Oregon Humane Society rescues 245 pet birds in Damascus
In one of the largest animal rescues in Oregon history, the Oregon Humane Society on Wednesday seized 245 pet birds, including many exotic species, from a Damascus resident under investigation for animal neglect.
Many of the birds were housed in overcrowded cages filled with feces and waste that was sometimes several inches deep, OHS said.
Cages were often stacked three or four high, with feces and food waste overflowing from the top cages to the cages below. Many of the birds suffered from severe feather plucking and overgrown nails and beaks, while others appeared to be suffering from chronic stress.
A representative from the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife who visited the location with OHS observed that “everything was wrong: crowded cages, no perches, no fresh drinking water, some with no food, cages haven’t been cleaned … no evidence of common care.”
A veterinarian from the Oregon Zoo, asked to review the conditions, said, “It is obvious that basic veterinary and husbandry care are not being provided.”
The birds were housed in a metal pole barn located on Southeast Bel Air Drive in Damascus.
OHS said it was alerted to the condition of the birds by a citizen who was concerned about overcrowded conditions, poor sanitation and poor air circulation inside the building.
The owner of the birds identified himself as a long-time breeder who stated to OHS that he had not truly cleaned the cages since last spring. The owner declined to surrender the birds voluntarily and said he planned to sell some of the birds.
OHS Humane Special Agents, with the assistance of the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office, executed a search warrant Wednesday morning and seized 245 birds and one kinkajou (a small mammal).
The bird species seized included African grey parrots, macaws, cockatoos, conures, ring neck dove, pigeons, Amazon parrots, finches and parakeets. The birds were transported to an emergency animal shelter prepared by OHS, where they were examined by a veterinarian and treated for medical issues. The animals are not available for adoption at this time and are not available for viewing by the public.
OHS is in need of special supplies to assist with the care of the birds and is directing members of the public to an Amazon wish list page, where individuals can order supplies for delivery to OHS.
