My Toucan Rocko's Necropsy Results SHOCKED Me 😳😡😢

[@sarahbottomley3941]

I'm a human med lab tech. It's incredible hearing you be so open and vulnerable about what you and Rocco went through. This disease is genetic in humans as well, and it sounds like it plays out in a very similar way. One thing I wanted to say is don't beat yourself up for not finding an answer sooner. I can't speak for birds, but in humans, we can sustain quite high levels of organ damage with hereditary hemochromatosis before showing any symptoms at all. I've seen patients with ferratin (storage iron for humans) levels that were so high the analyzer I use couldn't even get a measurement... and the patients only started showing symptoms at those levels. This is not your fault. You do everything for your birds. You had no way to know this was happening. Thank you for all of the work you put in. The internet is blessed to have you.

[@vysharra]

This. And it’s further exacerbated by bird behavior. I was warned when I rescued my first bird to not blame myself if they suddenly die. Because most birds won’t show anything is wrong until they are dying/dead. I only have cockatiels left but they’re over 20 so each morning I brace a little, telling myself I did my best.

[@RLaraMoore]

If in humans, how does one know? And what can one do?

[@70Harper]

My dad has hemachromatosis and he wasn’t aware until he donated blood, which he had done before. It ended up effecting his heart and now has to have regularly scheduled blood letting if his iron gets too high. I’m so sorry Rocko had this too.

[@laurenloggins826]

we love a med tech ❤️

[@suedeffler5626]

I cried as much as you did over Rocco. I lost a 37 year old Blue Crown conure because of feeding issues that was my Fault. I'll never get over it.

[@tinydinoflock]

Man I wish I could give you a hug. It’s so hard when the best advice out there still isn’t perfect. You gave Rocko the best life anyone could have ❤️

[@rmarvel169]

Absolutely! Any birb that's had the pleasure of owning this family is the one of the luckiest ever ! ❤️

[@pasplatt116]

Please don't hate yourself for this. You did what you thought was right for Rocko. We all saw that! The love that you have for all of your birds is very evident. The compassion you have for all creatures, including humans, can be seen in everything you do. I hope you find peace in knowing he is no longer in pain and his love for you is endless. I somehow have to pull myself together to go to work and make it through the day. Sending you light, love, and warm thoughts.

[@BirdTricks]

🥰

[@jenniferrush8231]

I remember learning about this in my internship. It surprised me. I was told that it was pretty impossible to avoid in captivity because nothing we feed them is anything close to what they would eat in the wild. We used the same pellets as you mentioned as well. But also many fruits. The really bizarre thing I learned as well was that depending on how the fresh foods are processed affected the availability of iron. Example freezing fruits can increase the availability of iron, so fresh of frozen was very important as well as high water content foods. Overall their take was that Toucans lifespans are dramatically reduced in captivity no matter how you care for them. No matter how much love we give them. It’s the opposite of what happens with most animals. Houdini was the light of my day, every day I worked. Even on the days he would whack me on my head while I stand o. The ladder to fill his food and water bowls. Lol I am sorry for your loss. I am so grateful for your training and the advice you give. I know it has changed many birds lives for the better. Many peoples as well❤️

[@zebraloverbridget]

I wonder if there's some food they eat in the wild that allows them to more easily deal with iron but we just haven't been able to determine it. Either that or it is a hereditary issue as some other comments mention the possibility of. I don't know if we're still getting in new genes via wild populations or not, but if capturing wild birds is not allowed anymore then I can see it being a genetic issue.

[@skskees]

I believe the answer to the iron storage disease is simple. Toucans should not live in captivity. The diet that is natural to them cannot be reproduced in captivity.

[@rosebudadkins6803]

I am First Nation, we believe animals are our teachers. You learn well. Creator gave us many wonderful animal as. The winged ones are closest to him. As they fly high in sky. I could not live in a world without them. Walking the path of grief with you! Hugs! ❤️

[@havennott7384]

I believe him and Bandit have alot of catching up to do, hes definitely up there telling him about How you, Dave and Capri miss him and how much yall have grown as a family, they are both close to your hearts no matter where you are or go, RIP Rocco, the best fruit loop anyone could ever have met

[@BirdTricks]

Love this! ❤️

[@whyisthisachannel]

