Can you imagine rescuing an animal and having it adopt your family in return? This is exactly what happened to a woman with a totí named Roger.
A user known as cubitabella09 on TikTok posted a humorous video where she offers the bird a choice between food and water. The totí, through its squawks, rejects the food and opts for the precious liquid instead.
“Do you want food?” the woman asks while holding a syringe filled with a yellow substance. The bird remains uninterested.
However, when she shows another syringe, this time transparent because it contains water, the bird emits a squawk indicating its preference.
“Are you thirsty?” the woman says as she obliges Roger’s wish.
The scene repeats several times, leaving no doubt that the totí knows exactly what it wants.
In another part of the video, the woman is seen walking with Roger perched on her shoulder.
“Look at this, I’ve got myself quite an unexpected companion,” she said.
“He doesn’t want to leave,” the woman remarked, explaining that she found the bird after it fell from its nest.
“I fed him, now he’s grown, and he doesn’t want to fly away,” she added, concluding with a question: “What do you all think of this?”
Recently, a blue-eyed goat named Pepe has won the hearts of hundreds of TikTok users by becoming the inseparable companion of a Cuban man residing in Florida, United States.
His owner, a young man with a food business who has not lost his rural spirit and great love for animals, fulfilled his dream by having Pepe: “This is my favorite animal. Since I was born, this has been my life, having a goat.”
Frequently Asked Questions about Rescuing Animals in Cuba
Here are some common questions and answers regarding the phenomenon of rescuing animals in Cuba, inspired by the story of Roger the totí and Pepe the goat.
How common is it to rescue wild animals in Cuba?
While it's not very common, there are instances where individuals rescue wild animals, especially if they are in distress or injured.
What should you do if you find an injured bird in Cuba?
If you find an injured bird, it’s best to contact local animal rescue organizations or veterinarians who can provide appropriate care and rehabilitation.
Can rescued animals legally become pets in Cuba?
The legality of keeping rescued wild animals as pets varies and it is important to check local regulations. In many cases, it’s encouraged to rehabilitate and release them back into the wild.