeets get to be the scapegoat for UI’s power outages?…

On November 26, 2005, Marsha Siano wrote:

The way they want to treat this problem — by killing the parakeets — is not the right way because we are already trying to solve too many of these problems (with coyotes, deer, etc.) by killing animals. Also, they are not carrying disease, so they could easily be moved to another area.

On November 28, 2005, Evelyn Villanova wrote:

If the CT EPA and CT Audobon condone this horror, shame on them! There are other ways… follow Con Edison’s example.

Stop the gassing!! UI should be ashamed.

On November 29, 2005, Duane Tash wrote:

———— Original Message ————

Subject: Parakeets’ Plight in Connecticuit

Date: Tue, 29 Nov 2005 05:35:57 -0600

To: nathaniel.woodson@uinet.com, monte.d.chandler@aphis.usda.gov, mbull@ctaudubon.org, dale.may@po.state.ct.us

Parakeets’ Plight in Connecticut

I would hope that with some of the brilliant minds in Connecticut better solutions could be found than killing species off in mans’ way!

Sincerely,

Duane Tash
Lenexa, Kansas

“I do this really moronic thing that the government doesn’t want me to do. It is called thinking” - George Carlin
—

On November 30, 2005, maria-marin-travers wrote:

i hope my signature helps.

On November 30, 2005, Fran wrote:

Julie C. was arrested tonight during the taking of the parakeets from a nest in West Haven. She was actually ARRESTED and taken to the police station. It was filmed and is on Channel 8 news. Good publicity for our cause but this doesn’t help Julie who now has this arrest on her record and is in need of a lawyer. She had to post bail and has a court date. PLEASE - IS ANYONE OUT THERE A LAWYER OR KNOW OF ONE THAT WILL HELP HER? Will anyone stand by her during this time? Please help!

On December 1, 2005, Diane Field wrote:

Let’s not forget how these “pests” first “invaded” their “non native” land. Irresponsible pet traders and mass importation led to the feral populations. We brought them here—took them from their native habitats. They learn to adapt to the weather, work hard to survive here and now they are a “nuisance”. Just when I think I can’t read a story that outrages me than the one before, I read this. Makes me ill. Those beautiful birds have done nothing wrong but learn to survive.

On December 1, 2005, God wrote:

Must I repeat myself?

Thou shall not kill.

On December 1, 2005, Nan Burke wrote:

In regard to CT’s monk parakeet eradication policy: TRY TO FIND AN ALTERNATIVE TO HEARTLESS MURDER. PLEASE.

On December 2, 2005, Terry Corbin wrote:

Monk Parakeets……immigrants from another country and climate that adapted and thrived in our polluted environment. Nature overcoming mankind’s thoughtless raping of our planet only to be slaughtered for their effort. Shameful.

On December 2, 2005, Chris Greeley wrote:

The quaker has adapted to an urban environment, they are not in conflice with native species, they have limited colonies, and no detrimental impact at this point.

I am confident they will outlast the power company. However, despite their resiliance, they do need our help.

There have been no transformers blown due to quakers. Any nest that is too large is a result of neglect on the part of the power company over a long period of time - these nests are built cumulatively.

So why is it that the power company can neglect responsibility when it suits them, then kill when they realize they have been irresponsible? BAD FORM.

Stay focused on the task…the quakers will prevail in the end, many good people are there working on this, keep it up and THANK YOU to those helping. You will defeat these wrongdoers.

On December 3, 2005, jonathan smith wrote:

leave the poor birds alone!!!!!

On December 4, 2005, Maryann Hackett wrote:

Stop the unnecessary killing of this bird. If possible move the nests, if not there must be an alternative solution. This makes no sense in our society; we need a more humane approach.

On December 4, 2005, barbara depietro wrote:

find another way to take care of the monk problem. the ui has enough money to seek another way. find it.

On December 4, 2005, James Carl D'Amour wrote:

Though I am not a resident of Connecticut, I am moved by these developments to share these thoughts.

As others have written, if this species fills the niche of the Carolina parakeet, is able to survive in a northeastern environment, then perhaps it is more beneficial to have this animal than otherwise.

Exterminate/destroy in the absence of other options, or the first option is old-school thinking. Let’s think of more imaginative alternatives. If we are going to be concerned with the effects of this “invasive”, then perhaps a more appropriate review of “invasive” species is the effects of urban sprawl on the Eastern Seaboard on the local and regional ecosystem.

To those in the position of power. Use alternative, more humane means I am confident you have at your disposal. The number of incidents alleged to have caused problems do not warrant wholesale slaughter.

Let’s have some new thinking here.

On December 5, 2005, Pamela Wall wrote:

I just read about this story. How utterly inhumane some of these Connecticut decision makers are! It makes me hate Connecticut all the more for this backward thinking and killing of living creatures who have done nothing wrong. Why can’t they eradicate the nests and let the parrots move on, like was done in Brooklyn. Why kill with gas? How do these disgusting people sleep at night? Please let me know how else I can help. I have already written to the links provided on this website. We must stop this senseless killing. I once read a quote that said something like the way a people treat the lesser members of society…the children, the elders and the animals…shows their level of sophistication, compassion and humanity. Well, these Connecticut decision makers are showing themselves to be unsophisticated, uncaring swine. Wouldn’t it be something if one of these UI workers stood up and refused to carry out the task assigned to trap these birds? Now that would be something to be proud of!

