TASC’s Midwest Bird Expo, Illinois
TASC’s Midwest Bird Expo is set to take place on 5 April 2008 in the main hall of the DuPage County Fairgrounds, Wheaton, Illinois. The Avicultural Society of Chicagoland (TASC) is an association made up of individuals who have been brought together by their common goal of providing a better life for birds in both their domestic and natural environments. TASC’s Midwest Bird Expo takes great strides toward that goal by making available every conceivable bird-related product, information, advice and more for bird-lovers to enjoy.
In addition to the many vendors that will be updating bird owners on the very latest products on the market, there will be a number of interesting and helpful workshops and talks by respected bird experts. The first workshop for the day will start at 10:00 am and is presented by Linda Morrow, a professional bird trainer and behavioral specialist. The workshop is designed to help owners and their companion birds build a strong relationship that will last a lifetime. Using the non-confrontational positive reinforcement method of clicker training, Linda will assist owners to communicate with their pet birds at the bird’s level of understanding. Not only can negative traits, such as biting, be overcome with this method, but positive reinforcement helps build a relationship which both bird and owner will find exceptionally rewarding.
Dr. Irene Pepperberg, who is noted for her in-depth studies in animal cognition, specializing in parrots, will be giving two lectures during the day. Together with her colleagues, Dr. Pepperberg’s research aims to establish the cognitive and communicative abilities of parrots as intelligent creatures. Their goal is to encourage responsible ownership of parrots, as well as promote conservation of parrots in the wild.
Hoffman’s Wild Animal Show will add an additional element of excitement to the day. Under the watchful eye of animal trainer, Bill Hoffman, and his team, audience participation is encouraged. Lively and entertaining commentary describes animal behavior and traits of a variety of interesting animals that love to interact with people.
Avian vet, Dr. Karen Becker, will be on hand between 10:00 am and 12:00 noon to answer questions relating to avian health. Dr. Becker is qualified to offer advice on conventional veterinary medical care as well as nutritional therapy, homeopathy, eastern and western herbal medicines, nutraceutical therapy and Bach Flower therapy. She is also certified in Reiki, which she uses with great success on hospitalized patients.
Other guests of honor include Dr. Peter Sakas, who has many years experience in avian medicine and is the author of “Essentials of Avian Medicine: A Guide for Practitioners”. Dr Jean Dubach, expert in animal genetics, will answer questions relating to his specialty which includes establishing relatedness and gender determination on birds at zoos and in private collections.
Certainly the schedule for the day is jam packed with activity. The first 200 people to arrive at TASC’s Midwest Bird Expo will receive great prizes, so make sure to get there early and be prepared to stay all day – doors open at 9:30 am.
