Name:

Hagrid. He was named after a character in the "Harry Potter" series, as were his two Parakeet brothers, Albus and Faux.

Species:

Parakeet (Melopstittacus undulatus.)

Sex:

Male.

Age:

5 months.

Favorite Foods:

According to his owner, Amanda, Hagrid enjoys Honey Treat Sticks more than anything.

Favorite Toys:

Hagrid's favorite toys include a beaded mirror, a branch decorated with beads and rawhide strips, and last but not least, his swing.

Favorite Perches:

Hagrid can't fly, so when he's outside of his cage, he can usually be found roaming around on the ground. "He likes to explore" Amanda explains. "He loves to hop around the room."

Dislikes:

Being a good natured little Parakeet, Hagrid doesn't appear to have any dislikes as of yet!

Special Talents:

Hagrid was born with a slight birth defect which limits the use of his left leg. His greatest talent, says Amanda, is his ability to get around and keep up with the other birds just fine. Coupled with his gentle disposition, his strength in overcoming his disability makes him a special bird indeed.

Life With Hagrid:

Amanda found Hagrid while working as an Avian Specialist at a pet shop. His sweet disposition caught her attention right away. When she saw that he was disabled, she says, she fell for him even harder.

After spending a few days in the infirmary for observation, Amanda took Hagrid home, where he quickly established himself as part of the family.

His loving personality has stolen her heart.

"Even if he gets upset" she says, "it's just not in him to bite."

His affectionate nature, in spite of the hardships that life has thrown his way, makes Hagrid an inspiration to us all. That's why he is this week's Bird of the Week -- his strength, courage, and positive outlook should serve as a reminder to people everywhere that even the greatest hardships can be overcome if we simply have a little heart.

Do you think that your bird should be the next "Bird of the Week"? If so, email me at birds@aboutguide.com with your bird's information and a clear photo (at least 200 pixels.) He or she could be the next featured bird!