The EWM Realty branch office out of which I work is right on the corner of US1 and Riviera Drive. I am on the top floor and it affords me a view of the blue rooftops of Coral Gables’ Chinese Village, our local fire station, and the palm trees (and traffic) that run down US1. That certainly does not sound like a very glamorous vista, but it often lets me see Miami’s flock of wild blue macaws!
As a Miami native I seem to always remember parrots flying around town. Growing up I always heard that these birds slept at the Parrot Jungle but were free to fly around the city at their leisure. After Hurricane Andrew, the rumor was that they escaped from Parrot Jungle and simply never flew back; however, according to the Jungle Island website not a single animal was lost from that facility (Jungle Island is the new version of Parrot Jungle, situated on Watson Island).
The big blue macaws are not a native species, so where did they come from if not from Parrot Jungle? According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, these birds probably started out as pets and were released when their owners decided that they could not handle them (or their loud squawking) any longer. Much like our other invasive species like iguanas and giant snails, the macaws that were released into the wild have thrived in Miami and now actually breed so their population has expanded naturally. Unlike the iguanas, pythons, and other creepy-crawlies, though, these parrots are pretty and do not seem to be hurting any native animals. Therefore the blue macaws are the one and only invasive species that I would like to see stick around.
If you need help buying or selling a home give Ashley Cusack a call at 305.798.8685, or visit her website at: Luxury Miami Real Estate.
My focused dedication as a realtor in my home town of Miami for over 25 years, consistently puts me at the top of my field. Whether you’re looking to buy or sell your home, let me help you from start to finish with my results-proven: professional marketing, excellent property exposure and comprehensive experience.
As the #7 Realtor company-wide at EWM in 2014, my focus is on Coral Gables, Coconut Grove, Pinecrest and South Miami — specializing in luxury real estate and waterfront properties. Call me today and let’s get started!
Don’t hesitate to reach out to me, Ashley Cusack at {305.798.8685, email and website}. EWM Realtors.
