Caring for the birds...			...in Telkwa
			by Lillian Weedmark

A few minutes out of Telkwa, on a treed 5-acre property, live 8 ducks, 8 pheasants, 2 crows, 1 evening grosbeak, 1 cat, 4 dogs, and 2 humans. At last count. The humans, Al Burrows and Brenda Mallory, are well known in the area as artists. Al is a woodcarver and Brenda is a water-colour painter, author, and speaker. For over 8 years, they have also been known for their small bird sanctuary.

Al Burrows and Brenda Mallory with two of their dogs

Al and Brenda have created a haven for sick or injured wild birds, uncared-for nestlings, and birds whose owners can no longer care for them. Their goal for each wild bird they care for is to eventually release it to fly free.

use BACK button to return One of the Silver pheasants inside the compound

Unfortunately, this is not always possible and the couple now have a permanent feathered family that includes some true eccentrics and characters. Take Felix the crow for instance. Felix likes to play tricks on the pheasants. He covers up their food with straw and tips over their water dishes, But when its time for bed, Felix forgets his tricks and snuggles up to one of the silver pheasants.