Education Philosophy and Goals

The Parrot Outreach Club (POC) is a student organization dedicated to the education of the public about captive parrots and their wild counter-parts. We strive to illustrate the complexities and responsibilities of parrot ownership. This includes discussion of avian anatomy, conservation, and the realities of sharing your home with a parrot.

Background Information

The POC is an organization comprised of UC Davis students and alumni who share a love of parrots. Many members have a strong background in avian science studies and research, and have lived with parrots for several years. This program started as a result of the concern for the growing number of unwanted pet parrots, and their continuing decline in the wild.

The Presentation

The POC brings live parrots into the classroom to enhance the educational experience.

K-2nd grades: The students are read a story that highlights the aspects of parrots that make them different from all other animals and birds. The entire visit lasts approximately 30 to 45 minutes. We also bring coloring pages for the students to work on after we leave.

3rd-5th grades: The students are read a story (The Great Kapok Tree or Brian's Bird) followed by a brief talk about parrot topics. The birds are introduced. Students will then participate in "Parrot Jeopardy" using information presented in the reading and talk.

6th-8th grades: coming soon, suggestions welcome

9th-12th grades: coming soon, suggestions welcome

Special Needs: The POC currently has a physically disabled parrot that will visit the students and aid the presenters in a motivational visit. The visit should last about 30 minutes.

Other Groups: We are happy to do outreaches for other groups such as 4H, after school programs, etc. Please email or call us to discuss your specific needs.

Please feel free to contact the POC to discuss the focus of your presentation. We can tailor a presentation to fit the educational goals of the teacher.

Presentation photos and coloring pages are here.

Funding

The POC incurs minimal costs for outreach planning and coordination, advertising, creating materials for students and travel to outreach destinations. We request a donation of $1 per student with a $10 minimum per outreach. All funds received go toward the direct costs of the program. Checks should be made payable to UC Regents. Donations to support the program can be made at any time. Call or email for more information.