On December 6, 2005, JSCONARELLO wrote:

IT IS SO DISTRESSING TO KNOW THESE BEAUTIFUL CREATURES ARE BEING DESTROYED. THEY HAVE EVERY RIGHT TO BE HERE & EXIST, JUST LIKE YOU & I, MR. PREZ OF THE ELECTRICAL COMPANY.

On December 6, 2005, Joseph Walukiewicz wrote:

Since when is UI so concerned about either the health or concerns of people? One need only recall their refusal to bury the imminent hi-voltage power cables to reveal the transparency of this assertion. To quote Nathaniel Woodson, UI president and CEO “we’re going to drive harder than hell for good performance” (http://www.twst.com/info/info440.htm). Given this past disregard for the well being of others, one might conjecture that neither the lives of paying UI customers nor those of the tragic monk parakeets are conducive to his mission.

Apparently his contracted for $600,000 yearly base salary is not enough for Mr. Woodson. Or, perhaps the allure of earning some 60,550 additional ‘performance shares’ (provided for in said agreement) is proving too much of a temptation. Or could it be that Woodson is now pinching corporate pennies due to his ill conceived dealings with the now defunct Enron…forcing others to pay with their lives for his past failures? One thing is, however, quite clear what motivates Mr. Woodson and his company, and it is not a sense of compassion for anyone or anything. That said, I do empathize with those caring and compassionate employees of UI who disagree with the current actions of their ‘leadership’.

Has anyone considered a protest at the UI festival of Lights in New Haven (which is ongoing each night until 9:00)? That would be a good place to get the word out.

On December 9, 2005, Charles D. Gelfand wrote:

I am terribly upset at the wanton killing of innocent creatures….Please don’t kill these birds.
…We were planning a vacation to Connecticut this Spring.

This afternoon we cancelled our reservations, and will be spending our money

elsewhere.

I will not spend one thin dime in Connecticut as long as you will kill

innocent birds like this.

On December 13, 2005, Dawn D. McGlone wrote:

Again in Connecticut, they have demonstrated how man’s inhumanity to man is only exceeded by its cruelty to animals.

On December 13, 2005, Dr. Melanie Ice wrote:

I think it is cruel and inhumane to kill the Quaker parrots. They are very sweet and intelligent birds that a lot of people enjoy. What will they do next, Kill cats and dogs?

On December 21, 2005, Pat (from Ohio) wrote:

One who first resorts to violence is the one who has run out of ideas! How would the family of Nathaniel Woodson, the CEO of UI, react if his son or daughter said, “Dad, why are you killing these birds? Isn’t there a better way?”, would he rethink his decision?

One of the best things I loved about Connecticut was the coast & these birds. Nathaniel has murdered Connecticut’s family of birds. Squirrels can be much more destructive and they are not systematically being killed. If Nathaniel got the wrong advice from USDA, Audubon & DEP, he should admit his mistake & get better advice to save these innocent, beautiful creatures!
Any birds that survive will breed & eventually come back!

In the meantime, be careful when you look up!

And Barbara adds:

Please, please stop the killing - we can live on this good earth with all the wildlife with heartbeats.

On December 26, 2005, Keith wrote:

The town in Texas where I live has recently had a similar situation. There were groups of small parrots (not sure exactly which species) and also Pearl and Lutino cockatiels nesting on utility poles along a stretch of road near my home.

… I was watching a piece on the news where the utility companies were being petitioned by the locals to discontinue the extermination of some exotic birds which had taken up residence on poles which supported the large electrical transformers (obviously for the heat that they put out). Immediately I thought, I hope they don’t find the ones here in my area, because then they might….and to my horror the very pictures being shown were of the nests right in my area, as I recognized the buildings and the street names. Many nests were destroyed, and many adult and fledgeling birds were killed.

The people in the area were successful in stopping the killing at leaast for now, as I have recently driven past and seen that there are still some nests, and new ones have been built as well. As far as I know there is still legislation pending; (YES, THE UTILITY COMPANIES, TELEPHONE AND ELECTRICITY, ARE ACTUALLY FIGHTING FOR THE “RIGHT” TO KILL THESE MAGNIFICENT CREATURES!!!) In their estimation somehow it is more “cost effective” (because it is, after all, only about the money) to spend tens of thousands of dollars on extermination, rather than a few thousand to build protective barriers around the transformers. It sounds too much like a thirst for killing to me, and nothing more.

I know that the climate here in Texas is a lot less extreme than in CT, especially in winter and by nature these animals are more acustomed to the heat and humnidity that we experience in the south. But the fact that these birds and your own Monk Parrots have been able to adapt to climates so alien to what they are indigenous to is a testament to how amazingly resilient and intelligent these creatures are. I wish your state the most success possible in stopping this senseless butchering of nature’s sweetest and most gentle creatures, and I know thet you support us, if nothing else, in prayer, for our success as well.

