Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

Ripley the Toucan: Bird that behaves just like a lap dog

The tropical bird has been receiving hundreds of thousands of views online for her odd antics

Charlie Atkin
Wednesday 03 February 2016 18:02 GMT
Comments
The Toucan that behaves just like a lap dog

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Who needs a lapdog when you can have a toucan.

That's what some animal-lovers must be thinking after video emerged online of one such tropical bird being all too willing to be petted, stroked and cuddled like any pooch.

Ripley the Toucan can be seen sitting between her owner's legs as he works at his desk, enjoying a good tickle behind the ears and stroke of the head.

(Facebook / Ripley The Toucan)

Other videos on social media pages dedicated to the bird show her playing catch, taking a bath and even preening her owner as he drives.

Toucans and their colourful bills are more commonly found in the tropical climates of Central and South America. That is when they're not playing major roles in a Disney franchise.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in