Ruffled Feathers Parrot Sanctuary Inc.
Another July 11 is upon us. Here at Ruffled Feathers Parrot Sanctuary, that means diving deep into July 11 wildlife history. We explore both the feathered chaos happening in our sanctuary and the incredible historical moments that shaped our world.
From chaotic cockatoos staging bath-time protests, July 11 wildlife history never fails to deliver unforgettable stories. It includes historic milestones that changed everything. Larry the Amazon made a legendary splash in 2016. Alexander Hamilton engaged in a fateful duel in 1804. This date proves that both birds and humans know how to make history memorable.
Let’s dive in with a focus on feathers. We want to explore how July 11 wildlife history connects our daily rescue work. It links directly with the bigger picture of human achievement and wildlife conservation.
In 2016, we learned that clean water wasn’t just for ducks. Larry the Amazon staged a full-blown protest. Her bath got delayed. That legendary splash became part of our growing July 11 wildlife history. Let’s just say the floors haven’t been dry since.
Meanwhile, human history gave us a chilling reminder on this same date: July 11, 1995, marked the fall of Srebrenica. While we were untangling hoses and parrot drama, the world remembered a moment that reshaped Europe’s postwar conscience. It’s humbling to think about how the threads of July 11 wildlife history intersect with global human events.
Before we dive into bird baths and baby opossums, let’s look at some events that have made this date anything but ordinary:
- 140bc: Roman Emperor Wen of Han dies
- 1798: the U.S. Marine Corps was re-established
- 1804: Alexander Hamilton is mortally wounded in a duel with Aaron Burr
- 1859: The first time Big Ben chimed – Charles Blodwin Tightropes across the Niagra Falls
- 1950: “Peanuts” comic strip by Charles Schulz
- 1955: The phrase “In God We Trust” was added to U.S. currency.
- 1960: Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird is published
- 1979: Skylab, America’s first space station, falls back to Earth
- 1987: The world population reaches five billion (and the parrot population hits critical screech)
- 1991: Total solar eclipse
- 2006: A series of bombings on Mumbai’s commuter rail system resulted in numerous casualties.
- 2010: Spain wins its first FIFA World Cup, proving humans also enjoy loud celebrations and colorful outfits
Just last year, on July 11, 2024, I was letting y’all know I was still in the thick of it. Working hard, even if I hadn’t had much time to post. This sanctuary life is a constant juggle.
What else was happening on a July 11th, way back when? On July 11, 140 BC, the Roman Emperor Wen of Han died. He had a pretty chill reign for a Roman Emperor – focused on reducing taxes and not being a total tyrant.
Think of it: I was meticulously cleaning cages, probably trying to convince a cockatoo that no, the remote control is not a chew toy. Meanwhile, Emperor Wen was probably just – not being a jerk. A simple, yet profound, goal for us all, really.
Fast forward to July 11, 1804, and we’ve got Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr settling their differences the old-fashioned way, with pistols at dawn in Weehawken, New Jersey. Hamilton, who apparently never learned that sometimes it’s better to just let things go, ended up mortally wounded.
Meanwhile, I’m over here two centuries later trying to teach rescue birds that biting the hand that feeds you is generally poor life strategy. At least my daily drama doesn’t involve actual duels, though I’ll admit some of the personality clashes between certain parrots could probably rival any political feud.
July 11, 2023, was a banner day for unsolicited advice. I posted about the endless stream of ‘expert’ opinions on how to fix a plucking cockatoo. Oh, the wisdom bestowed upon us! ‘Just give them more toys!’ ‘Have you tried essential oils?’ ‘Maybe they need a tiny therapist’s couch?’
If I had a dollar for every piece of well-intentioned advice, I probably build a solid gold aviary. Sadly, so much of it is utterly unhelpful. Which, let’s be honest, would probably just get chewed on anyway.
But let me tell you something delightful. On that very same day in 2023, we saw the glorious debut of our ducklings. They had just discovered the sheer joy of swimming!
