Though the aviary has been a long-standing part of the park, with its current structure dating back to approximately 1999, the reality of its existence today is tragic. In the modern age, council-run aviaries like this one should not exist, as they fail to meet the complex needs of exotic birds. They lack the necessary care, compassion, and due diligence, and as a result, these birds endure unnecessary, often cruel deaths.

The suffering begins with the introduction of new birds. In the past, when birds were donated to the aviary, they were simply released without consideration for the season, weather, or even their health. This reckless disregard for their well-being led to heartbreaking tragedies, such as a budgie that froze to death in the winter and another that nearly starved because it was released with clipped wings and couldn't access food. Birds, especially those new to a flock, should be quarantined for at least 30 days to ensure they are free of disease and acclimatize properly. Without this basic care, they face dire consequences.

The selection of birds is equally thoughtless. Unsuitable species are placed together, causing stress and harm. A parrot suffering from a tumour was introduced, knowing it was likely to be attacked by other birds, while a rare parrot was stolen. Meanwhile, finches were housed with aggressive parrots, putting them at risk of injury and death.

The aviary's structural security is an ongoing concern. Recently, rats killed 16 finches, 3 budgies, and 1 cockatiel—an outcome that only came to light after volunteers pushed for the aviary to be closed. Despite promises to repair the facility, the structure is too old and decaying to be made safe. The material used should be rat-proof, yet the aviary remains vulnerable to pests, theft, and the introduction of toxic food by the public.

The diet provided to these birds is another form of neglect. The birds are fed a monotonous seed diet, which leads to malnutrition and disease, such as fatty liver and heart disease. Because of budget constraints, food is only changed once or twice a week, increasing the risk of bacterial infections. Fresh fruits and vegetables, which are essential for their health, are rarely provided. Even healthier alternatives like pellets or grains, which are vital to their well-being, are unavailable due to financial limitations.

The council's neglect extends to healthcare, where necessary treatments are often denied. Birds with obvious health issues, such as tumours or overgrown beaks, are left to suffer because of the council's unwillingness to fund medical care. It has fallen on volunteers to step in, paying for veterinary bills out of their own pockets to save the birds from needless pain and suffering. The council has also failed to administer basic treatments, like deworming and lice control, leaving the birds vulnerable to parasites that worsen their health.

Husbandry standards are equally appalling. Bedding, which should be changed weekly to prevent disease, is often left untouched for months, leading to an unbearable buildup of faeces. Perches are rarely cleaned, and food and water dishes are often contaminated with waste, putting the birds at constant risk of infection.

The lack of enrichment for the birds is perhaps the most heartbreaking aspect of their existence. Parrots, with their high intelligence and emotional needs, should have toys, foraging opportunities, and daily human interaction. Instead, the birds receive little stimulation, their toys are purchased by volunteers, and they suffer from a lack of attention from the overburdened staff.

Ultimately, the care of these birds has fallen to one dedicated individual, who strives to maintain a semblance of quality despite the overwhelming lack of resources and support from the council. While it may be heartwarming for the public to watch these birds, the reality behind the scenes is devastating. The suffering and deaths of these innocent creatures should not be overlooked for the sake of a public spectacle. Parrots deserve better than an under-funded, deteriorating aviary, staffed by individuals who lack the training and resources to provide them with the care they desperately need.

This aviary does not meet the basic standards outlined by the RSPCA's Five Welfare Needs, leaving the birds to endure lives filled with pain, isolation, and neglect:

1. A suitable place to live that is secure and clean.
2. A healthy diet with fresh, clean, and appropriate food and water.
3. The ability to behave normally, with adequate enrichment.
4. The company they need, given the inappropriate mixing of species and the abandonment of solitary birds.
5. To stay healthy with regular health checks, veterinary treatment, good husbandry, and diet.

The birds at this aviary are not just numbers; they are sentient beings deserving of care, respect, and the chance to live a fulfilling life. Instead, they are left to suffer in silence, trapped in a system that fails them at every turn.