Avian Conservation Institute
Humble Beginnings
From the moment Yvonne Patterson-Burbach cradled her first parakeet at the age of two, her life became intertwined with the avian world. Growing up, her love for nature and birds only deepened. During college, while working as a horticulturist, Yvonne cared for an unusual trio: Snowball, a wild-caught Moluccan cockatoo who still lives with her today, a majestic macaw, and an Amazon parrot that serenaded visitors with opera. Their presence amidst the acres of flowers became an unexpected attraction—people were drawn not only to the beauty of the gardens but to the intelligence and personality of these incredible birds.
It was then that Yvonne had a revelation: these birds had a story to tell, and she would be their voice. This passion gave birth to Wings of Love, a sanctuary dedicated to education, conservation, and the welfare of parrots.
A Mission Takes Flight
As Wings of Love grew, so did Yvonne’s ability to inspire, educate, and entertain. With a team that included a CSI policeman, an educator, and a professional trainer, she developed interactive bird shows that captivated audiences. Whether it was Swoop, the silent and powerful eagle-owl, gliding over an awe-struck crowd, or parrots performing uncanny impressions and incredible tricks, Yvonne had found a way to bridge the gap between humans and the avian world.
But entertainment was just the beginning. Yvonne recognized the urgent need for avian conservation and responsible bird ownership education. Too many parrots were abandoned or improperly cared for due to misunderstandings about their needs. She knew she had to do more—not just rescue birds, but educate the people who loved them.
Why This Mission is Personal to Me
My journey into the world of parrots began in an unexpected way—through a small, vibrant green-cheeked conure named Avi (short for Avocado). During the COVID-19 pandemic, as a homebound teacher, I took Avi in to help one of my students who could no longer care for him. What started as an act of kindness turned into a deep love for parrots. Avi brought laughter, companionship, and a sense of wonder into my life.
But my lack of knowledge at the time led to a devastating mistake—Avi was critically injured while trying to interact with a dog. Despite my efforts to save him, he passed away in my hands. It was a heartbreaking loss that could have been prevented with better education and awareness.
That pain fueled my determination to ensure that no other bird or bird owner has to go through what I did. I wanted to learn, connect, and do more for these incredible creatures.
Finding My Purpose: Beak N Wings & Meeting Yvonne
Still grieving Avi, I searched for ways to honor his memory. That’s when I discovered Beak N Wings, a parrot rescue in Lenexa, Kansas. Beak N Wings is an incredible organization dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming parrots in need. I became actively involved, learning everything I could about proper parrot care, training, and enrichment. Through Beak N Wings, I met amazing people who shared my passion for these birds, but one person, in particular, changed my life—Yvonne Patterson-Burbach.
Yvonne, lovingly known as "The Bird Lady," has dedicated her life to avian conservation, education, and performance. When I first visited her and saw her birds, I was in awe. Imagine experiencing the silent flight of an eagle-owl soaring over your head, the unbelievable tricks of trained parrots, and the hilarious imitations of birds who talk, sing, and dance—all while learning about their natural behaviors and the conservation efforts needed to protect them.
Yvonne’s vision goes beyond performances. She has a dream of creating a sanctuary and learning center—a place where rescued parrots can live their fullest, most natural lives and where people can learn to care for and appreciate them in a hands-on, immersive way. I knew immediately that I wanted to be part of making this dream a reality.
Lets Build the Wings of Hope Sanctuary and Learning Center
The Next Evolution: A Sanctuary & Learning Center
Now, in partnership with the Avian Conservation Institute, Yvonne’s vision is expanding. Together, they are working to create the Wings of Love Sanctuary & Learning Center, a first-of-its-kind facility that will serve as both a haven for rescued parrots and an educational hub where people can learn about birds in their most natural environment.
What will the sanctuary provide?
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A safe, naturalistic home for elderly, disabled, and rescued parrots.
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A space where birds can thrive in spacious, enriched habitats, rather than cages.
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A hands-on educational center where the public can engage in interactive learning experiences.
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Programs for parrot owners to learn best practices, preventing future rescues.
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School programs and community workshops to instill conservation values in the next generation.
Through in-person and online training programs, the Avian Conservation Institute is helping Yvonne turn her years of knowledge into a curriculum that will teach parrot owners, future conservationists, and the general public about the responsibilities of bird ownership, habitat preservation, and the critical role parrots play in the ecosystem.
Empowering the Next Generation
The Wings of Love Sanctuary & Learning Center isn’t just about saving birds—it’s about shaping the future of avian conservation. Through this initiative, Yvonne and the Avian Conservation Institute are ensuring that:
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Parrots receive the care they deserve.
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The public can experience and appreciate the natural behaviors of these birds.
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A new generation is inspired to take action in conservation efforts.
With your support, we can give these magnificent creatures a second chance and empower people with the knowledge to protect them for generations to come.
How You Can Help
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Donate to help build the sanctuary and fund conservation programs.
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Sponsor a parrot and be a part of their lifelong care.
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Volunteer to assist with education, bird care, or community outreach.
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Spread the word about responsible bird ownership and conservation efforts.
Join us in making Yvonne & Renee`s dream a reality—one feathered friend at a time.
🌍 Together, we can give wings to hope, love, and conservation.
📍 Learn more & get involved:
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Call Us Today! (816) 645-3601
Would you like any additional details, such as a fundraising plan or an outreach strategy? Contact us!
Build these beauties a sanctuary
Schedule a tour and meet Yvonne and the flock
Let’s Work Together
Want to volunteer, donate or help us build the sanctuary? Please contact us below.