Their chicken mom, bless her heart, stood by, looking a mixture of sad, relieved, and utterly bewildered. It was a true “proud parent, slightly confused parent” moment. We even had a mandarin duck named Cheese stepping in as a “daddy” figure. It was a feathered family affair!
Historical Connection: On July 11, 1798, the U.S. Marine Corps was re-established. Imagine this. Our ducklings were taking their first glorious, wobbly swims. Meanwhile, a whole branch of the military was getting its act back together. I’m not saying the ducks inspired them. Still, who’s to say a newly confident duckling isn’t as motivating as a call to arms? One is about defending freedom, the other is about defending mealworms from cheeky parakeets. Both noble causes, if you ask me.
July 11, 1859, marked the first time Big Ben chimed in London’s clock tower. After all the engineering challenges and delays, that first chime must have been music to Victorian ears.
You know what else makes beautiful music? Our birds! Well, most of the time. Sometimes it’s more like a heavy metal concert with feathers, but we love them anyway.
Our video posts from 2018 come to mind. In those videos, Baby was “striking a pose and being a pretty girl.” Meanwhile, Kiki was ‘performing a wild dance and scream. If Big Ben represented precision and reliability, our birds represent… enthusiastic chaos with occasional moments of pure magic.
Big Ben became a symbol of precision. Similarly, our birds have become living examples of how July 11 wildlife history includes both mechanical marvels and natural wonders.
Some announce the hour with dignity (yes, Goldie, we’re looking at you). Others prefer to announce everything at top volume (Kiki, yes, we’re talking about you).
Time-Related Bird Wisdom: Birds are actually incredible timekeepers. Many species have internal clocks that put Big Ben to shame. They know precisely when feeding time is. These birds can sense the moment their favorite human arrives. And they certainly know when it’s time for their evening dramatic performance.
It’s like having 50+ living alarm clocks that also happen to have opinions about everything.
July 11, 1914 – Babe Ruth made his Major League Baseball debut. He pitched the Boston Red Sox to a 4-3 victory over Cleveland. The Sultan of Swat was just getting started on his legendary career.
Fast forward to July 11, 2022. I’m posting about our Blue & Gold Macaws. One of them is singing “My Country ‘Tis of Thee.” He hums and mumbles the entire song. Then, he belts out “FROM SEA TO SHINING SEA” at the top of his lungs. ?
Both Babe and our macaw were rookies showing off their pipes! Ruth became a legend with his bat, but our feathered friend? He’s already a legend in our hearts with that patriotic performance. Sometimes the best debuts happen in the most unexpected places.
That same day in 2022, I was also picking up some opossum babies. Because, you know, running a bird sanctuary just isn’t exciting enough. We had full bellies and were off to bed. It’s a wild life, but someone’s gotta do it. And honestly, tiny opossum babies are pretty darn cute.
July 11, 1960 – Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird was published. It became one of the most important books about justice. It also taught lessons about empathy and standing up for what’s right.
On July 11, 2017, Kiki was quoted on our page. He said, “Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world.” This was originally said by Nelson Mandela.
Here’s the thing – both Harper Lee and our birds understand something fundamental: stories have power. Whether it’s Atticus Finch defending the innocent or Kiki dropping wisdom bombs on Facebook, education is a powerful tool. Empathy can also create change. Every rescue story we share is important. Each educational post about bird behavior matters. Every moment we help someone understand these incredible creatures is our “To Kill a Mockingbird” moment.
July 11, 1979 – The US space station Skylab made its dramatic re-entry into Earth’s atmosphere. Debris fell into the Indian Ocean and Australia. After 6 years in space, it was coming home whether we were ready or not.
That same date in 2019, I was warning folks about birds being stolen off porches around Kentucky. Both stories perfectly illustrate how July 11 wildlife history encompasses everything from space exploration to backyard bird safety.
But here’s what gets me – Skylab was this massive achievement of human engineering. When it came down, people were both terrified and amazed.
Our birds? They’re living, breathing miracles of natural engineering. When they “fall from the sky” into our lives (sometimes literally, when they escape), they bring that same mix of wonder and “oh crap, what do we do now?”
