Project Perry

A business that treats the birds fantastic but not as much it's employees. From hidden cameras filming employees and those recordings all labeled with derogatory language, to public defamation of employees. The owner of this business may love birds but not so much his employees.

A few years so, we were in a dilemma of where our birds would live out the rest of their lives. After doing much research and not feeling comfortable with any sanctuaries I looked into, I came upon a large article in a magazine about Project Perry. After contacting Matt, I flew from Dallas to Virginia to visit Matt and the sanctuary. I was immediately awestruck in the sanctuary and Matt’s dedication to assuring the well-being of each bird residing there. Shortly after, we brought our African grey and Macaw there and are so at peace that they will always be well taken care of. Matt sends us pictures of them and updates. There is not another sanctuary like this dedicated to birds. Matt is one-of-a-kind.

Project Perry provides amazing care for their rescued flock. NAVS has had the honor of providing grants to help Project Perry transport neglected birds to permanent sanctuary in Central Virginia. Seeing the progress these amazing animals have made under the care of Matt and the Project Perry staff is truly inspiring. Matt really is a parrot whisperer!

Project Perry "where birds can be birds" is realized the moment you set foot on the property. You will hear the Conures doing what Conures do best. You will think there is a video arcade in the back as all the African Greys beep, buzz, and whistle. It is a beautiful property with the sights and sounds of these wonderful birds flying in their aviaries free from the cages that they used to call a home.
Every bird has a name and a story, some are heartbreaking tales, but they have all found the closest thing to the life they were meant to have. Pictures, videos, and up dates are always on-line so you can follow the progress and lives of the residents. Quality of live is the goal. A healthy diet of fresh fruits and vegetables, along with seeds and nuts, and plenty of fresh air and sunshine this is achieved.

My visit to Project Perry in 2012 was one of the most memorable and touching moments I've ever had. Being a parrot owner and general animal welfare advocate, I was looking for an organization to support, an organization that struck a chord with me and also an organization that I could trust. Project Perry is exactly that.

Upon meeting Matt, the founder, I was immediately struck by the passion he has for what he's doing and the sincerity behind the reasons why he's doing it. While generously taking time out of his very busy day to give my husband and I a tour, he could point out the names of all the different birds, tell the stories of how they got to Project Perry, and even describe a little about their different personalities. It's obvious he has a strong love for these beautiful creatures and just wants to do the right thing and give these birds as good a life as they can have in captivity. The aviaries that have been built to accomplish this are incredible, and the grounds have plenty of room for more to come.

Really, I could go on and on. I highly recommend taking a trip to see Project Perry in person. If you're anything like me, you will leave in awe and inspired by what one person with compassion and a plan can achieve.

Project Perry serves a population that is too often neglected. Their commitment to african grey (and other) parrots is truly inspiring. Supporting this non-profit is well worth it.

It is my honor to boast about one of the most dedicated organizations I have ever had the privilege to be introduced to in my years of volunteer work. I have had direct contact and a wonderful “rescue” experience with two of the volunteers devoted to Project Perry. Matt Smith and Kirah Swanson. This team has more energy and determination than anyone I have ever seen. They went above and beyond the call of duty to help our poor little Garnet and Topaz, two wild caught Greys who knew nothing but the inside of a small cage for twenty years (which unfortunately our rescue here in Wyoming was ill equipped to care for) and Project Perry allowed them to experience the “wild” they were taken from as babies. Right now Kirah is not holding an office with Perry’s but is serving as one of their busy “worker bees.” It is my belief that she, along with Matt are two of the many building blocks that create the foundation of Project Perry and encompass the talent it takes to care for these animals and make this sanctuary a place that will forever warm my heart.

Perry’s is the type of sanctuary that fulfills their commitments no matter what it takes. Even if they bite off a little more than they can chew, they press on with dedication to do what their team has promised to do. There is no place I know of who is more honest and trustworthy than the Perry’s Team.