I'm so sorry for your loss. I've never been to your channel before, I'm not sure why youtube recommended this, other than maybe I can offer an emotional support and sympathy for a similar situation. I lost my heart-dog in 2017. It's been five years, and I'm not over it. Most days I remember him with a laugh, with fondness. Some days I still break down crying because all I want in the world is to come home and have him there. He saved my life in more ways than one. I learned about who I wanted to be as a person because I had to learn how to take care of him. I learned how to be more patient, more kind. I healed from a traumatic childhood with his help. His entire mission in life was to protect me. In 2016/2017 - my mental health got really bad. Undiagnosed and untreated cptsd and ocd nearly took me out. I was at a point in my life where I was holding on just for him - I promised him that I would hold on as long as he was alive, that I would never leave him to be alone without me. He's the one who held on. He held on long enough for me to get treatment - and then he got sick. He wasn't young, he wasn't old. We had a dozen years, but I'd expected more. I'd expected to lose him to old age. I didn't expect to have my vet sit down and tell me that he had cancer. It was a miracle that I caught it, he said. That I was persistent enough to insist that something needed to be looked at. It was nearly impossible to catch at the stage that I did. Unfortunately ... it wasn't enough. He had cancer in a way that my vet told me was a one in a million shot, and he'd never seen it before himself. It would not be survivable. I remember sitting in silence, not understanding the words I'd just heard. I'd done everything right to prevent this. It should have been impossible for him to have this. But he did. I hit amazing odds and won the worst lottery in the world. My dog comforted me as I sat in shock, put his head on my knee and looked at me like, "It's okay. It's okay, we're okay. I'm here, you're here, that's all we need." I was - i am devastated. There was never anything I could have done to have change what happened - because during his life we did everything you were supposed to to stop this from happening. Sometimes I'm angry, because what a cruel joke. The biggest comfort to me in his final months, once we found out that something was wrong, once I was told how much time I might have left ... My biggest comfort is knowing that I did everything I did for him. I was so afraid that I wouldnt know when it was time to let go. I was so afraid that I would hold on too long, or that I wouldn't fight for him the way he fought for me. Once he was diagnosed, that was it. There was no unringing the bell, I knew what was happening and I was so scared that I would be selfish when he needed me. That's not what happened. I knew the day that he told me he was done, it was over. I kept every single day before that to make sure he had a good day. We did treatment for as long as he was having a good life. Every choice I made was for him and his sake, and that comforts me. He was loved every second he was in my life - and that continues in the years that he's been gone. I know how it feels to be told your animal is going to pass from something they shouldnt. That you've literally taken every step that should have made it impossible. From what I've seen in this video ... I think I can assume you loved your rocko with your whole heart. It's obvious from every second here. And I think I can assume you loved him every day he was with you. When you lose an animal to something that you shouldnt ... for me that was the best way to cope with it. Knowing how much I loved my boy - and knowing how many other people loved him. The grief comes in waves, and some days it was easier to laugh at something absurd he had done, and some days I cried about it. I've heard people liken it to a button and a ball in a box. You can't see the box, so you never know when the ball is going to collide with the button. And when grief is fresh, the ball is huge. It hits that button nonstop. Over time, the ball shrinks, but it never really goes away. And you never know when it will hit that button - but it does get smaller. You have more good days, you have more time to laugh, and to appreciate.

[@talascam]

I think when you take on the responsibility to teach, the good and the bad needs to be shared. Anything that helps someone else is all a teacher can do. Well done.

[@lindafore9793]

I love you for sharing this precious time with us and I pray that soon the pain will subside and the shadows of loss will disappear and all you have left are the love you experienced through him and all the bright, happy memories you two built together. We all do our best to love and care for our "kids", the most important being love. Rocco knew you love him

[@KKIcons]

From a fellow teacher, thanks.

[@bkm2797]

I'm so sorry Rocco couldn't stay, and it's so hard to understand how it could be iron storage when you did everything to prevent it. Thanks to you, Dave and Capri, Rocco had the best human family he could have hoped for. You will see him again, so try to think of all the good years you shared. Jamie, we appreciate you letting us know what you have learned, this could not have been easy.

[@BirdTricks]

Thank you ❤️

[@alexia3552]

It's so clear that you took every step you could think of to protect him. I remember when I came across your first video on toucans, one of the things that you said was that they are incredibly delicate, I honestly suspect he lived a longer life with you than he would have otherwise. Please don't beat yourself up, sometimes we're just not capable of knowing or doing what an animal needs. I can imagine it feels easier on some level to feel guilty about it, because it implies that you had the control to keep him alive. Sometimes seeing that life is more complex and delicate than we could have been prepared for is hard to digest.

[@possignup]

I've got double recessive hemochromatosis so I've got the worst version of the disease (from what I've understood) and I wouldn't have known about it if not for a random ferritin test with a new doctor. Normal range for humans is anywhere from 24 to 336 micrograms per liter but mine was over 4000. I've changed my diet and get one pint of blood taken every six months to keep it under control, which has been working for the past few years. I'm sure that if they didn't find it I would have ended up in the ER from a heart attack or some other organ failure because my iron was so high, the first time I had the phlebotomy it took a really long time because my blood was so thick that it was barely flowing into the collection bag, the nurses had no idea how I even functioned like that... This video really hits home for me, not just because it's about the loss of a family member, but because the same disease that Rocko has was also killing me. I don't know anyone with hemochromatosis, not even at the oncologists office have I met someone with this disease. To find, listen to and connect my story with someone else, even if that someone else is a bird, means a lot to me. I'm very sorry that Rocko's story had to end the way it did, just know that these videos are extremely important and I can't thank you enough for sharing them with us.