Since 1989, July 11th has been World Population Day, focusing on global population issues and sustainability.
Every July 11th, I look at our posts and see the same themes. I notice growth, community, and taking care of each other. In 2020, Tara posted about Axle (our 120lb German Shepherd who was mostly hair) exploring while I wasn’t home. In 2016, we had Pearl and Ray hitting it off, sitting quietly and dozing next to each other.
Population growth isn’t just about numbers – it’s about relationships, families forming, communities growing. Whether it’s 7 billion humans or 200+ birds in our sanctuary, the essence is the same. We must guarantee everyone has what they need to thrive. This connection between global awareness and local action is what July 11 wildlife history is all about.
Coincidentally, on July 11, 1991, a total solar eclipse was visible across parts of the Americas. We were sweeping up enough dog fur to knit a small horse while people looked up at the sky, mesmerized by a celestial event.
It just goes to show, there’s always something incredible happening, whether it’s in your living room or light-years away. Though I’m fairly certain the dog shed more light than the eclipse did in my house that day.
| Year | Main Theme | Animal Focus |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 | Clean Water & Bathing Birds | Larry the Amazon |
| 2017 | Bird Facts & Quotes | Glaucous Macaw, Ani |
| 2018 | Sassy Birds Strike Again | Ray, Kiki, Baby, Magic |
| 2019 | Safety & Awareness | Stoeln Birds, porch pets |
| 2020 | Dog Defense Court | Axel the German Shepherd |
| 2022 | Family Roles in the Wild | Ducks, Chicken Mom, M2s |
| 2023 | Advice (Wanted or Not) | Cockatoos, Ruffles |
| 2024 | Still Standing | Most of us |
These moments of reflection are woven throughout July 11 wildlife history. They remind us that every day brings opportunities for both grand gestures. We also find chances for quiet kindness. I posted a philosophical gem. “The day you become too busy and important to help another marks the day you lose your significance.”
It’s a mantra we try to live by here at Ruffled Feathers. Every bird, every critter, every person who needs a hand, they matter. Unfortunately, it was also the day I had to warn everyone about birds being stolen off porches around Kentucky. It’s a heartbreaking reality that people would do such a thing. Always keep a close eye on your feathered family members, folks!
Historical Perspective: On July 11, 1859, Charles Blondin became the first person to walk a tightrope across Niagara Falls. Now, that’s putting yourself out there! While I was stressing about bird thieves, I was pondering the meaning of importance. Meanwhile, this guy was just casually strolling over a giant waterfall. Talk about perspective! Though, I’m pretty sure our birds are more acrobatic than that human fly when they decide it’s playtime.
July 11, 2018, was a day for appreciating the beauty of budgerigars (did you know they’re probably the most popular cage bird? Smart little fluff balls!) and a classic “Tara vs. Stinky Amazon” bath time showdown. Some birds love a shower; others act like you’re trying to drown them in a puddle of lava. It’s a delicate dance, often ending with me more wet than the bird.
Fun Historical Fact: On July 11, 1950, the first “Peanuts” comic strip by Charles Schulz was published. I was getting soaked by a recalcitrant Amazon parrot. Meanwhile, Snoopy and the gang were making their debut. They were bringing gentle humor and philosophical insights to the world. I’d like to think the birds here give similar, albeit louder and messier, philosophical insights. Like, “Why is my water bowl empty five seconds after you just filled it?” Deep thoughts, indeed.
July 11, 2017, was all about spreading knowledge! Kiki, one of our wise feathered residents, reminded us of Nelson Mandela’s powerful quote. He said, “Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world.” And boy, do we believe that here! The more people understand about proper bird care, the less suffering we see. It’s why we share so much with you all!
We also had Bear Bryant, our spoiled little charmer, doing his thing. He’d lean back for pets like a king on his throne.
And Chaco was singing and dancing, showing off his moves. It was a day of good vibes and happy birds.
Historical Note: On July 11, 1955, the phrase “In God We Trust” was added to U.S. currency. So, while our birds were out there educating and entertaining, a significant shift in national symbolism was occurring. You can say both events were about instilling certain values and beliefs. One through the power of education and adorable bird antics, the other through, well, money. I know which one I find more trustworthy, though! (It involves feathers, not dollar bills.)
