Saying goodbye to my little birdie buddy.
Twenty years ago we brought home a little bird with a big attitude. A grey cockatiel we named Cracker Jack – CJ for short – because of that attitude. He loved getting his head scratched – would sit quietly enjoying every scratch. But never allowed anyone to touch him beyond his head. He’d quickly take a plug of skin out of your finger if you dared.
His favorite thing was looking at written words. My children were young when we got CJ. Early the next morning after we got him, I heard him singing away. I walk into the room to find my youngest daughter sitting next to his cage, reading him a story. She was holding the book so he could see each page as she read – and he was singing and talking gibberish back to her for the entire book. He was a well read bird until the day he passed.
He could whistle a bit, he would give kisses when asked for them, and his little beak punched probably a million holes in papers around the house over the years.
CJ May 2018
Over the past few years, CJ suffered from separation anxiety. He HAD TO be right next to one of us, unless he was ‘in bed’ (cage covered up at night). If he wasn’t right next to one of us – he would scream (and scream, and scream, and scream). Though it wasn’t always easy, I understood his anxiety about separation. Birds such as CJ (a cockatiel) are flock animals. They are not solitary animals and it is their nature to call to their flock when separated. We were CJ’s flock…and he was adamant about calling to us if we were more than arms reach away.
So…over the past 5 or so years, CJ sat with me every single day- right at my desk. He’s probably read every single page of the AAFCO rule book (I’d show him the pages and many of those pages have holes in them). If you’ve ever talked to me on the phone – you ‘met’ CJ and heard his commentary. If you’ve ever watched a TruthaboutPetFood.com video with my voice in it…you’ve heard CJ in the background. He had a sixth sense to know when I was recording something…he wanted his two cents worth in there. He had to be removed from my room when I used to be on AAFCO meeting calls – everyone on the call could hear his commentary and it tended to be distracting (to them, not me).
This past Monday afternoon I left the house for a trip to a pet food trade show – I told CJ bye, see you in two days. That night, while I was at dinner with friends – my daughter called me with the news. CJ was in bed, and she briefly heard him thrash in the cage. She went to check on him, and found him at the bottom of his cage. He was gone. It was quick, which was a blessing. But I sure wish I would have been here to tell him good-bye.
The next morning – in my hotel room a thousand miles from home – I heard CJ’s scream as plain as day. He was telling me he’s ok…he’s with all the others we’ve lost over the years. And I know he was telling me he’d be one more in the army to help us fight to protect pets. (He’s read the AAFCO book multiple times, I KNOW he can be of assistance to us!)
The house is certainly very quiet without him. Miss you little birdie buddy.
Susan and family.
Hope
June 28, 2018 at 4:14 pm
Beautiful testimony to CJ. Blessings on him and you for the love you shared and that you continue to send each other.
Ian
June 28, 2018 at 4:15 pm
Dear Susan, I’m sorry for your loss. Sounds like he had a great home with your flock.
Kt
June 28, 2018 at 4:26 pm
My condolences, Susan. CJ sounds like quite a character and, after 20 years of living with you, I know you miss him dearly
Strachan Pindar
June 28, 2018 at 4:36 pm
What a beautiful tribute to your beloved CJ. What a charmer he was! My heart is with you. So very sorry for your loss.
soozyb2013
June 28, 2018 at 4:49 pm
Aww what a lovely write up for CJ. I have had two Cockatiels in my life, “Woody” and “Rocky”, both were great friends of mine. They would strut around the house and I got Woody to sing the Oscar Mayer wiener song 🙂
CJ made it till 20, wow, good on you Susan. His long and happy life is a great reflection on his guardian 🙂 Sorry that you were not there tho’ but he knows. Hugs from Victoria, BC
Debbie Binder
June 28, 2018 at 4:50 pm
Even 20 years is not long enough, is it. Beautiful story, thank you for sharing. I am glad it was quick for CJ and that your daughter didn’t see him suffer
Cathy Tucker
June 28, 2018 at 5:10 pm
Susan, I am truly sorry to learn of your loss of CJ. I had a smooth Collie named Cracker Jack as well so I can relate.
