Visitors to Bushy Park did a double take at the weekend when they spotted an unusual species of bird life in the Woodland Gardens on Sunday (April 16).

The 13-year-old green-winged macaw called Sara arrived perched on the shoulder of her Hampton-based owner who explained his colourful pet is inclined to peck away at his balding hair.

A group of photographers who arrived at about the same time armed with their long lenses had a surprise subject and clicked away as the parrot happily posed and preened for photos.

Sara's owner sees the funny side as she pecks away at his head

According to Sara's owner, she could live up to 100 years and although a native of South Africa, she is receiving regular flying lessons every Sunday - to train her to fly a short distance and return. 

Sara must avoid foods like avocado, mushrooms, onions and tomatoes because of toxins but she loves tucking into a pizza which was delivered today by the temporary kitchen at the Pheasantry, due to reopen later this month.