parrot, who escaped while being looked after by "parrot-sitters''.

Wilbur, an African Grey Conga, flew to freedom on Friday after the door of his cage was accidentally left open at his temporary home in an apartment at Mermaid Beach Club.

It was the ultimate nightmare for businessman Mr. Beau Evans and his wife, Gayle, who were caring for Wilbur while his owner, Mr. Dusty Hind, was off the Island.

The Evans' have been getting up at six each morning to whistle in the foliage around Mermaid Beach, trying to entice the bird from its hideaway with his favourite food, corn-on-the-cob, and a bag of nuts.

They're desperate to find him before Mr. Hind -- who does not know yet that the parrot is missing -- returns to Bermuda today. But hopes were quickly fading last night.

"We're doing everything we can,'' said Mrs. Evans. "We've been getting up early and staying out late but we've had no luck so far.'' They thought their luck was in at one stage when they spotted a parrot 30-feet up a tree, but it turned out not to be Wilbur and, in any event, flew away before it could be caught.

There are doubts as to how long the parrot can last in the wild since he is tame and not used to fending for himself.

"Our biggest fear is that he might eat something which could poison him,'' said Mrs. Evans. He could also fall prey to other animals.

Wilbur is 12 inches tall, with colourings from light to medium grey and a very short bright red tail. The bird can speak its name and say "hello''.

Anyone who sees him is asked to call 236-5031.