I am sure that CJ didn’t want you there when he went to the bridge. He knew you so well that he knew how hard it would be on both of you. I have always said that my furkids were borrowed angels. They could only stay with us until they were called because they were borrowed by us. Just know that CJ is well cared for once again by another who needed his love and his antics. You and he will be in my prayers. Thank you for having a heart big enough to help all of us.
Brenda Rion
June 28, 2018 at 5:20 pm
I’m sorry that it was time for CJ to join your other departed friends but am glad he did let you know he had arrived just fine. Cockatiels do have a way of working themselves into our hearts. Hugs.
Wanda
June 28, 2018 at 5:20 pm
I am truly sorry for the loss of your baby and friend.Cj
Charles Maglaughlin
June 28, 2018 at 5:22 pm
I love my kids. I have fed 19 feral cats twice a day,(for 7 years) and have 2 talking parrots. I’m appalled by what I’ve learned about what is allowed and more often than not is put in dog and cat food.(dead dogs, cats, chickens with cancer and tumors, and cows with maggots.) I cook chicken in my slow cooker for my cats…no bones, skin or ugly stuff. I believe in TNR-Trap, neuter, release. All expense is out of my own pocket…$300 a month. My cockatoo, whom I’ve had for 30 years, during a late night cupboard search for something to eat, cried out, “What are you doing, good boy”? I replied, “I’m getting something to eat, do you want some”? There was a pause, and she moaned, “Let’s go to sleep, OK”?!
Shirley
June 28, 2018 at 5:28 pm
20. years is a good life time for a cockatiel. I lost my first one, a grey hen at the age of 18, and I cried and cried. She is buried in a special place in my back yard, near the trees. My second one is now approaching 23! I feed her Harrisons’ organic bird food. What would you recommend feeding these birds?. My bird also loves cooked Quinoa, carrots, and cabbage.
They are certainly good buddies. They practically live on your shoulders, eat, drink, nap. Perfect pet for some people, but not all Too many irresponsible people.
Edie Chase
June 28, 2018 at 5:37 pm
I’m sorry for your loss. Birds have so much personality. Sending comforting thoughts to you and your family.
Nora
June 28, 2018 at 5:39 pm
So sorry to hear about your beautiful little feathered friend. I’m sure you’ll hear his screaming at the rainbow bridge. Nora
Janet B
June 28, 2018 at 5:39 pm
I’m sorry to learn of the loss of CJ. It sounds like he was a special little bird.
Barbara McLaughlin
June 28, 2018 at 5:48 pm
I second the comments already made to you. I am shedding a few tears at your loss. We animal lovers all know how painful it is to lose our babies. You were lucky and so was CJ. My condolences.
Batzion
June 28, 2018 at 5:48 pm
What a magnificent assistant you were in your efforts to help Susan protect the animals, CJ! You had a stellar career, but most importantly, you were a loyal and stedfast member of your flock. It saddens me to learn that you took to your wings, but it is comforting to know that you are free from all earthly encumbrances at the Rainbow Bridge. We miss you even though we didn’t know you. Rest in peace, little CJ. Sending you and your family a hug, Susan.
Mary Sue
June 28, 2018 at 5:49 pm
So sorry. What a character.
Becky Rao
June 28, 2018 at 5:59 pm
so very sorry for your loss. RIP CJ
Desiree
June 28, 2018 at 6:05 pm
I’m so sorry to hear about the loss of CJ ♥
Diane
June 28, 2018 at 6:11 pm
20 years! —how do you ever get over a loss like that? CJ had a great life with a great “mom”… I guess that knowledge is the only antidote for the pain. Best wishes to you, Susan.
Diane
Charis
June 28, 2018 at 6:16 pm
The only bad day with our pets is the day they leave us. Rest In Peace CJ.
