Neemal Murukes had always wanted a sun conure, a medium-sized parrot with bright and beautiful plumage.
Concerned, however, that he might not be able to provide it the best possible care, he first decided to get several cockatiels – another parrot species – to gain the necessary experience.
Four years later and now confident in his ability to look after a sun conure, Neemal contacted a breeder to buy one. And so, in July last year, Jada came into his life.
The hatchling was then only two and a half months old, and required a lot of care and attention. But the ardent bird lover was not deterred and devotedly spent time hand-feeding his new pet.
Jada has grown under his care and today has formed a special bond with Neemal.
“Jada will not allow another person to carry him,” the 32-year-old said, explaining that he is actually uncertain about the bird’s gender – without a DNA test, it cannot be accurately determined.
While Neemal is at work, Jada usually spends time playing with toys. The proud bird parent also revealed that his pet gets excited whenever he arrives back home.
“Jada will start making noise as it’s time for two things: playtime and food,” he said fondly.
The bird’s diet consists of pellets, apples, papaya, spinach, carrots, almonds, and his absolute favourite: sunflower seeds!
Neemal has also successfully trained Jada to free fly, which refers to unrestricted outdoor flight for birds that are trained to return to their owners.
He is, after all, a member of the Kuala Lumpur Free Fly Community, a group of bird lovers who meet regularly to allow their feathered friends to take to the skies freely.
Recalling Jada’s first session with the group, Neemal shared: “There was a macaw who suddenly gave a shout and it shocked Jada, who flew to the top of a tree!”
This, of course, left Neemal shaken, but thankfully Jada eventually returned to him. “I was so happy and relieved when he did.”
Describing his emotions whenever he sees Jada in the sky, he told FMT: “I feel so happy. I never thought I could successfully train a bird to free fly, and the feeling when Jada returns to me is very satisfying.”
Neemal also describes his pet as a fast learner who has mastered several tricks. “For example, when I say ‘kiss’, he gives me one on the lips,” he revealed with a laugh.
Jada also responds to commands such as “turn around” and “wave” – to which the bird will lift his feet in an adorable gesture of greeting!
For Neemal, Jada has brought happiness to his life. “I enjoy playing with him whenever I feel stressed. When I see how affectionate Jada is with me, I feel calmer.
“Jada is a special friend to me,” he concluded.
Are you a fan of free-flying feathered friends? Read more stories here and here.
TELL US ABOUT YOUR PET: FMT Lifestyle readers are invited to send in pictures (landscape format) and a short video (if any) of their furry, scaly or feathery friends to [email protected]. Don’t forget to include details like your pet’s name, age, breed and a short story about them.