[@crashq8784]

Haemochromatosis can be incredibly stealthy, even in humans, until an affect shows up (like diabetes etc) and is an inherited disease (in humans). You did every single thing you could to prevent this for Rocko but it was not possible. What you did achieve for Rocko was an incredibly warm and happy life with much, much love. Take some comfort in the wonderful community you have built through your work and that you have made life better for innumerable companion birds all over the world.

[@kristineteall368]

Hemocromatosis runs in my family, I am a carrier. I think this is a good point, and something that should be researched. Unfortunately, treatment means removing blood from the body, which I don't think in a bird is possible. Diet can work in some people, but not all, and the medications didn't work. I think the takeaway is if it was hereditary, there isn't nothing that could have been done besides giving him the best life ever, which he was truly given. ❤

[@lisasidebotham5004]

Beautufully said. ❤️

[@70Harper]

@@kristineteall368 yes my dad has it and I am a carrier. He’s got it under control now but it did affect his heart. He only has to have his blood removed so often. It used to be on a schedule.

[@trishawaddell564]

@@70Harper , my Dad had it too. And then diabetes as well. He was on a schedule for removing blood and then finally just needed his levels monitored and removed occasionally. But out of the blue he developed kidney issues last year and he had to be hospitalized. They sent him to get dialysis for the first time and he passed away. He had a do not resuscitate order so no life saving measures were taken when his vitals crashed. I believe the hemochromatosis had damaged his heart and kidneys and I know he had some damage to his liver as well. He was doing very well though and had been fairly healthy, only being treated for diabetes and high blood pressure and was on a kidney diet prior to this hospital visit and his death. Please ask your Dad to keep a very close watch on his symptoms and keep his Dr’s away of any changes. Hemochromatosis can be a very insidious disease and I know it is what caused my 73 yr old Dad to die suddenly.

[@kathyweaver3251]

Remember, grief has no timeline. We never know when it will hit us. It's ok to cry & miss our pets! They get us when no one else does. Blessings to you and your family.❤

[@lindafore9793]

Absolute truth. ❤️🙏

[@ocean_sapphire]

My heart goes out to you and your family as you continue to struggle with Rocko's loss. Despite the necropsy results, you did everything you could to ensure that he had the best & healthiest life possible. As an ornithologist of over 20 years, I truly believe toucans should not be domesticated because so little is known about them. I hope you find peace and happiness in the coming days.

[@nataliegraham9552]

I can only imagine the incredulous, disbelieving reaction you and Dave must have had to the necropsy results. You were so careful and nurturing of Rocko. It gives me comfort to know that the outpouring of support you've gotten for the loss of your feathered family member continues to lift you up; it is a difficult journey and each person has to walk their own path of recovery. Take gentle and loving care of yourself and your beautiful family, human and avian; it will be the best tribute to Rocko and Bandit both. 'Every day is a gift; tomorrow is never guaranteed.' 💛🌈💛

[@cherylmarcham9710]

I’m so incredibly sorry and I realize that my words are so small compared to your giant loss. There are many arms around you holding you tight ❤️. Loved that poem

[@claiyageil]

I'm not a cryer but damn... when I first learned of this and watched every video of his updates I cried. I know we can all relate to that special unique bond that you can only have with birds. How it rips a part of our soul out immediately when we lose them. I thought I could get through this video without crying because enough time had past.... how very wrong I was. With how much you have given us, I know a lot of us would give up something without hesitation so you can come home and cuddle with your Rocko again. To what it's worth, your very existence is so important to us and our feathered soul mates. I believe in you and everything you do. May happy memories of him heal the wound on your soul. We love you Jamieleigh!

[@slaphappysmokey1]

You just brought on more water works!

[@jamesburton-carter6093]

The poem rings so true. When my late mum died back in November of 2018 a week after her funeral in December I felt her presence as she called her elderly pug to "come home" & that's how I found him peacefully asleep painfree xx

[@daniellegrubham2507]

Jamie, my heart goes out to you and your family during this time of mourning! I just recently found Birdtricks and all your KZbin videos about 3 months ago. Know that you have helped my family and our feathered babies for the best! You saved our relationship with our first bird and have gave us the tools needed to be a happy, healthy, loving bird home! We couldn’t have done this with out you! I can’t thank you enough for all you have done for our family!!! Sending all our love to you during this time!

[@BirdTricks]

Thank you! Hearing your success with your birds helps more than you can imagine! ❤️

[@Namoraslife]

It's so hard to lose a loved one. Take your time, grief will never go away, but it'll become easier. Take your time and process everything. I'm so scared of the day where I need to let my birbs go, sending you big hugs, you're awesome and strong and did everything you could to care for all your birdies and ours as best as you can!