I have worked with only a few that shares the level of enthusiasm that this sanctuary possesses. Their team is comprised of tireless workers who are not only dependable but affable as well. Their goal is success for the sanctuary and the birds. They are all making their community a better place with the sacrifice of their time and efforts through local volunteerism. Put simply, they are just people who care.

I donated money to help two Timneh Greys get from Wyoming to Project Perry in VA, they went out of their way to help these two birds that came from horrible situations and are now in a free flight aviary at Project Perry! These people are great and they need support for the wonderful things they do for these birds! I hope they win!

Well organised, peoples working with all they heart to help the birds in project perry.
All birds happy there and wery well look after.

These guys are amazing we rescued to African grays and I talked with Matt back and fourth for about 2-3 months he worked very hard to get a grant for them at his aviary always stayed in touch with me and he got the grant and helped get them there mind you we live in Wyoming this is an amazing place and they have hearts of gold thank you so very much for every thing the grays are so happy and free of a small cage now living the best life had to offer thanks Alex Stanley

Project Perry and it's volunteers are a god send. My parrot rescue recently got in two African Greys that were severely neglected. These little greys were kept this way for 20 years. They were caught in the wild and stolen from their home. For some reason they ended up in Wyoming. After being passed from home to home, these greys were finally rescued by CWA (which is our parrot rescue in Wyoming). After months of trying to rehabilitate these angels, we decided to try and find a sanctuary for them. One of my head volunteers found Project Perry. The volunteers at Project Perry raised the money to get the greys from Wyoming to Project Perry. After they arrived they were treated like the angels they are every step of the way. After a throughout examination and vet check, the greys were released into the handicapped free flight sanctuary. The greys are now thriving, beginning to trust, and living out the rest of their days with amazing people and their own kind. The volunteers at Project Perry send us weekly updates with their progress and it's truly an amazing thing to witness. Project Perry is so deserving of any good thing that comes their way and I am forever in their debt. The kindness and compassion of this non profit organization is unmatched and rare.

As a former United Way staff member, nonprofit special events and business manager, I have been consistently impressed with the overall professionalism and dedication of the staff and volunteers of Project Perry. This is not something that is found in most rescue operations that I have encountered.

As a parrot owner and familiar with the needs of abandoned and neglected birds, the care shown to the "residents" has proven to be unparalleled. The facilities are top-notch for the budgeting that the organization has.

The highest regard I could possible give Project Perry is to say that I would hope that my flock would find themselves in this place after I die should my family not be able to care for them.

Project Perry IS one of the GREAT Nonprofits!

Project Perry will use your donation faithfully and well to serve its feathered residents. It's a beautiful, hidden sanctuary, lovingly tended by the staff. Well worth supporting.

My husband and I have been researching sanctuaries for our two birds for quite awhile and had very little confidence in them until I came across Project Perry. I flew out there in June to meet Matt and was stunned at the incredible sanctuary that Matt has created. I knew that this was truly the only place that would give our birds the best life for the rest of their years. Matt is truly the "bird whisperer" and a wonderful and honest person. Fortunately, we were able to donate a generous sum to help complete the second grey aviary. Two weeks ago, we brought our birds to the sanctuary and Matt has kept us updated with photos and comments. We know without a doubt that Archie and Elvis are truly happy and will live the rest of their lives well taken care of.

Project Perry does amazing work for parrots, unlike any other rescue I've encountered. Their primary mission is to rehabilitate, with adoption or rehoming being the second goal. If a bird is deemed happier in one of their incredible aviaries, they have a forever home there with a flock of other birds with species appropriate toys, plants, and other stimuli. I am also very impressed with their program to keep former pet parrots in their aviaries after the parrot guardian has passed. This means a great deal to me as I know people who have stipulated in their will their parrot be put down because they do not trust anyone to give the level of care the parrot deserves after the person passes. I hope to see this rescue continue to grow and thrive.

