Achi news desk-
Merlin isn’t a wizard in Halifax, but he’s about to do a disappearing act.
According to a news release from the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, Merlin the Macaw, resident mascot for the facility, is flying to Safari Niagara in Fort Erie, Ontario.
The statement says Merlin, who arrived at the museum in 2006 and is now 22 years old, has shown signs of depression and stress since the COVID-19 pandemic, which has disrupted routines and caused a lack of visitor interaction.
“As Merlin’s vet, I have been working with the museum staff to monitor Merlin’s health,” said Dr. Kim Peacock with Bay St Animal Hospital. Margaret, in the statement. “Rehoming Merlin at Safari Niagara will provide a more socially stimulating environment with macaws and other bird species. As an intelligent, social and curious animal, the move will benefit Merlin.”
He will travel to Safari Niagara on April 15.
“Safari Niagara is looking forward to getting to know Merlin and we are excited to give Merlin the opportunity to engage with other macaws and exhibit natural wild behaviors,” said Lana Borg, animal care manager with Safari Niagara.