[@dino_chicken8739]

This channel changed my birds lifestyle so much, I even rescued 3 more and they are all thriving beautifully because of them! I spread the message I've learned from this channel and because of that 2 other birds are in a wonderful home and gets such good care! These people are changing birds life through the message that they're spreading.

[@robbiefromabq2400]

How incredibly beautiful. You were blessed to have Rocko and Rocko was so blessed to have you as his Momma! ❤️🌺

[@Stephanie_Vincent]

I'm so sorry for your loss. He was beautiful.

[@highwaystar1021]

Jamie, I'm so sorry for the loss of your Rocco. I'm literally crying as I write this 😭. I know exactly what you're going through. I lost my Macaw of 32 years a little over a year ago and it still hurts. It does get a little easier over time.

[@sarahmay144]

Man I need to stop watching these videos while I’m at work.. thank you guys for everything you do and sharing all the ups and downs of your journey. You are making a huge difference for the lives of birds and owners, even when it doesn’t seem like it.

[@Sheepdog1314]

they let you watch KZbin while working?

[@sarahmay144]

@@Sheepdog1314 I listen with headphones. Which we are allowed

[@chriscarnes87]

Jamie, you are the reason we will never forget any of your birds. With all your knowledge, passion,love and care, you are the best owner a bird could ever have.

[@LuckyCharm713]

We are all crying right along with you. Helping Rocko pass peacefully was the hard choice, the selfless choice, the right choice. He passed knowing he was loved and part of a family and so many will never know that feeling. Your bravery during this difficult time is nothing short of heroic. And your daughter's kindness and sensitivity helped to soothe my heart. I am so very sorry for your loss and I'm sending you all a virtual hug. I bet heaven has some beautiful jungles. Fly high sweet Rocko. Fly high.

[@treasuretrovel3816]

The powder coated aviaries would be expected to "shed" iron from corroded spots even microscopic corrosion, If he was licking water off the cage bars that might have been a source. I assume that toucans don't really chew on cage bars. Thanks for posting this information even though is is still so sad and raw for you to discuss. Sorry for your loss.

[@Spicycow94]

Iron bowls could play a role

[@leanderroos]

Your love for Rocko is so beautiful♥️ Rocko’s flying around your heart for ever!

[@TheTwistty1]

I can relate to the pain you are feeling losing Rocko. I lost my mother and my little Charlie both last year and I couldn’t function. Charlie was with me everyday when I was dealing with my mothers death. For such small creatures they take up a huge amount of your heart, and when they’re gone it’s so hard to fill that space. Stay strong you’re not alone.

[@kimcat7320]

My heart goes out to you Jamie. You did everything you could with the information you had.

[@tihannabear]

I'm beyond late to this but have found myself in love with your channel for months now but just came upon this video. Tears absolutely streaming down my face. I said goodbye to my Rottweiler in 2019 and while we've said goodbye to other pets I loved just as much, my Rotti was ALL I had when I had NOTHING at all. She saved me. I felt this.

[@dogeyboy2990]

We had a funeral for a kid in our Ward today, it was really rough. It is hard to lose people and animals we love, but we will see them in the next life. Thank you Jamie for everything!

[@ophelia9604]

Just thinking about seeing my little bird in my next life ... Makes me deep within the happiest.

[@Camilla.x]

Sweet sweet Rocko❤️ It was so hard to watch this video, so hard to see you so sad. Wish I could give you a hug. Rockos soul beats in your heart❤️✨

[@donnabellelee4703]

I am a momma bird myself with about 40 bird babies. I don't get to watch your channel a lot but when I do, I am amazed at what you do for your babies. I saw Rocko and cried when he passed. I know the feeling of losing a loved bird. I am crying again now watching you & hearing all the lovely people who reached out. Stay happy. You are the best momma bird ever!!!

[@wendycottingham8011]

Jamie my heart goes out to you!! I hope Rockos journey may help other toucans held in captivity. I actually hope maybe it will stop the pet trade of these beautiful birds. As horrible as it is I know when something good can come out of loss it can leave a legacy for that sweet soul. ❤💛🖤

[@blt4239]

I love the way you love your birds. My condolences for Rocko’s passing. It’s never easy to lose something you love.

[@quixotic.whisper]

I’m so sorry that he got it…He was my favourite of the whole flock and I am still grieving, but I cannot imagine how you are feeling. He’s probably up there right now looking down and smiling at you and your family. Please stay strong❤️ there’s a quote I love… ‘don’t cry because it’s over… smile because it happened’ if you feel grief surrounding you like a blanket again, then remind yourself of the memories you shared with the most amazing toucan ever and that he wouldn’t want you to be sad. I also want to thank you for giving him the best possible life, he was happy with you and that’s all that matters

[@slaphappysmokey1]

We helicopter parent our birds because we want the best for them. We take them in, love them, care for them, and in return, they love us back, bring us smiles and grief. We keep learning more and more about the bird world, and your baby has helped the community learn more. This also includes the wonderful toucans from 2can TV. We also have special filters on our faucets for our birds and dog, too. They drink what we drink. :) They eat the healthy stuff we eat (with those exceptions). Thank you for letting us share your grief. I'm sure many of us teared up and cried hearing the report. The poetry alone broke me.