I flew to Project Perry May 2013 to create a mosaic Parrot wall for the donors for an aviary fundraiser for handicapped African Greys. I knew I would love it there...but it surpassed all expectations and hands down is one of the most beautiful creations I have ever witnessed in my life. Matt Smith has created a paradise, not just a sanctuary. I LOVE this place beyond measure...

There are no words the describe this Parrot Rescue. Regardless of what I could say, it would never be enough. It's a life changing experience, it opens your eyes, the founder is amazing. He is rare, he is good, he is simply wonderful. He's educated. He's grounded. He will not give up. He is selfless and puts his birds before anything and anyone else. You can hear it in his voice, you can see it in his eyes, and it reflects in his work. Visit, pay attention, and you will see.

Project Perry is a special place for rescued parrots that have been abused in "parrot mills", owners that no longer want them and people that do not have a choice but to give them up due to health reasons, financial, etc. I personally went to visit this wonderful facility to witness myself the love and care the staff and volunteers give to these remarkable creatures! Myself being a parrot owner, it takes a good amount of time to care and work with these birds and everyone is truly patient and caring. I cannot say enough great things about Matt and his staff!

I have donated to and been part of helping 2 African grey parrots get to project Perry. I am very active in the rescue world, primarily for birds and for dogs. I have to rate Project Perry in the top 3 of all rescue/sanctuaries.
The two Greys that I helped get there were kept by a hoarder for many years. fearful and neglected. They had so little and were merely surviving. They were never going to bond with humans ands had likely been trapped in the wild many years before.
project Perry has given them a beautiful life with trees, flight, and a flock. I have tears as I write this. Thank God they are living again :-)

I found this sanctuary impeccable. Very impressed with the building of the flights. They provide care, compassion, and a lifelong of happiness with the free flight aviaries for the unwanted, abused, and neglected parrots. It is wonderful to see them interact with their own kind as mother nature intended!

Project Perry provides a desperately needed service for those unfortunate parrots who have been neglected or abused. From a modest beginning in a studio apartment to the expansion of 6 indoor/outdoor aviaries in a country environment in less than 6 years attests to the dedication of Matt Smith, the Director, and his volunteer staff. As contributions and national recognition increase, Project Perry continues to expand providing a safe haven for more birds. This is a project worthy of continued support.

Beautiful property with growth possibilities. A home for birds that might have outlived their owners. Any one that has owned a bird knows how much they can change your life. My bird is everything to me, and if something should happen to me I would be able to know that my bird would live out a happy life at Project Perry.

The aviaries that are built at Project Perry are incredible! To give a place to wild caught and older breeder birds to live out the rest of their lives in a safe habitat similar to where they would live in the wild, is a much needed and completely selfless project! Great job!

I first found Project Perry on line. The more I read about their philosophy and goals, the more I liked what they are doing. Although I am located in central NY, an opportunity brought me to northern Virginia and Matt graciously accepted my request to visit and actually see their operations. To say I was impressed is an understatement. From the moment I stepped out of my car, it was clear this was a well organized, well structured and supported operation which truly focuses on providing a kind and caring environment for all their charges. Their efforts have inspired me to begin plans to create a similar opportunity for the rescue and rehabilitation of companion birds here in Central NY. We may not ever be as successful as Project Perry, but we are working to achieve their standards of excellence and compassion.

Project Perry is a wonderful sanctuary for birds -- from parakeets to McCaws. My sister needed to find a home for a parkeet family of five. She was able to get them in to Project Perry. When we went to deliver the birds we found the sanctuary to be well cared for. The birds had large indoor/outdoor aviaries, everything was clean, plenty of food and water. The smaller birds got their own enclosure. There is plenty of mental stimulation for the birds. It's an amazing place and I'm glad it exists.

Project Perry provides a caring environment for exotic birds, and does it with a small staff and dedicated volunteers. The commitment to neglected, abused and surrendered birds is much greater than I expected to find when I began volunteering. It is all about the birds with Matt and his staff.

