CLEVELAND (WOIO/Gray News) – An Ohio woman is fighting to reunite with her beloved parrot of 10 years after she says her father gave the bird away while she was hospitalized.
Nora Melton, known online as Nora the Explorer, says her Eclectus parrot, Simon, has been her constant companion and even the mascot for her business for years. She describes a deep emotional bond with Simon, whom she received as a gift in 2017, WOIO reports.
After a recent difficult breakup that left her feeling overwhelmed, Melton stayed with her parents. She sought help at a hospital following an argument with her family, recognizing a need to focus on her mental health.
Upon her release, Melton discovered three of her exotic pets had been rehomed – and Simon was missing.
She claims she later learned from another relative that someone had taken her parrot to the Cleveland Animal Protective League and allegedly told them his owner had died. She went to the animal shelter last Wednesday, only to find that Simon had already been transferred to Parrot Hope Rescue in Mantua, Ohio.
Melton says her attempts to contact the rescue have been largely unsuccessful, receiving only a text message stating that the bird had been rehomed and there was nothing she could do.
The Cleveland APL confirmed to WOIO that Simon was surrendered by an individual who claimed his owner was deceased and who signed legal documents asserting authority over the alleged deceased owner.
Parrot Hope Rescue also responded to WOIO, stating they considered Simon abandoned and had placed him with a loving family, adding they could not entertain claims of prior ownership.
Despite this, Melton is pleading for Simon’s return, expressing fear that her decision to prioritize her well-being has led to a permanent separation from her cherished companion.
“He is more to me than anything and anyone right now,” Melton said. “If I don’t get him back, I don’t know how to feel.”
She is hoping the rescue will reconsider their decision and allow for a reunion.
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