[@danilounsbury18]

I am so sorry for your loss. Losing an animal is incredibly painful and leaves us feeling empty inside, like a piece of our hearts are missing. I had to put my kitty Prudence down in March and the grief has been immense. I miss her so much everyday. The grief will lessen in time. Stay strong.

[@catherinelynnfraser2001]

Thank you for sharing your love and your grief and this heartbreaking story. That was hard to hear but so necessary. You have done all you can and shared all you could.

[@karenpaxton]

We are all here shedding tears with you, for you and for all our own losses. That poem is beautiful and hits the mark exactly. Much love you guys. Move through each day as it comes. xxx

[@staceydailey6394]

Crying with you my dear! I'm just shaking my head, why, how, everyone knows you did everything in your power to prevent this iron disease, it just doesn't add up. I'm so sorry! It's not fair. My heart aches for you. Some birds leave an empty hole in us when they depart. My first bird was Willie, a parakeet when I was 3, he left when I was 12. I'm 46 now and can start crying over him still. I have 22 birds right now from parrots to chickens. Each one different and amazing. Sending you love and wings!

[@paran315]

I can really see how much you loved Rocko. 2011, a decade is a long time, I can't imagine the heartbreak. It is nice to know so many people are helping you go through grief. Lovely poem at the end.

[@1290afineyear]

What a beautiful bird. It was easy to see how happy you made him. I'm sure he knew you loved him and that the feeling was mutual. Prayers for you and your family.

[@willsmom93]

I am crying with you over the loss of this handsome little fella.

[@allidavs661]

Oh my heart 💔 I'm balling my eyes out right now. We all loved Rocko so much. I dread the day I lose a flock member, one of my family...I don't know if I'd be able to handle it. That poem at the end was just perfect, it was like a warm hug wrapped up in beautiful words.

[@Kelsey-Lilly-White]

Thank you for sharing your grief Jamie. To know you’re not alone in these emotions (especially after being told “it’s just a pet”) is truly a blessing. I sat on my own crying along with you and as much as it hurt, there was a certain element of comfort knowing you’re not being judged for feelings. Thank you for sharing those comments and that lovely poem. Thank you for putting your self out here to world and being venerable. Thank you for everything ❤️

[@Kelsey-Lilly-White]

@@bjornmaxson3597 no

[@Kelsey-Lilly-White]

@@bjornmaxson3597 nothing that concerns u

[@elisemiller13]

Continuing to experience much loss in the human department....I feel for you Jamie Leigh. May you all find comfort in the love of your family, friends & Birdtricks community. Rocko knows that he has been loved

[@kimcareri3949]

OMG I sobbed right along with you! Your love is palpable and he will always love you and be with you. His spirit is soaring now but just a thought away. God Bless you and your family.

[@joycetheobald1717]

I'm so sorry for the loss of Rocko. As a fellow bird lover, I really could see how dearly loved he was through your videos. You did the very best you could for him. Birds will always instinctively hide their symptoms, and it's usually almost always too late by then. I've lost many over the years and still cry. Hugs from Texas.💗

[@marissahibberd3183]

That’s a beautiful poem I’m very very sorry for your loss

[@jessicataggart5656]

I'm so sorry for your loss. Rocco will always be in your heart and you will forever be his mama 🙏

[@laranadesign4764]

50 seconds in and I'm already holding back tears. It is so hard to do something like this - sharing something so personal, making yourself vulnerable to the general public on KZbin, it's just WOW. Hugs for you. Necropsies are not easy to talk about when it's someone you cared (and still care) about. I had to do it recently with a rescue animal that passed in my hands from surgery complications on a major holiday. I never ended up posting the video because I was such a mess. I feel you here. You did great.

[@nataliestaheli51602]

I'm just so sorry for you in losing such a great family member! Yes, animals are family members too! I'm crying along with you! You did all you could do, and that's enough! Hugs!!❤

[@ladysatinekenobi8723]

You did everything that you could for Rocco no one could have loved and cared about him more.

[@alexlebedew7842]

Awwww I’m going to miss Rocko! He made me laugh out loud. I’m so sorry for your loss.

[@susanfantozzi4415]

Its so hard loosing our fur and feather friends. We can all see how much you loved him. Our collective arms hug you across miles and seas. You have a large family of support out here to lift you up. Blessings to you and your family.

