I got Cheeto from a family that was downsizing their home.  It was obvious he was very much loved, taken care of, and well-treated… but the new home was too small for such an outgoing bird.  

I picked him up in a large cargo van, so it was spacious enough for his (gifted) cage.  Even though I’ve let other birds ride shotgun in the car while I drive (see Pepper’s story!) Cheeto was unclipped.  I felt it would be safer to keep him inside his cage for the drive home.

Unfortunately, Cheeto had other plans… After a few minutes into our drive, Cheeto jiggled the door open and took the opportunity to escape.  Luckily, he had no desire to go too far. Instead, he flew onto my shoulder, looked me in the eye, and gave me a friendly “Hello!”