The Wild Parrots of Telegraph Hill is
suitable for middle to senior secondary students. It documents the true story
about a flock of South American parrots living in San Francisco and the
relationship that develops between them and the eccentric Mark Bittner who feeds
them and studies their behaviour over a period of ten years.
Mark Bittner
is a homeless street musician who inadvertently becomes something of an expert
on birds as he consults local birders, feeds and studies the cherry-headed
conures that had begun to breed in the wilds of the city. Bittner falls in with
the flock as he searches for meaning in his life, unaware that the wild parrots
will bring him everything he needs.
The film could serve as a springboard to
discussion on lifestyles, relationships and what we learn from animals. It could
also be used to encourage discussion on native and introduced species, wild and
domesticated animals and trade in wildlife.
Curriculum Links:
This
study guide is suitable for teachers of middle to senior secondary students
in:
• English
• Science (Biological Sciences)
• Media Studies