We spoke to Pitt’s real life mascot, Sammy the Parrot
They have a very interesting back story
Sammy the parrot is pretty well known around Pittsburgh. He and his owner Gary can be found at almost any big Pittsburgh event. The two tour Pittsburgh on Gary’s bike taking pictures with anyone who asks, and make frequent appearances at sporting events like Pirates or Panthers games. Gary manages a Facebook account for Sammy on which he posts photos of Sammy and his new friends. We got the scoop on how Sammy became such a Pitt hit.
Sammy on his bike
How long have you lived in Pittsburgh?
How long have you been attending Pittsburgh events with Sammy, and why did you start?
Four years ago. When I lived in Florida I would ride my bike to the beach. One day when I was going to leave, Sammy climbed up onto the bike’s handlebars. I wondered if it would be ok to ride with him. I would ride around and people would ask to take their picture with him – I just wanted him to get fresh air.
When and why did you decide to start Sammy’s Facebook account?
My sister is the one that brought it up. I was showing her pictures, and one of them said why don’t you start a Facebook. I was hesitant. I was sending my family all the pictures of what I’m doing with Sammy on the weekends. She started it for me and had me come up with a name.
How many people per day/ week/ total have taken pictures with Sammy?
Saturday and Sunday can be up to 100 – 40-50 per day. A sports game can also make it get up to 100. He likes women and children by doesn’t love men. A regular day would be about 30. A Pirate game would be 30-40 kids. A kid will hold the bird and a line will form!
Gary helping a little girl hold Sammy for a picture
What’s the most popular event for Sammy?
What’s the best part about touring with Sammy?
I don’t want any money. It’s my pleasure. I just want to spread joy. It’s enjoyment for me to see a kid say, ‘You made my day.’ I like to make people happy. There’s too much anger and mean people in the world.
Does Sammy do any cool tricks?
He roller skates and rides the bike with me.
Sammy and Gary
As a Pittsburgh native we must ask, what are your favorite pizza places?
Campitis and Betos.
Be sure to check out Sammy’s Facebook page and stay on the look out for him and Gary around Pittsburgh!
Photography by Matthew Walker