Earlier today the South African Police Service (SAPS) alerted the Cape of Good Hope SPCA about dead and dying peacocks in Skilpadvlei Drive, Durbanville. Our Wildlife Department was horrified on arrival by the sight of dead birds. Five adult peacocks were collected and transported to the SPCA for assessment and monitoring. One subsequently passed away on-route to the SPCA animal hospital in Grassy Park. 22 Carcasses were collected, of which 12 were adult peacocks, 7 were juveniles/peachicks, 1 was a ringneck dove and 2 were laughing doves. It is suspected that the birds may have been poisoned.
We are calling on the public to come forward with information related to the cause of the sick and dead birds and/or information on who may be responsible. We are also asking the public to keep an eye out for any affected birds in the area that may need urgent assistance or intervention. It does not appear as though peacocks are the only affected birds. We are investigating this matter further and will be working closely with the SAPS. Information can be supplied to the Cape of Good Hope SPCA anonymously on 021 700 4158/9 during office hours or 083 326 1604 after hours.
