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Parakeet's Submarine Adventure Goes Viral, Sparks Debate

Human interestHuman interest
Key Points
  • Bebe the parakeet snorkeled in a custom-built submarine for 15 minutes at three feet deep
  • The homemade submarine had safety features like oxygen monitoring and was tested beforehand
  • Reactions were divided with PETA criticizing the stunt while others defended it as authentic

Bebe's owner, Steven Lawyer, created a custom-made, bird-sized submarine that provided a steady stream of oxygen. The submarine was a homemade contraption, extensively tested before Bebe used it, made from a food-grade safe plastic container equipped with a 3000PSI paintball air cylinder filled with heavily-filtered air. It featured a needle valve to control air flow, a one-way outflow valve for air bubbles, lead weights for buoyancy, and an oxygen meter to monitor conditions, though specific safety certifications or veterinary approvals have not been disclosed.

According to Daily Mail - Science & Tech, Steven Lawyer described that Bebe only went down about three feet, like you see in the video, and was only in this for about 15 minutes. The owner also noted that Bebe was fed and watered before he went in, went in willingly, and likes doing these kinds of adventurous things with them, adding that he was not stressed – they know what their bird looks like when he's stressed. After the adventure, Bebe was let out and spent time flying over the waves before returning to shore, but the long-term health effects, if any, on Bebe from this underwater adventure remain unknown.

It is completely authentic.

Steven Lawyer, Bebe's owner

Reactions have been mixed, with PETA criticizing the stunt, saying the owner forced the bird underwater in a tiny container for views. Some people criticized the stunt, arguing it was irresponsible and the parrot had no business underwater. However, some people defended the stunt, saying Bebe is an adventurous bird and enjoys such activities.

According to Daily Mail - Science & Tech, Steven Lawyer made a separate video insisting the clip was not made by AI and was completely authentic, though the full context of Bebe's adventurous behavior, such as other activities he regularly engages in, and legal or regulatory considerations in the owner's location are unclear.

This is what you saw him in in the video – this is the 'Bebesphere'.

Steven Lawyer, Bebe's owner

Bebe only went down about three feet, like you see in the video. He was only in this for about 15 minutes.

Steven Lawyer, Bebe's owner

He was fed and watered before he went in. He went in willingly. He likes doing these kinds of adventurous things with us. He was not stressed – we know what our bird looks like when he's stressed.

Steven Lawyer, Bebe's owner
Sourced
The Independent - MainDaily Mail - Science & Tech
2 publications
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