[@Nika44]

It is heartbreaking to see that despite all the effort, the loved one suffered from the disease we tried to avoid, but you've done as much as you could have done, he had amazing family and let's hope he is behind the Rainbow Bridge, waiting for you to come some day. I've cried with you, while I was watching Rocko's journey through diabetes and I send you lots of hugs, stay strong, Rocko would be proud of you, because even in this hard time, you never stop helping other birds in need.

[@starwalker3488]

Thank you for sharing the findings openly with us, and for being so brave to show your grief. We're often all too scared to show that. Is it possible that Rocko could have been genetically predisposed towards iron storage disease more than usual for a Toucan? We see that in Humans, such as family predisposition to cancer or neurological disorders. If he was somehow more sensitive to the disease than 'normal' then your careful attentiveness to his diet and water may have significantly prolonged his life. Though he lived far fewer years than you, and us, would like, they were clearly years in which he was deeply loved and it was always clear in your videos that he adored you. x

[@thetreasuredbottle4642]

You were are the best mama, and sometimes you can do everything right and pour your soul into being safe and still things happen. Bless your heart. We all love and support you.

[@Loveofpets]

The poem is beautiful. You went beyond what others may have done to help him thrive. I recently lost my Lorikeet and there was something wrong with his pancreas. The vet guessed diabetes but never mentioned iron storage disease. Rocko will be soaring the sky now and will be watching over your family and keeping you all safe.

[@hurlburtfamcamp6476]

Jamieleigh, I am so sorry to see this video, I don't follow as closely as I should, and missed news of Rocko's passing. I know that he had the best life possible, as yall treat all of the birds in your care to. I (and especially my little birds) are so thankful for the information you pass, you make hundreds if not thousands of bird's lives better with your channel. You have certainly made me a better bird parent, and Gilly and Manny thank you for that. l am so sorry, and will keep yall in my prayers.

[@samhitatripathy2782]

I almost cried in the last videos of Rocko and I almost cried in this one as well. I just hope that where ever he is, he is happy. As a pet owner I know how big of a step you took, when you decided to take his suffering away by euthanizing him. Just be brave and strong and one day who knows, maybe Rocko is waiting on the other side for you.

[@robertjones6891]

Poor baby, I am so sorry. I know this pain and it's a really hurtful one. The reason behind it all is so heartbreaking. Even when we try everything, it's sometimes not enough. What however was good enough, was your love for him and the quality of life you provided.

[@milosflock162]

My heart hurts for all of you, as the love you shared with Rocko is so evident in all of your videos. Please take the blessing of Rocko and apply all You have learned to better the care of toucans in captivity moving forward. That will be his legacy. He is always with you, fly free beautiful bird.

[@axelessfern]

My heart goes out to y'all. Losing a pet/friend/loved one is so hard.

[@birdbrain3594]

I'm sitting here crying, and sending your family lots of love and hoping you heal asap from this devastating loss. 🥺 I almost was in a similar position with Cheeky my Goffin cockatoo on March, she fell very ill and I was told she had kidney disease and renal failure, only for the vet to say since she bounced back so well with meds she actually doesn't have that and should live a normal life. My father told me Cheeky had days to live, and I too, felt robbed of time. I am so grateful she recovered from the infection or whatever it was that made her so sick. It is so frustrating when the vet has no idea how to prevent these things, my vet doesn't know what got Cheeky so sick suddenly. I was always so envious of your adorable toucan cuddles with Rocko, and I am so very sorry he was taken from you so soon. Just know he loves you and is waiting for you in heaven. 💕💕🕊🦜

[@vivavasquez]

i am so very sorry for your loss , i have lost so much in 5 years , i imagined giving you my birds when we were struggling and became nomadic .i don't say that with ease , they were my children . i loved them so much they were my reason for waking up each day . .

[@booder81]

Over here sobbing, I needed to hear that poem as I lost my little Pineapple Conure, Mango 4/12. We are waiting on her necropsy & it’s such a hard place to be. Your videos bring me so much peace & comfort as I feel what you do. You are what inspired me to start my flock so many years ago. I’m so grateful for the sharing/teaching/helping that you do. It helps make me a better mom to my babies. Your love for Rocco was beautiful but the love Rocco had for you was inspiring. Something magical to watch. Until you meat again ❤

[@thesensenetcollective5378]