I adopted from Project Perry and they are an inspiration to everyone that cares about our feathered friends, They are, in my opinion the very best exotic bird rescue not only in the state but on the East Coast and because of this I always recommend them for anyone in need of help with birds

Project Perry is a unique and amazing sanctuary. I wish more parrots were treated so kindly. It is where I hope mine may go after I have perished from this life.

Project Perry is the most innovative and well-managed parrot sanctuary in the US. I am a proud donor and supporter. I have known Matt Smith, the Executive Director, for many years and have observed his tenacious, intelligent and steadfast efforts on behalf of parrots continue to gain momentum. He has brought attention to the plight of parrots throughout the US and the world while maintaining a state-of-the-art sanctuary with free flight aviaries built to mimic natural conditions for parrots, The volunteers at Project Perry are equally dedicated and the success of the residents program as well as the adoption program are the result of a cooperative effort of many wonderful people. The attention and care given to each bird is evident in the many stories posted on the website, included in the newsletter and garnered in conversation with others. There are a handful of remarkable parrot sanctuaries in the US, but if I have to choose one, I will choose Project Perry for the reasons already stated.

For 20 years my Timneh parrot Mr. McGoo accompanied me on State Department assignments in Africa, Europe, and the U.S. He was a faithful companion whose cheery presence made every new dwelling feel immediately like home. When the time came that I could no longer keep McGoo, I scoured the Internet for a facility where he would receive excellent care for the rest of his life. I couldn’t believe my eyes when I saw the Project Perry website, and to find that the sanctuary was located in Central Virginia, only two hours from my home, was truly miraculous. After a couple of visits and long talks with Matt Smith, the director, I decided to entrust my dear friend to Matt's care under the “Lifetime of Care” program, and I have never regretted it. "Gooey" has lived at the sanctuary for almost two years now. He is a happy and healthy member of the exuberant flock of gray parrots who occupy the main aviary, a 3,600-foot enclosure designed and built by Matt and chock full of plants and vines that mimic the birds’ natural habitat. There is even a fountain in the shape of a small waterfall, which was donated by a generous supporter and is where the parrots often enjoy a refreshing drink or a bath. During my frequent visits I have seen how my bird and others who have joined the flock after him have thrived, and I have witnessed the extraordinary dedication of Matt and his small team of volunteers as they work to rescue abused parrots, rehome them when possible, and to offer loving perpetual care for those who remain. I am here to tell you that Project Perry is an organization, and an endeavor, that is truly worthy of support.

Project Perry is a wonderful organization that truly puts our feathered friends first. The cleanliness, diets, and special care for all is provided and much much more. I've personally volunteered at a few sanctuaries and none come close to what this one has to offer. While volunteering an African Grey named JoJo adopted me and i am lucky to have her in our family. Thank you and keep up the good work!

When I think of Project Perry I think “Gold Standard.” That describes the level of care the birds receive as well as the level of commitment and devotion of Matt Smith, executive director, the staff, and volunteers. Matt makes sure that not only the physical needs of the birds are met but the emotional needs as well. Further, the community outreach and education has filled a long existing void of ignorance about keeping exotic birds as companions. On behalf of all these birds, I thank heaven for Matt Smith, and Project Perry.

