SIOUX CITY -- Bubbles the parrot has been birdnapped.

Her owner, Michelle Zimmerman, is pleading for the 7-year-old umbrella cockatoo's safe return.

"We just want the bird back," said Zimmerman, 19. "The bird is like my child."

The white parrot, which has a black dot tattoo under her left wing, was stolen Wednesday evening from her cage at Zimmerman Pets in rural Sioux City.

She was the only animal taken from the store, which is attached to the family's home.

The Plymouth County Sheriff's Office is investigating the incident.

With her outgoing personality and ability to do tricks, Bubbles was the store's mascot and a favorite of customers. Zimmerman said Bubbles likes to cuddle, is potty trained, likes to watch cartoons, waves with her feet and can unwrap her birthday presents by herself.

Although Bubbles is valued at $3,000, Zimmerman said her parrot was not for sale.

"We think somebody came into our shop (who) had been here before and knows Bubbles and just took her," Zimmerman said.

The theft was probably made easier by the fact that, unlike some parrots, Bubbles is extremely friendly.

"If you know her name she likes you already," Zimmerman said.

Anyone with information about Bubbles' whereabouts is asked to call the Plymouth County Sheriff's Office at 712)-546-8191.