Long time supporter, Rosemary Low explains why she loves the Think Parrots event…

Think Parrots is a totally unique event. It is all about Parrots and people and socialisation of both. Staged in a well-lit, spacious and attractive venue, there is no buying and selling of birds, and this sets it apart from all other bird-keeping events in the UK. 

You will find numerous Parrot species, staged in aviaries to show visitors the range and beauty of those available. There are also Parrots accompanying their owners for this special event.

For me personally, whilst being an opportunity to sell or just discuss my books, I am delighted to meet so many people who are there just because they love Parrots. I am fascinated to know about the birds they keep and happy to help in answering their questions or just hear about their experiences. I am especially pleased when the same people come to say “Hello”, year after year – people who I never met in any other circumstances. Do come and see me!

Most visitors enjoy mingling with like-minded people, staring with interest at those with a Parrot on their shoulder, or even (last year) with one lady with two cages strapped to her back contained her companions. From lovebirds, caiques and small conures, to macaws and cockatoos, it is interesting to match the people with their pets!

Add to this the educational element of the masterclass lectures by highly knowledgeable people – veterinarians, trainers and parrot behaviourists – and the day is marked on the calendar and eagerly anticipated by all Parrot lovers lucky enough to attend.

The Masterclasses are extremely well attended, as stand-holders observe when the hall almost clears when there are speakers in the excellent lecture room!  Veterinary advice is usually on the programme – and last year the theme was first aid.

As part of the programme, you will usually find owners with their birds specially trained for free flight which is increasing in popularity. This is a real eye-opener to those who have never seen Parrots flying outside an aviary. These owners have spent many hours training their Parrots whilst fully understanding the risks, please DO NOT attempt free flying without doing your homework!

Between the talks you can spend hours perusing the stands and tables offering everything that a Parrot lover might need.

Parrot foods are found in probably a bigger array than in any one place elsewhere. Take advantage of this to discuss them with the sellers and seek advice on what is appropriate for your birds.

If you are buying seed mixtures, you can examine the contents and proportions and the cleanliness – which you cannot do when ordering on the internet. If you are not familiar with some of the contents, ask the vendor what they are.

You can also find stands devoted to a wonderful range of toys. Look at the foraging toys as these are so good for keeping parrots busy in a constructive way! Plus, cages and aviaries, bird-themed gifts, harnesses and bird art. Look carefully and you are sure to find something to delight you.

Last year I found some small stickers of different parrot species. I bought one of a Grey Parrot to attach to a card I was about to send to a friend who has six companion Greys.

In addition to goods, you will find stands offering various services: pet insurance, veterinary care and advice on parrot training.

The free show guide has a plan of the hall with the position of the tables and stands and a list of all the exhibitors, describing their products and services. It also shows where you can obtain food, indoors and outdoors. After the event I find this a useful resource to remind me of the products and services I saw.

Think Parrots was founded in 2012 by John and Val of Parrots Magazine and organised by them up until a couple of years ago.

Northern Parrots who have sponsored and supported the event since its inception, then took over organising the event.

The location is Kempton Park Racecourse which has great transport links - only 8km or about 20 minutes by car from Heathrow airport. There’s a large car parking areas and train station nearby.

It’s a thoroughly great day out for anyone keeping companion Parrots, with many people returning each year. If you’ve never been before I honestly suggest you do this year!