Project Perry is an amazing organization. Several years ago, we learned through the grapevine of a wonderful African Grey parrot who was in a tough situation and needed a new home. We took him in rather spontaneously; however, we quickly realized we were in over our heads and that we couldn't keep him--we hadn't really wanted to add a parrot to our household full of cats and things really weren't working out very well for him or for us. We searched the Internet and found several parrot adoption and rescue organizations in our area (Pennsylvania), but then we also read about Project Perry. They stood out above and beyond all of the rest, so we put them at the top of our list. After several emails and a visit down to Virginia to check the place out, we fell in love with Project Perry! Their facility is beautiful--very clean, cheerful, and open. The birds that stay in the house spend the majority of their time out of their cages, and there are also several large aviaries to allow free flight. They feed fresh fruits and vegetables, and the place is absolutely spotless. The staff is cheerful and clearly love to be there. It is truly a first-class sanctuary for these amazing creatures. We both knew immediately that this was the place for our African Grey, and they took him in without reservation. They immediately made us feel welcome and at home. They were nonjudgemental and understanding of our inability to keep this parrot, and they promised us that they would do everything in their power to find him an excellent home--and they did! This beautiful parrot was adopted and is happily living in a wonderful home with another parrot (also adopted from Project Perry). Director Matt Smith and his staff are extremely knowledgeable about not just what it takes to keep these exotic and social animals healthy but also what it takes to make their very long lives worth living for them. The organization also works to stop bird mills and illegal transport of parrots and to educate the public about all of the issues that parrots and other exotic birds face. I can honestly say that I have absolute trust and faith in this organization as a safe haven for animals. I recommend them without reservation. Thank you, Project Perry.

My African Greys saw pictures of Matt's grey aviary and started to pack. This is truly the most natural and spacious environment I have ever seen provided for this ever increasing species of often abused and neglected parrots. His undaunted wilingness to save so many is only surpassed by the need for it. Thanks Matt and staff for such an unselfish gift to the winged wild creatures that someone thought would be a good idea to cage.

I cannot imagine a bird getting any better can than the birds at Project Perry do. Matt and his volunteers not only understand birds, but each individual bird that comes to them. The facility is wonderful- birds are allowed to be birds here.

The high standards of care at Project Perry exceeded my expectations when I first visited a few years back, and it's only gotten better! Matt and all of the volunteers work hard to give the parrots there the best life possible. From the tiniest finch to the largest macaw, every bird that comes to the sanctuary is treated with the utmost care. I can't say enough about the amazing work going on at Project Perry.

No one is more dedicated to enriching the lives of abused parrots than Matt Smith. His tireless efforts give last-chance parrots an opportunity to live out their lives among their own kind, with some semblance of the life they were really born to live.

It's wonderful to know that, at last, some abused birds have good food, clean water, room to spread their wings and companions to play with.

Thanks Matt.

Matt is a huge parrott lover and it shows with his home and care of these wonderful birds. When he first started out he kept the majority of birds in his home-even his bedroom. As he grew he was able to design and build a beautiful African Grey enclosure and has plans for more. He is such a dedicated bird lover. My two birds are in my will to him. That is how much I trust and admire him. This bird sanctuary is one of the best within miles. He is always in need of help, both as volunteers and with contributions.

Project Perry is an amazing organization doing incredible work. The director, Matt Smith, is dedicated and compassionate -- he is making a difference in the lives of parrots.

Project Perry is an amazing sanctuary and rescue program for all types of parrots, large and small. I first learned about Matt Smith and Project Perry when I was trying to find a new home for my daughter's cockatiel. After a year of behavior modification, environmental modification, and medical treatments I knew I had to find a good home for Gabby in order to stop her chronic egg-laying.

I contacted Matt who generously invited me to visit the sanctuary. I was impressed by the location, the care, and the love shown by Matt and his volunteers. After months of thought I placed Gabby in the cockatiel aviary, a spacious indoor/outdoor facility. Matt was genuinely reassuring as I worked through my guilt at finding her a new home. But when I visited months later I knew I had made the right decision. Gabby had not laid one egg, was interacting with other cockatiels, flying freely, and enjoying wonderful food and daily interaction with Matt and volunteers.

When I last visited she flew to my shoulder and let me scritch her neck. Several other tame tiels came to greet me also. I now am a sponsor of the tiel flock. Even though I live four hours away I am proud to be associated with such a great organization.