It is my belief that a quantum leap has to be acheived that will open the eyes of the political and corporate beaurocrats who give frighteningly less respect to life than to their beloved dollar. They must be reached on a level that they understand; money and votes. This obvioulsy can only be accomplished by the cooperation of the masses. Information is the key and sadly too many are not aware of this, and so many other instances also where the almighty dollar has won out over the life of innocent animals, who ironically have depended on man to conceive of ways that allow us to co-exist without their senseless and unnecessary slaughter.

On December 27, 2005, john carver wrote:

Add my name to those outraged by these actions.

Although I am from California, Connecticut will not recieve any support from me if this action is carried out.
Indeed the whole state will be tainted by such inappropriate activites.

jc

On January 4, 2006, gail miller wrote:

I suggest that the killers of these lovely birds see the documentary “The Wild Parrots of Telegraph Hill” and then try to sleep at night. On second thought, everyone trying to save the parrots should see it too! It is a beautiful love story.

On January 5, 2006, Debbie Cook wrote:

I don’t know what’s with the govering folks in Connecticut, 3 years ago they were shaking swan eggs so no more swans would be born, 2 years ago till present they have a deer hunt to kill off the deer and now they want to kill these sweet little birds. I just wish they would pick on someone their own size for a change…

On April 10, 2006, JAZAMIRA wrote:

PLEASE STOP THE KILLING OF THESE HARMLESS LITTLE ANIMALS THAT IS NOT EVEN COOL THATS LIKE KILLING ANIMALS

On July 14, 2006, Darren wrote:

Sir
I am a breeder In Anniston Alabama.

I would be more than happy to take and raise any and all Quakers you can save at my cost for shipping.

Understand that they will be breed and I will start as many col. as I can get going.
thank you

[Blog editors’ note: At Friends of Animals, we hope to discourage the concept that any animals should be treated as livestock. Parrots, like all conscious beings, have an interest in not being shipped and bred, just as they have an interest in not being gassed by a utility company. We respect that interest, and are working to see that the birds can be free to go about their business in safety right here in Connecticut. ]

On August 20, 2006, dayanna santana wrote:

WHY ARE YOU (UI) KILLING MONK PARAKEETS!?AM MAD AT THE PEOPLE WHO ARE KILLING THEM. WOULD YOU LIKE IT IF THEY KILLED YOU ?WHAT DID THEY EVER DID TO YOU!?WHAT ,DID THEY HIT YOU,DID THEY PUNCH YOU?WHAT DID THEY DO TO YOU?

On March 13, 2007, Stavroula Economou wrote:

I live in Greece and since October of 2006 I live with a sweet Monk Parakeet. When I took him (I’ve named him Paco but I don’t know whether “he” is male or female) he was baby. I brought him up as he was my child! I loved him so much and so does he! He speaks to me, he sings with me and when I call him to come he is coming and climbing on me! I really went shocked with the things I read, happening there and I can’t believe this unbelievable murder that takes place there!

I really didn’t knew anything about those things and I don’t know in which way I could (if I could help) but I’m really dissapointed!

For once again Man shows his “power” to innocent small creatures who don’t harm him! But the only thing that he is managing at last is to kill himself slowly…


WE KILL OURSELVES!

FIND A BETTER SOLUTION, YOU “SMART” MURDERERS!!!!

On July 18, 2007, lynn gehr wrote:

why are you killing these beautiful birds. Who gives you the right who lives and dies. try using some other methods that wont hurt any animal. Try using some fencing around the transformers or go out and build some bird houses near there and put the nest in them. your method of destroying our wildlife makes me sick to my stomach. remember the only species that is a nuisance is MAN!. sincerely lynn

On February 27, 2008, Rocco J. Frank Jr. wrote:

Just wanted to share that you have my support in fighting United Illuminating. I am the son of Dr. Frank in Westport the veterinarian not to be confused, and I am also running for the CT State legislature.

When I learned that UI and Dobson were killing animals I took offense to it and made it part of my agenda to protect not just birds but all animals. I would love to take part in any activities you have up in NH county if any, and also hear your thoughts on how I can help be part of the solution.

Thanks for all that you guys do, you are the voice of those who cannot speak!

Rocco J. Frank Jr.

On August 9, 2008, J. Martin wrote:

Born in Ct, I am appalled to hear of such irresponsible and primitive behavior. Whoever instituted this grant should be exiled from US soil and the program canceled!
Another cheap lobbyist selling us out as I have experienced first hand.

Is this still going on?

On October 31, 2008, Thaheera wrote:

Hi i am from singapore. my previous school had an aviary. the main display: monk parakeets. they are lovely creatures who are just as intelligent. please please please stop this SENSELESS slaughter if it is still going on. did you see what happened to the lovely carolina parakeets or the passenger pigeons? does america hope to lose another bird species?