July 11, 2006 – A series of bombings on Mumbai’s commuter rail system resulted in numerous casualties. It was a dark day that reminded us how precious and fragile life really is.
I don’t have a post from that exact date, but I think about this every time we get an emergency call. Every life matters – whether it’s a human caught in tragedy or an animal found injured on the side of the road. The response is the same: drop everything, help however you can, and never give up on saving a life.
July 11th Appearances
July 11, 2016, was a prime example of our commitment to enrichment and hygiene! Sweety was enjoying a luxurious bath in our outdoor fountain, and I was busy explaining all the safety precautions we take to keep it clean and mosquito-free. Because a happy bird is a clean bird, and a clean fountain means no unwanted six-legged guests!
We also had some fun asking you all to name a bird where the male and female are different colors, a little feathered pop quiz! Someone even suggested a “rear of the year” contest for bird butts. I mean, who doesn’t love a good bird butt? It’s all about appreciating every angle, folks!
Revolutionary Connection: On this very day, July 11, 1776, the official Declaration of Independence was first read publicly in Philadelphia. Imagine: while I was meticulously cleaning a bird fountain, a document that would shape a nation was being proclaimed to the masses. One was about revolutionary freedom, the other about providing a clean, refreshing spa day for a feathered friend. Both, in their own ways, are about well-being!
History remembers the big moments, the dramatic gestures, the turning points. But life is lived in the small moments.
The way Sweety tilts her head when she’s figuring out a new toy. That satisfied sigh Axle made when he finally found the perfect napping spot. The gentle way a once-aggressive bird finally accepts a head scratch.
History remembers the big moments, the dramatic gestures, the turning points. But life is lived in the small moments.
The way Sweety tilts her head when she’s figuring out a new toy. The satisfied sigh Axle made when he finally found the perfect napping spot. The gentle way a once-aggressive bird finally accepts a head scratch.
July 11th has seen everything from deadly duels to space stations falling from the sky to literary masterpieces being born. But it’s also witnessed thousands of small miracles: birds learning to trust again, families finding their perfect feathered companion, people discovering that the “difficult” bird is just misunderstood.
As I once said in our posts: “The day you become too busy and important to help another is actually the day you become not very important at all.” Whether we’re talking about historical figures or the humans and birds in our daily lives, the principle remains the same.
Every July 11th that passes adds another layer to our story. Some years bring challenges (looking at you, 2023 advice-givers), others bring pure joy (duck babies discovering swimming!), and still others bring quiet moments of connection (Pearl and Ray dozing together). But they all matter.
The beautiful thing about history – both the world’s and ours – is that it’s still being written. Every bird we save, every person we educate, every moment of understanding we create between humans and animals becomes part of the larger story.
So here’s to July 11th. A toast to all the history it has witnessed. Here’s to all the small but significant moments it continues to create. Because sometimes the most important revolutions happen one bird, one person, one moment of understanding at a time.
You might be walking tightropes over Niagara Falls, publishing literary masterpieces, or even just making sure a scared cockatoo knows they’re safe. It all means you’re making history.
Want to learn more about birds, history, or the magical intersection of both? Follow our ongoing adventures here at Ruffled Feathers, where every day is a chance to make a little history of our own.