Thank you so much for sharing this. I just lost my rescue parrot, Tookie a 12 yr old Senegal a week ago very unexpectedly and hearing all these lovely comments were so amazing. I was crying so much when you were talking about how you did everything you thought you could and I felt the same way about my Tookie. When she was rescued, her liver was having some problems, nothing too serious but we kept an eye on it. My last rescue parrot, a Meyers named Monte died after a horrible battle with liver disease so I was bound and determined my next rescue would not suffer his same fate. I took more classes, I became a better parrot mom and was giving Tookie my everything to prevent her from having to suffer the way my little boy Monte did at his end of life. After our first year of being with her, I taught her how to fly and she was on a good diet. We did her well bird visit and while some other areas had improved, the vet thought her liver results still required more attention. We put her on some meds that I was giving her twice a day and in about 5 months the meds were done and it was time for a follow up visit. During this time I had moved to another state and had found a new vet in my area who was familiar with seeing birds. I'll spare all the details, but she went in for blood work and a nail trim and I came home with her in a box :( They said she had a heart attack and they couldn't revive her. I felt like you did that despite everything I did, she still died and didn't even live nearly as long as Monte had. She had better medical treatment, more exercise, a better diet than Monte...yet...I still couldn't save her. Although we only had her less than 2 years, our bond had already grown so deep. She was truly one of those special rescues in so many ways and the shock of it all is hard to accept. We love all of our babies, but some just shine so bright in our hearts and she was one of those as I'm sure Rocko was to you. We have to keep telling ourselves we did everything we could and sometimes these things are simply out of our hands. What's important is that while they were in our guardianship, we gave them so much love and a happy home and that's what truly matters. We can't let ourselves go down the guilt or blame path...all the what if's our should've could'ves will keep up tied to the past for an event that we had no control over despite all of our best efforts. Rocko truly loved you and yes, he's looking down on you saying, momma, you loved me so much and made me so happy, don't be sad! Thinking that my Tookie is saying the same thing to me, helps me to pull through these difficult days. We must be strong for all the other birds out there that need us...this is our weight to carry so they don't have to. Respect to all the bird parents out there, it's not an easy job but we do it b/c we want to be there for them as their loving forever homes so they can live the best years of their life under our stewardship

[@griff5957]

Again I’m so sorry for your loss. I’ve been watching you guys for the better part of eight years now, and your instructions have been very helpful for me for both my teils and keets. Rocko was such a wonderful example of how amazing birds can be with people, and the bond the two of built and the memories you have with him will last forever. It’s never easy to loose a pet but our avian friends are definitely the hardest because of how long we are together.

[@anniesaojeda1909]

Fly high little guy ❤️

[@abstracthoughts012]

I cry everytime I hear you speak about Rocko...but never forget you gave him a beautiful life full of love. I'm certain he is waiting for you across the rainbow Bridge. Eatting all the blueberries and making a huge fruity mess! Lol. I lost my Sheperd to cancer that came out of nowhere. Sudden illness makes it feel like you've had time robbed from you, but just remember all the love that he gave you and know you did your best for him. That's all anyone can ever do. You're a wonderful birdie momma! ♡ An you do so much to help others be the same. Sending lots of hugs! ♡♡♡

[@high-bi-password]

Was not expecting to cry this much today. He really doesn't look like just any random Toco toucan - he is forever Rocko.

[@joanneplunkett3936]

I'm so sorry. I've only watched your channel a few times, but I can see the love and care you put into birds. I have 5 of my own now and I have lost 2 parrots of my own. I know how much love they give. I don't think I can live without any of them. If any of them were to die, I would die a little too. I'm so sorry. 💔

[@elfiefromangelcity6142]

I'm so sorry for your loss. I don't have parrots, but I love animals, and love learning about them, and I have a lot of respect for your channel and what you do. As I understand, toucans are not easy pets by ANY stretch. But I would trust you with one, so I know you did all you could. The hardest part of owning pets is not the destroyed furniture, not the clean up, not the training frustration. The hardest part of owning all pets is saying good bye.

[@melrenee5416]

I recently lost a cat in March, my baby girl Mouse. She was going to be 2 in July, I miss her every day and its been killing me. This video unexpectedly helped so much, the comments on here and in the video are so beautiful and made me see the brighter side of the pain, however hard it is to see. Thank you everyone here and I hope you have an easier time grieving for Rokko, its so clear how much you loved him throughout your videos

[@shelleeroe]

When you talked about Grief taking over your days temporarily I truly believe that. How we are able to be there for each other is what resonates with me. I'm so happy, seeing this a year later, that you were uplifted when you felt down and out. We, as people, can have a way of connecting that is so beautiful.

[@grievousangelic]

Jamieleigh, you did the very best you could. You loved Rocko and gave him the best care he could possibly have had. He never knew a moment under your care where he wasn't loved and cared for. He never knew fear. That's something to take with you. You did the right thing when it was time, even though it broke your heart to do it. You were willing to make the hard choice when you had to, which some pet owners don't do. Many hugs.

[@justseekingtruth3998]

I've only just met you thru this video. I am so very sorry for your loss. I rescue animals, mostly cats and dogs, and I know we'll the pain of loss. It does seem that you love your animals greatly and have worked hard to keep them healthy. It does seem there was nothing you did or could do to prevent this or cause it. Clearly your baby lived you and knew you loved him. My throat tightens and my eyes water at just the thought of having to put him down. I think it is the hardest thing humans have to do in this life. Please don't blame yourself, your vet couldn't even answer why. You are a good pet parent. Take care of yourself and remember the good parts. Your boy would want you to 💜💔

[@claudiaghidella2255]

Oh my dear, you did everything you could. I am so sorry for your loss. Clearly you are a wonderful birdie mom.

