
When you arrive at the Walt Disney World Resort, one of the most enchanting moments is driving under the iconic Walt Disney World sign. It’s a moment that gives you chills, knowing you’re about to embark on a trip filled with unforgettable experiences.
Disneyland Resort, on the other hand, offers a completely different experience. Nestled in the heart of Anaheim, California, the park is surrounded by the city, and it’s easy to see how much the area has developed around it. Unlike Disney World, where the parks are more isolated, Disneyland is right off the highway.
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One minute, you’re driving along, and the next, you’re looking out your window at the back of Cars Land or sitting at a stoplight beside Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT!
With Disneyland’s location right on a public street, it’s common to see vendors and businesses setting up shop just steps from the entrance to the parks.
A recent Reddit thread has brought attention to a so-called “parrot scammer” operating near the entrance on Harbor Boulevard. The individual allegedly uses parrots to lure unsuspecting families into interactions that quickly turn into demands for money.
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The Scammer’s Tactics
The original Reddit post, shared by user u/xizas, detailed a troubling interaction with the alleged scammer:
“The guy who sits at the entrance to Disneyland on Harborview with his parrots. Not a fan.
He aggressively walks up to families with young kids, places the bird on the kid or other unsuspecting family member, takes their photo, and then demands payment.
He doesn’t wait for people to come to him. He targets families.
Don’t know how much he demands as payment, but it is probably an exorbitant amount.”
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The account highlights a pattern of aggressive tactics, with the scammer taking the initiative to engage with visitors without their consent.
Guest Reactions
Other Disneyland visitors were quick to respond, sharing their own encounters with the “parrot scammer.”
One commenter described a particularly unsettling experience:
“He’s awful! Forced the birds onto my kids, took my phone from me to take pics, and then demanded money. He’s a jerk. Also, those birds are in distress, and you can’t change my mind. I despise him.”
Concerns extend beyond the pushy behavior, as commenters questioned the well-being of the parrots. Many believe the birds are being exploited, adding an ethical dimension to the controversy.
What Can Be Done?
Several users on the thread suggested taking immediate action if approached by the scammer. One piece of advice stood out:
“You should have walked up to Anaheim PD that are always posted near the entrance to the bus terminals and said that he grabbed your son without consent so they could deal with him.”
This highlights the importance of reporting incidents to local authorities, particularly if physical contact or uninvited interactions occur.
While Disneyland maintains a high standard of safety and enjoyment within its gates, the areas surrounding the resort can sometimes be a different story. From religious groups in Downtown Disney to street performers outside the entrance, these interactions can occasionally detract from the overall experience.
While many of these activities are legal, the “parrot scammer’s” alleged actions—including placing birds on people without consent and demanding money—raise serious concerns about personal boundaries and safety.
Tips for Visitors
To ensure a smooth visit to Disneyland, it’s important to be aware of potential scams and take steps to avoid them. Here’s how:
- Politely decline any unwanted interactions and walk away.
- Refrain from engaging with individuals who approach you aggressively.
- Report any inappropriate behavior to Anaheim police or nearby security staff.
For many Disneyland fans, the magic starts before they enter the park. However, as this situation demonstrates, staying vigilant in the surrounding areas is essential to ensure a positive experience. By sharing their stories, visitors like those in the Reddit thread help others stay informed and prepared.
Have you ever encountered the “parrot scammer” or other unexpected situations near Disneyland? Share your experiences in the comments and let us know how you handled them. Your advice could make a difference for future visitors.