#rfpsinc #RuffledFeathersParrotSanctuary #July11History #ParrotRescue #EducationMatters #CommunityLove #EveryLifeMatters #LouisvilleKY #BirdsOfInstagram #RescueLife #WorldPopulationDay #ToKillAMockingbird #History #ParrotEducation #SanctuaryLife
I haven�t had time to post much lately but I�m still here and working hard. Here is a little bit of what I�ve been up to…
Posted by Ruffled Feathers on Thursday, July 11, 2024
One thing I love about helping birds is everywhere I go somebody is always happy to see me. Ruffles has to have my…
Posted by Ruffled Feathers on Tuesday, July 11, 2023
It�s so exciting when people offer me advice on how to handle a cockatoo and fix it so they don�t pluck anymore. Because…
Posted by Brad Harmon on Tuesday, July 11, 2023
Enjoy this years batch of duck babies swimming on the pond. They just recently discovered swimming and their chicken mom stood at the edge looking so sad yet so relieved at the same time. Their mom has actually taken back over with cheese our mandarin standing in for a daddy. They are growing up so fast on us. I was playing with the m-2�s today and one of them started to sing the my country tis of thee song. He hums and mumbles like the entire song and then at the end he belts out from sea to shining sea at the top of his lungs all loud and proud. Pretty funny. They were all letting me get their pin feathers today but they had so many even I got wore out with it. I�ll tackle some more tomorrow. ?
Posted by Brad Harmon on Monday, July 11, 2022
Luckily for me I happen to know someone with access to an excessive amount of bird toys. So we are going to secretly…
Posted by Brad Harmon on Monday, July 11, 2022
Current situation. Just got back into town this evening to pick up some opossum babies. We have full bellies and are going to bed. That is all. ?
Posted by Brad Harmon on Sunday, July 10, 2022
Excuse the dog hair on the steps. I have a 120lb German Shepard that is mostly hair. no matter what I do, he sheds. Chase loves to go exploring especially when Brad isn�t home he likes to search for us. That�s why the door is closed. He�s very sneaky. Lol. -Tara
Posted by Ruffled Feathers on Saturday, July 11, 2020
The day you become too busy and important to help another is actually the day you become not very important at all.
Posted by Brad Harmon on Thursday, July 11, 2019
I've gotten several reports of birds stolen off of peoples porches around Kentucky. Please be aware and keep a close eye on them if outside.
Posted by Brad Harmon on Thursday, July 11, 2019
Here kitty kitty kitty. Did you guys get out the door and get lost? Lol teasing they are just hitching a ride today. I…
Posted by Brad Harmon on Thursday, July 11, 2019
I know people will likely jump on me for questioning the construction on Dixie Hwy but I have to. I�m sitting at a light…
Posted by Brad Harmon on Thursday, July 11, 2019
Zeus one of the new macaws gave us quite the scare tonight. She passed it tho and is doing ok now. We really fell for…
Posted by Brad Harmon on Wednesday, July 10, 2019
I think I�m ready to start posting again. This little beauty was found outside and no one has been looking for him yet….
Posted by Ruffled Feathers on Thursday, July 11, 2019
Birds of Australia: Budgerigar Although domesticated budgerigars are probably the most popular of cage-birds, in parts…
Posted by Ruffled Feathers on Wednesday, July 11, 2018
I get whatevered a lot these days. Lol. Either way this stinky Amazon is getting a shower. Have a good night! -Tara
Posted by Ruffled Feathers on Wednesday, July 11, 2018
My sweet baby Ray looks like he�s ready to fly at my head. Lol. Don�t worry he�s a good boy and landed beside me. Hope your day is going well! -Tara
Posted by Ruffled Feathers on Wednesday, July 11, 2018
I take so many pictures I caught Magic blinking. Lol off at our favorite place but it was super hot out. Have a great Wednesday everyone. – Brad
Posted by Ruffled Feathers on Wednesday, July 11, 2018
Baby is awake and Kiki is too! Baby is striking a pose and being a pretty girl. Kiki is performing a crazy dance and scream. Lol. Have a good day! -Tara
Posted by Ruffled Feathers on Wednesday, July 11, 2018
Parrots of the World: South America Glaucous Macaw Length 72 cm. ADULTS general plumage greenish-blue, more greenish…
Posted by Ruffled Feathers on Tuesday, July 11, 2017
I didn't have a good video for tonight. I got off work late and then had to run a few errands before finally getting to go home. So here's a short video of Chaco. We love to sing and dance. -Tara
Posted by Ruffled Feathers on Tuesday, July 11, 2017
Chaco doesn't think we have people from almost every state that follows him on this page. I told him he even has people…
Posted by Ruffled Feathers on Tuesday, July 11, 2017
Shazam says hey baby, it's hot outside! Why don't you come inside and check out the ruffled feathers page?! We love meeting new people and birds! Tell your friends to check us out! Have a good day! -Tara
Posted by Ruffled Feathers on Tuesday, July 11, 2017
Ms. Doodle Bugs is my work buddy today! Doesn't take much for us to get so excited! Now if only we got actual work done, but that wouldn't be much fun now would it! BRRRRRRRR! ??? Like us at Happy Wings Sanctuary and follow the adventures of Mac-a-Doodle Bugs!