[@malanisuewheeler8092]

You did the best , as you always do, you could do for sweet sweet Rock’os. He was well loved no one can say otherwise. Love and hugs.

[@smartsoe123]

No words except I’m so sorry. Lots of love and hugs.

[@DandyT1990]

Thank you for sharing this heartbreaking journey with us It's a great outlet for you, but it's also good for others who are grieving or going through similar issues You did all you could for Rocko and he loved, which is obvious in the videos ❤️

[@melissasantana1023]

I’m so sorry for your loss! I pray that God blesses you and your family with all of the love and strength that you need right now. 🤍🙏

[@martyplunkett7011]

Beautiful and oh so sad video! I cried with you and my heart is hurting! So sorry for your loss Jamie, but you were so loved by Rocko, may you carry your memories of him with you forever and God Bless🙏❤️

[@helenwalker716]

God bless you. I am so very sorry for your loss. You did everything you could. I’m crying for you.❤️❤️

[@dianah4016]

The poem just destroyed me! Around the time when you lost Rocko, I was losing my cat Seus, and his whole story has been resonating with me way too much. Hearing the poem, I just remembered my baby. May we love them forever, because they loved us more. May we meet them wherever they are, someday many years from now, so that we can rest and cuddle again.

[@carolumyi4768]

My heart goes out to you on the loss of Rocko. I am new to your channel and the love you have for your birds touches me every time I watch. Rocko was such a fun loving bird and he will always be in my thoughts. (Bandit will always be in my mind as well.)

[@sadienewman2391]

I want to preface what I have to say with this; I found your channel yesterday by chance through the Snake Discovery collaboration. When I was a young child I did have a parakeet but in all honesty I haven’t had much of an interest above other animals with birds since then. But even without my own connection it is truly beautiful seeing how close of a relationship you had with him, how much he meant to you and how much you meant to him(which you can see in the clips of you both together). It is really touching to hear you share about it. And my heart goes out to you. Like I’m sure you already know, remember that his memory can be of joy and love even through the grief. You have inspired me through the videos I’ve been watching to see how amazing birds can be. Stay strong, his presents in your life seems to have been a true gift.

[@TrudySchwartzBurrill]

I’m sorry. I know how you feel. I lost my double yellow head almost two yrs ago, on July 31 2020. I’ve decided to get a new bird. I pick her up in July. Now I’m fearful again. I’ve been without a bird for the first two years in my life since I was 19. I’m almost 66 next month. It’s been 2 very hard years without a bird. Its too strange not having one and I really need one they make me happier than most humans do. My heart is bleeding for your loss. You of all people know how to care for birds this is very scary and I don’t want to doubt my decision. G-d bless you and all bird lovers that will do everything we always can for them.

[@gabby6949]

everything happens for a reason Rockos story will inspire and help so many bird and toucan owners every step you take Rocko will be flying up high above you cheering you on. You gave him such a good life any bird would dream of. He knew how much you loved him and will always love you. Stay happy and remember the good times keep doing what your doing and keep making Rocko so proud R.I.P we will always remember, miss, and love you Rocko

[@mattx3020]

birds are so good at masking symptoms too im so sorry jamie, all the hugs

[@jewelhaines8842]

Aww..that beautiful poem😪❤ Rocco is loved.

[@KutWrite]

My heart aches for you. During my 55+ years of bird ownership, I've been there several times with previous birds. If your mind and heart are open, you'll keep and treasure the many lessons our bird-buddies teach us. My compliments on the beauty of your backdrop, blouse, and... soul. God continue to love and bless you and yours.

[@dasheast1]

Oh my, such a hard video this must have been to make! Rocky was beautiful inside and out and you did Everything you knew to do and then some! Please know how much Rocko loved you and how much we are all learning from you and your wonderful relationships with all your birds ❤️💚💙

[@jessie_dreams_]

I'm so sorry about your friend💜 he was a beautiful toucan. I lost my goat Branch 6 months ago when he was 8 months old, out of nowhere and it still hurts everyday. Every single day. I can hardly look at pictures of his sweet face without crying. The love these babies show to us and show us how much we are capable of giving, even if it's "just a goat", or "just a bird", is a beautiful and magical thing. Rocco and Branch will always be with us, and always love us as much as we love them 💜 hugs 💜

[@lizmnv]

I am so sorry for your loss. You are amazing bird parents. You did the best you knew how. My heart goes out for you. You obviously love your birds

[@carolemomma]

Thank you for staring and being so real. Knowing that he died from the very disease you fought so hard to avoid is just shocking and gut wrenching. His life will contribute to the knowledge of appropriate toucan care, someday people may just figure it out! Many, many hugs!