Bridgette, like many Amazons, is a big talker (especially when she thinks no one is around). Some of Bridgette’s vocalisms include: “I love you,” “kiss me,” and “baby.” She also loves to hang upside down in her cage, playfully asking "where's my girl?" and "where's my pretty baby?" She sings opera in her beautiful voice and does not need much encouragement. Her favorite toys are made of wood and she loves to have a bell in her cage.
She came from a longtime home, but when she appeared to have medical problems, her family gave her to the Refuge. Since then, all medical problems have abated and Bridgette is a healthy, robust girl. She was born in April 1993 and may be a little cage defensive at times. Like most Amazons, she chooses her own people and is quite particular and possessive once she does select you.
Update from Bridgette's foster mom - December 4, 2007: Bridgette is so very happy. She's eating, singing and talking up a storm. She's very jealous of my daughter and husband and protective of me when they come near. She can't be out when they are in the room as she gave me a womping bite while I was holding her and my husband approached. But she will allow him to feed her through the cage... so there is some hope. She's snuggling and even a bit sexual - oye - but happy. She's sitting on a stand next to me right now listening to opera.
Update - January 10, 2008: For all the volunteers who have known Bridgette as the "evil one" or "terrorist" you will be hard pressed and perhaps relieved to know that in a home situation, with her chosen person, she is absolutely lovely and loving. She loves to snuggle with me during our private times, and will kiss and preen my hands and face. I absolutely trust her that she will not inflict pain unless she feels our space is threatened by someone else - and she is improving with that. She loves to sing and vocalizes more than any of my other birds. She will chip right into conversations with her babble and mostly just loves to sing. When she wants to come out her cage she will say "want to come out?". She adores me and I adore her in return. I never would have thought an Amazon could be so loving.
Update - January 31, 2008: Bridgette is getting better with my husband and daughter and has calmed down her jealous nature around them. She is especially lovey and loves to snuggle when we are alone. She isn't one bit fazed by the other flock birds and often Leona (timneh) will retreat to Bridgette for defense against Zulu's affection. She'll usally say "Oh no!" when this happens.
Update - 4/12/2008 Bridgette is very, very happy in our home. She eats a tremendous amount of healthy food - would you believe lettuce among other things? She loves to sit with me at all times, and will even share me with other birds without any jealousy. When she is with me she shows no fear toward others and has improved tremendously towards men and Sophie. She is still fearful of other strange small children (like you) and I take great precautions when Sophie's friends visit, and still with Sophie when Bridgette is territorial. For the most part she has let go of her fears of Sophie, and Sophie loves her and can get her to sing opera. You can see a warmth is returning to Bridgette's heart - that was previously filled with broken disappointments. The last thing I want is to be another disappointment in her life. I love her dearly, and we share a special bond.