Cathy McCarron
June 28, 2018 at 6:19 pm
I’m sorry for your loss. I heard my husband’s voice when he passed. I’ve also lost two ‘tiels and miss their vocals. You didn’t imagine it. Thank you for all you do
anne
June 28, 2018 at 6:42 pm
My deepest condolences on the loss of your companion C.J. He will live on forever in your heart and the memories of what made him so special.
landsharkinnc
June 28, 2018 at 6:43 pm
Blessings and Bright Lights to Guide and Comfort each of you during this Time of Transition©
Jane
June 28, 2018 at 6:57 pm
What a guy! It sounds like he had some strong opinions about AAFCO!
I’m so sorry for your loss, Susan – even the little ones leave big spaces when they’re gone.
Helen Seppala
June 28, 2018 at 6:58 pm
Oh, Susan, I am so very sorry for your loss. What a beautiful tribute to your CJ! He sure picked the right family for himself! RIP, little birdie buddy.
Susan
June 28, 2018 at 7:07 pm
Heartfelt support and condolences to you and your family for the loss of CJ. Your story conveys his spirit and friendship so beautifully.. what a great bird friend! May his spirit soar, and his legacy inspire and light the way.
Chris
June 28, 2018 at 7:10 pm
Rest in Peace, CJ. He looks quite handsome in the May picture.
T Allen
June 28, 2018 at 7:12 pm
Susan, I’m so sorry for your loss! Thank you for sharing a little of CJ’s story with us. With you taking such good care of him for the last 20 years, I know he’ll be waiting for you over the Rainbow Bridge! RIP little bird!
Marguerite M. Bauer
June 28, 2018 at 7:14 pm
I’m sorry about CJ. I, too, am owned by birds. It is believed that the distance between life and death for birds is very short, and I am certain you did hear CJ in your hotel room. I still feel the presence of one of my birds that passed several years ago. 20 years is a good long life for a tiel — you are to be congratulated.
Alida Margolin
June 28, 2018 at 7:19 pm
Sincere condolences, Susan… And thank you, CJ, for your help, past and future!
Linda Kelly
June 28, 2018 at 7:20 pm
I loved reading your testimony to CJ so very sweet and heart-felt; made tears come to me; so wonderful are the animals that care for us and we to them.
Sally Roberts
June 28, 2018 at 7:34 pm
So sorry for your loss- I also have had birds during my life and yes they leave a hole in your heart too when it is time to say good-bye
Rachel Setola
June 28, 2018 at 7:50 pm
I’m so sorry CJ has gone on. What a blessing he went so quickly. You wrote a beautiful tribute to him.
Patricia Podboy
June 28, 2018 at 7:51 pm
Godspeed CJ! Peace & love to you and your family, Susan.
Karen
June 28, 2018 at 8:22 pm
Awww. I know that is hard when you are at home a lot and they are with you. We had a dog that was that way and after a year, I am still lonely at home. I had not realized how much of a companion he was to me as when we got him, we had several others who were more primary to me. However, your story about CJ reminds me of Harry. You will always miss him I think, but you will see him again one day. I am sure of it. 🙂
Peg
June 28, 2018 at 8:28 pm
What a wonderful tribute to CH, Susan.
Condolences to you and you family.
How fortunate you were to have crossed paths
CH, fly with the angels in Heaven
I’m sure to hear you singing❤️
Amy Tefft
June 28, 2018 at 8:30 pm
Condolences on the loss of your companion birdie, CJ. The bigger the personality, the bigger the void. ?
Gloria
June 28, 2018 at 8:43 pm
Dear Susan and family,
I am truly sorry about the loss of your dear little feathered friend. I understand your grief, having lost my sweet parakeet, Billy, when I was 16 years old. I was so upset that I had to stay home from school that day and I still think of her, with her cute talk, how she liked to play with and tease our lizards (anoles) throw toast off the table, eat from my plate at dinnertime, and like yours, punch holes in papers. May your little buddy rest in peace and may God comfort you in your loss.
