Larry 'Bird' Refused Service

Vicky Becker, a Woodland Hills resident, and her friend wanted to have lunch at Marmalade Cafe on Thursday but were refused service. Why? Becker wanted to include her other companion, Larry Bird, an eclectus parrot.

"I tried to go into [the restaurant] and sit outside but they wouldn't allow it ... only service animals," Becker said, as Larry sat upon her shoulder.

Becker adopted the 14-year-old bird from Calistoga.

"He's a feather-plucker, something he does when he's nervous," she said. "He wasn't treated so well where he came from."

Becker explained that Larry, who goes with her almost everywhere, is a cognative bird that thinks before it speaks.

When asked if Larry could say a few words for Patch, Becker said, "He's got a really big vocabulary, but he only speaks when he wants to." she said.

The trio, who left in search of a nearby eatery, were later spotted dining outside at Le Pain Quotidien, parrot and all.