THE CLASS CLOWN
Meeko delights in living up to the cockatoo’s reputation. Meet him in today’s Pet Psyche,
Most adoring pet owners would do anything for their cherished companions, but could they speak for their furry or feathered or finned friends and tell us what they are thinking? To find out, we’re putting pet owners to the test with the personality questionnaire made famous by French novelist Marcel Proust. Meet Jennifer Ego and Meeko. As one of the most popular ambassadors in the Pawsitively Pets animal contingent, Meeko thrives on being the centre of attention. The 19-yearold Moluccan cockatoo is happiest when surrounded by throngs of admirers when he’s the main attraction at a camp program, visiting a seniors’ home or headlining at a birthday celebration.
Cockatoos are typically known as the “class clowns” of the bird world, and Meeko delights in living up to his reputation. Ego describes him as “destructive, defiant and silly.” Owning a cockatoo is like “having a 2-year-old (child) with a bolt cutter on their face,” she says. Left to his own devices, “Meeko could pretty much destroy everything in his path with that beak,” Ego says.
He can destroy pop cans, upholstered furniture, plastic water bottles and expensive computer cords (Ego found out the hard way).
While cockatoos are not known for being great talkers, Meeko has mas- tered the art of mimicry.
Summer months spent outside in his aviary he entertains himself — and everyone around him — by imitating the sounds of heavy equipment including jack hammers, power saws and drills. He’s also been known to wolf whistle at passing construction workers.
During his down time, Meeko enjoys listening to ’80s rock music by his favourite bands, AC/DC and Guns N’ Roses. He also recently added some Nicki Minaj to his playlist — the bass-heavy tracks in particular.
What is Meeko’s current state of mind?
“What type of trouble can I get into now?”
Who or what is the greatest love of Meeko’s life?
Breaking things.
What is Meeko’s most marked characteristic?
Dancing. When he’s in the outdoor aviary in the summer, neighbours will stop by and play him “Thunderstruck” (by AC/DC) on their phones. His head will start going, and he’ll swing on his perch — he’ll even go upside down and swing right around it.
Which talent would Meeko most like to have?
Singing (in tune).
What does Meeko consider his greatest achievement?
Winning over everyone he meets with his wonderful personality.
What is Meeko’s most treasured possession?
Cardboard boxes — he shreds them down to piles of confetti.
Which historical figure does Meeko most identify with?
Napoleon. We always say Meeko has “little man” syndrome.
What is Meeko’s motto?
Work hard, play hard! If you think you know what your animal companion is thinking, email petpsyche@gmail.com and tell us why they should be profiled.