In 2004, the Bird Paradise store was closed for two weeks.  Here are records obtained through a public records request that explain why. 

- On July 2, 2004, the Burlington County Health Dept. issues a "N-O-T-I-C-E OF Q-U-A-R-A-N-T-I-N-E"  "due to a reported case of psittacosis in a bird purchased from the Bird Paradise facility."    The notice also stated "...two (2) other cases have associated with the facility and now it appears several other birds may be infected/carriers according to preliminary data."  Bird Paradise is required to either quarantine its inventory of birds or temporarily move them to another location.  Click here for the notice.

- On July 9, 2004, the Burlington County Health Dept. writes to Bird Paradise to confirm the "agreed course of action" regarding the suspected case of psittacosis.  Although the letter explains that "most veterinarians feel that the chlortetracyline (CTC) medicated pelleted feed is the least desirable treatment option," Bird Paradise chooses this option.  Click here for the letter. 

- On July 11, 2004, "Jack" from Bird Paradise faxes a note "Hi Health Dept." explaining that he "went fishing be back Wed for 2nd treatment.  My son John will be there if you need anything."  Read the note here.

- On September 24,  2004, Jack Lance writes to the Burlington County Health Department to complain about a competitor, Todd Marcus Birds Exotic, who has allegedly engaged in "libelous and slanderous behavior."    Apparently Mr. Lance believes this behavior is a matter of state interest because he copies then-governor James E. McGreevy and the health commissioner Clifton R Lacy, MD on the letter, available here. 

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE DEADLY DISEASE OF PSITTACOSIS HERE