Dr. Whitney Collins checks up on Sky.
(Special Advertising Feature) — Over the past 65 years, care has been at the heart of everything that we do at the Hyatt. As our world evolves and new challenges emerge, we have advanced our global Environmental, Social and Governance strategy through a World of Care.
Deeply embedded across all areas of our business, World of Care brings Hyatt’s purpose of care to life. Our goals, particularly in the areas of social and environmental sustainability, were defined by understanding what is important to our colleagues, guests, customers, owners, investors and communities.
One example of Hyatt Regency Saipan’s care is the story of its long-time mascot: a 35-year-old Macaw named Sky.
Sky joined the Hyatt Regency Saipan family about 30 years ago and has created positive memories while being photographed by countless guests over the years.
During the global pandemic, Sky’s partner unfortunately passed away, leaving Sky in solitude for nearly two years. While the Hyatt team took very good care of Sky throughout the time, Hyatt no longer supports any form of tourism activity or entertainment that infringes on the well-being of any animal.
Since Saipan does not have a veterinarian, zoologist or a reputable species-specific expert who can develop and maintain animal welfare plans in consultation with third-party experts, Hyatt Regency Saipan has decided to relocate Sky to Hyatt Regency Guam. The goal is to provide a peaceful yet interactive retirement in the company of other Macaws in Guam. Macaws have a life span of up to 50 years and Hyatt Regency Guam partners with a licensed zookeeping company which will be able to care of Sky in an advanced environment.
In early 2023, the management of Hyatt Regency Saipan thoroughly assessed all mandatory legal fulfillments to execute complex relocation logistics.
Hyatt Regency Saipan took the initiative to coordinate the kick off with Saipan Humane Society led by Lauren Cabrera. In June 2023, Hyatt seized the opportunity to invite Dr. Whitney Collins, a veterinarian and bird specialist from Guam. During her visit, Sky received a comprehensive health screening, and was certified to be in perfect health.
In November, Dr. Mariana Turner of the Guam Department of Agriculture provided the necessary requirements for Sky’s travel. One of them included quarantine in a pre-approved facility in both destinations for several days. Additionally, a health certificate was signed by a licensed veterinarian prior to any travel.
In early 2024, the dedicated team at Hyatt Regency Saipan left no stone unturned in their restless efforts to provide Sky with a life that he truly deserves. The team, headed by General Manager Simon Graf, Marketing & Communications Manager Bea O’Malley with the support of all division heads, held weekly strategy meetings to update each other on the long list of requirements and time lines. Their unwavering commitment and dedication towards the goal guaranteed that Sky’s needs were met.
A Hyatt guest room was vacated and equipped with a multitude of quarantine demands to allow subsequent interim health checks and final approvals.
Finally on March 19, 2024 at 10:30 a.m., Sky boarded a Star Marianas plane to Guam, where he then started his second leg of quarantine at AMC Petlodge until Sky will arrive to his final caretaker at Hyatt Regency Guam.