Jackie Earnshaw, CPDT-KA
June 28, 2018 at 9:03 pm
Condolences. They’re never here long enough.
Stephen Abarno
June 28, 2018 at 9:39 pm
Susan, Sorry to hear about your bird,they are family !!!
Faith Jones
June 28, 2018 at 9:45 pm
So very sorry that you lost your little helper and Buddy! I know memories of his antics will remain in your heart!❤️
Merry
June 28, 2018 at 10:11 pm
Bless you and your family through the mourning of wonderful CJ! What a great life he certainly had!
Sandra Short
June 28, 2018 at 10:24 pm
Such a heartfelt, wonderful tribute to CJ! We love all of our fur & feather babies. I once had a cockatiel named Samson- they are quite characters! Thank you for sharing with us, Susan.
Teresa Johnson
June 29, 2018 at 12:17 am
For many years we in the Hedgehog community shared a sentiment, origin unknown but possibly from a Native American tradition :
Do not mourn because it is over, rather rejoice that it was.
Fly sweet CJ and find your new journey at the Rainbow Bridge. Knew that in the fullness of time those you live and who love you will meet again, and remember and love.
Sonja Saavedra
June 29, 2018 at 4:38 am
What a wonderful tribute to CJ and the love and wonderful life you shared. Thank you for all you do.
Gary Hollis
June 29, 2018 at 7:29 am
Susan, so sorry for your loss. My heart is full of sadness for you and your family. Losing a family member is the hardest thing. I know you will see C.J. again one day! Peace be with you and your family..
Leslie Kuhn
June 29, 2018 at 10:18 am
I am so sorry for your loss , CJ sounds like an amazing flock member .
Karina Huising
June 29, 2018 at 12:46 pm
Such beautiful words to describe CJ and his life with you; I’ m so sorry for his passing. He certainly was well-loved and loving of you and your family.
Terri Christenson Janson
June 29, 2018 at 1:30 pm
So sorry Susan. I’ve had a couple of Cockatiels and they are such fun. CJ sounds like he was as well. Please accept my sincere condolences.
Claire
June 29, 2018 at 2:45 pm
Beautiful loving memories….my wish for you. xo
Maxine Schmidt
June 29, 2018 at 3:08 pm
I know he is and will be missed. Sorry about his passing.
Janice
June 30, 2018 at 9:37 am
“I am not there, I did not die; Do not stand by my ashes and cry. I am the soft stars that shine at night; Of quiet birds in circled flight. I am the swift uplifting rush, when you awaken in the morning hush . . .” God bless you and your family. (Excerpt from an American Indian prayer)
Andi
June 30, 2018 at 4:57 pm
So very sorry for your loss. He was a beautiful little guy.
chuck linker
July 1, 2018 at 3:24 am
ADD MY SADNESS FOR YOUR LOSS. TIME HEALS. YOUR FAITHFUL FRIENDS ONLINE COUNT ON YOUR EMAILS MORE THAN YOUMAY REALIZE. CONTINUE.
pamroussell
July 1, 2018 at 8:37 pm
So very sorry Susan! It’s heartbreaking to lose a pet. Now he is flying high and free again!
E.S.
July 3, 2018 at 4:01 pm
I’m sorry for your loss.
Rebecca Scheer
August 15, 2018 at 10:13 am
Dear Susan, I have been rereading many of your emails and discovered I had missed this one. What a touching tribute to your “feathered” family member. So glad CJ belonged to you and your family. I’m sure he had a great life and all were blessed by him as well!
Alice Sievert
August 29, 2018 at 4:53 pm
I’m so sorry for your loss. What a sweet tribute to CJ.
Katie Asling
August 13, 2019 at 5:07 pm
Such a beautiful story. Bless you Susan, for making such a wonderful life for CJ. If only we could all leave together…
Elizabeth Guerrero
February 7, 2020 at 12:11 am
I am sorry for your loss Susan. I know how you feel. I lost my boy Yackie at 31 years old. Sniff sniff