The unfortunate news of the passing of Charlie Bird of Bloomington must be shared with the
community.
Charlie’s handler, JoJo Porowski, reports that Charlie passed away at home on
October 4, 2023, in the morning hours, at the age of 41.
JoJo rescued Charlie, a green-winged macaw, from a distressing situation in 2004. Charlie was
unhealthy and had begun plucking his feathers. JoJo, an animal lover at heart, stepped in to give
Charlie a better life. It is tough to imagine an animal with a better life than Charlie during his
time with JoJo.
JoJo discovered that Charlie was a social bird and enjoyed riding around town with him on his
bicycle. Charlie, something of a local legend, became a staple of the Bloomington community
for two decades at the Farmer’s Market, Lotus Festival, Morgenstern’s, Dunn Meadow, IU
football tailgating, and the many parks and lakes in the area. Yes, Charlie enjoyed
paddleboarding too.
JoJo extends his sincerest thanks to the people and businesses of Bloomington for supporting
Charlie throughout his life. A few years ago, when Charlie fell ill and needed medical care and
medicine, many of you stepped up to make donations and buy Charlie’s book so he could
continue as a fixture in the Bloomington community. Also, thanks to JoJo’s family and friends
who helped care for Charlie and share his story around town, as none of this was possible
without their support. Charlie’s greatest talent was making people smile from nursing homes to
elementary schools and local events to random sightings around town. He will certainly be
missed.
We ask that you respect JoJo’s privacy as he processes the loss of his beloved friend. If you
would like to share stories about Charlie or send photos you have taken with Charlie for JoJo to
see, please send those to [email protected] and know that it will be greatly
appreciated. All of the stories and photos will be put together for JoJo to remember the positive
impact of Charlie Bird of Bloomington.
If anyone feels so inclined, donations can be made to The Warehouse in Charlie Bird’s memory.
JoJo, a retired carpenter, works at the Warehouse weekly to keep the space in good working
order for the community, and Charlie was always welcome and taken care of while there. Link:
https://btownwarehouse.networkforgood.com/projects/74735-donate
