‘Fly high sweet Chilli’

A very special and beloved parrot who was an emotional support bird for a woman with epilepsy has sadly passed away in Cork.

Chilli, a 9 year old Pacific parrotlet, was able to count, read and use a special app developed for children with autism to communicate with his owner, Victoria Brook.

Described by Victoria as being “not only handsome and sweet, but also extremely clever”, Chili also enjoyed playing game apps on Victoria’s phone and was part of a study on parrot cognition.

However, last month, Chilli developed breathing problems and required several medicines and special equipment including a nebulizer and a new cage.

Victoria, who recently underwent two surgeries and struggles to find employment due to neurological issues, set up a GoFundMe campaign to raise some money for Chilli’s medical needs.

The campaign quickly surpassed its goal of €1,000 with messages of love and support pouring in for Chilli who Victoria says was “so loved all over the world”.

After a visit to the vet on Tuesday, Victoria shared the news that Chilli had passed away via a video on his official Facebook page where he has over 4,000 followers.

She said: “It’s with great sorrow that I have to tell you that Chilli’s gone. Thank you for all the donations and the love that you’ve shown him. I don’t know what else to say. Bye bye.”

The video received hundreds of comments from people who had met Chilli on his travels around the world to countries like France and Spain, where he was born.

One person wrote: “I am so sorry. Tears are being shed around the world with you. He was such a special little dude - so special.”

Another said: “I am so sorry. Chilli was the smartest and most amazing parrotlet. He definitely couldn’t have asked for a better Mumma too. Fly high sweet Chilli.”

All of the money raised through Chilli’s GoFundMe page will now be donated to a parrot rescue service.