Posted by Happy Wings Sanctuary on Tuesday, July 11, 2017
Kiki says "Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world." First said however by Nelson Mandela….
Posted by Ruffled Feathers on Tuesday, July 11, 2017
Bear Bryant is awake and ready to start the day. He is so spoiled. When you go to pet him he will lean back like he's…
Posted by Ruffled Feathers on Tuesday, July 11, 2017
Birds of South America: Smooth-billed Ani Belying the parasitic reputation of their family, these black cuckoos lead…
Posted by Ruffled Feathers on Monday, July 11, 2016
Wing man says it's a Great day to a Grey!!!
Posted by LeAnn Buchanan on Monday, July 11, 2016
Sweety bathing in the fountainJust Sweety enjoying herself a shower. Don't watch her you creepers. Lol I'm just being silly. I have gotten several questions about our fountain that I would like to take the time to answer here. First off it is outside so bugs and things could make a home in it so I always pull the plug and drain it when we are done for the day. I also make sure to fill it up with only fresh clean water when we are going to use it. I also pressure wash it as often as I pressure wash the entire floor of the aviary which is about once a week. That's about it we just don't want mosquitoes to set up shop anywhere near by so we remain vigilant. I hope that answers a couple questions. Have a great evening everyone. – Brad
Posted by Ruffled Feathers on Monday, July 11, 2016
Somebody suggested we have a rear of the year contest. I say we all just comment below and show off those cute little…
Posted by Ruffled Feathers on Monday, July 11, 2016
The male and female of this bird are two different colors. Can you name it? – Brad
Posted by Ruffled Feathers on Monday, July 11, 2016
Pearl and Ray seem to be hitting it off nicely. I consider sitting quietly dosing off next to one another to mean a…
Posted by Ruffled Feathers on Monday, July 11, 2016
All the birds say �If there's a book that you want to read, but it hasn't been written yet, then you must write it.� First said however by Toni Morrison. Enjoy your day everyone. – Brad
Posted by Ruffled Feathers on Monday, July 11, 2016
Stormy was nice enough to get out of bed and grace us with his majesty's presence this morning. Lol He is a super bird but he isn't as great as he seems to think he is. Lol Have a great Monday everyone. – Brad
Posted by Ruffled Feathers on Monday, July 11, 2016
He is my little ray of light and warm cup of comfort! Lol I wish this for all our Ruffled Feathers friends! Have a wonderful Monday! – Marsha
Posted by Ruffled Feathers on Monday, July 11, 2016
Getting one of these beautiful guys in 4 weeks. Totally stoked 🙂
Posted by Dan Lawrence Berg on Saturday, July 9, 2016
We had strong winds here today so we found a sheltered spot where Frankie could soak up the fresh air and sunshine! It…
Posted by Ruffled Feathers on Sunday, July 10, 2016
Posted by Brad Harmon on Friday, July 11, 2014
Just unbelievable. This poor guy.
Posted by Brad Harmon on Friday, July 11, 2014
- Coping with Loss: Showing Compassion to Dying Wildlife(Opens in a new browser tab)
- May 6: Historical Milestones and Sanctuary Memories(Opens in a new browser tab)
- May 2: A Day for the Quiet Miracles
- May 10 Reflecting on Success: Celebrating Progress at Ruffled Feathers Sanctuary(Opens in a new browser tab)
- May 20 Adventures: From Lindbergh to Our Rescues(Opens in a new browser tab)
Share this:
Discover more from Ruffled Feathers Parrot Sanctuary Inc.
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.