My husband, Mike and I have always been interested in having a parrot. About 4 years ago we heard on the news about a huge rescue of birds in Orange County,VA. and started doing some research and found Project Perry which was called in to do the rescue. We became volunteers and learned so much from Matt and the other volunteers that we never knew about birds and owning one. We have watched and helped it grow into a wonderful place for homeless, abused, and neglected birds. I have never seen a more dedicated person to something than Matt Smith, the founder of Project Perry Parrot Rescue Sanctuary. Thanks, Matt!

I found the sanctuary about 5 yrs ago and have watched it grow and have learned so much more then I would have ever believed possible, I found the founder of Project Perry to be one of the most dedicated people I have ever know from the very first day it has always been all about what is best for the birds,they get fresh food food and water daily they are given the opportunity to fly and be cage free they get to feel the sunshine and many 0f these birds never were given the chance until Matt came into their lifes.This is a organization that cares for the birds but also takes a large role in educating the general public to the plight of parrots, with education cames the ability for change for the better.This is a top notch non profit group that truly cares about the birds.

Project Perry is a sanctuary that is totally devoted to the well-being of every bird in its care. Birds are given access to fresh air, clean water, healthy food, and as natural an environment that they can get in captivity. The Directors, staff, and volunteers of Project Perry have dedicated themselves to giving birds a permanent home at the sanctuary, or the opportunity to be adopted into a new home. Matt advocates tirelessly for the parrots, and is one of the most respected voices in the avian welfare community

Project Perry is one of the most ethical and well-run parrot rescue organizations in the country. This is a well-connected organization working in cooperation with other animal and parrot welfare agencies such as HSUS, The Avian Welfare Coalition and Foster Parrots, Ltd. Project Perry features a large indoor/outdoor African Grey Aviary that is an exemplary environment for Greys, and perhaps the best example of an indoor/outdoor environment for captive/rescued birds in the U.S. This is a well-organized, model rescue organization.

I believe that Project Perry demonstrates what a great parrot Sanctuary can be.
Birds are encouraged to be as natural as possible in a captive setting.

From the large planted outdoor aviaries, to the cage free indoor settings; birds that may have never known such freedoms as flight, sunshine & the security of having a flock, thrive here.

I have known Matt and Project Perry since its beginnings. No one cares more and sacrifices more for the well being of these abused birds. He is not content with what the organization is doing now but has a great vision of what could be done in the future with more support.

I found Project Perry when I was looking to adopt a bird nearly 5 years ago. I learned so much more than could have ever been expected. Matt Smith has strong morals and never waivers in his constant advocacy for parrots. Not only is the quality of care at the sanctuary top-notch, but Matt and all other members of the Project Perry group are always striving to make life in captivity better for these wild animals.

Project Perry is a great organization which helps neglected, abused birds. Matt Smith is wonderful and obviously cares for birds tremendously. This is my favorite charity, as I have seen first-hand how caring a place Project Perry is.

I'm director of the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries.

Matt Smith, the founder and Executive Director of Project Perry, the Central Virginia Parrot Sanctuary, is one of the outstanding leaders in the sanctuary field. As a colleague noted, "One of the ways that Matt is exceptional is that he recognizes the big picture beyond the walls of his facility and he’s committed to being proactive in stopping birds from entering the pet trade and unprepared homes. He has investigated bird mills and has contacted large, national groups, like HSUS, in an effort to get them more involved in parrot issues."

Parrots: In terms of sheer numbers, their intelligence, their rich emotional lives, and their longevity, they are the most serious captive wildlife problem in the US. Most are kept in isolation, despite the fact that they are flock animals with rich social lives and strong bonds and almost never alone or outside calling range of another flock member, and most are deprived of their most basic mode of locomotion: flight. Kept in cages far too small with very little enrichment.

Matt is actively engaged in changing this. His sanctuary features spacious and interesting aviaries, where captive birds can full express their natural behavior while living with others of their own kind. Anyone who has seen a parrot in one of these aviaries instantly understands how needlessly cruel the traditional bird cage is.

Add to this the fact that Matt is a true executive director, with expertise in nonprofit management and an eager willingness to learn more every day.