ASPCA Offers Reward For Missing Birds

On Tuesday 17th August, the Green County Sheriff's Office executed a search warrant on a property in Eastern Green County for the anticipated removal of large numbers of birds. On arrival, officials discovered only 107 birds - far less than expected. The birds were living in "extremely overcrowded and unsanitary conditions", according to the ASPCA, with many crammed into cages with inadequate food and water.

The pigeons, chickens, guinea fowl, ducks and finches were removed by the ASPCA's Field Investigations and Response team and transported to an emergency shelter at the Ozark Empire Fairgrounds. The rehabilitation and care of the birds is being assisted by volunteers from the Humane Society of Missouri, United Animal Nations, and SPCA Serving Erie County, and supplies have been donated by PetSmart Charities.

The ASPCA is now offering a reward of $5,000 for any information that would assist the Greene County Sheriff's Office in the recovery of the remaining birds that were missing from the property. Information can be volunteered via Crime Stoppers using telephone number 869-TIPS (8477). "We hope the community can help us determine the whereabouts of the missing birds. Whether it's 100 or 2,000, the ASPCA's goal is to ensure animals receive proper medical treatment and find suitable homes," said Tim Rickey, the ASPCA's Senior Director of Field Investigation and Response.

"The investigation, rescue and adoption of abused and neglected animals is what we do every day in Missouri. We are glad we have the facilities and expertise at our Longmeadow Rescue Ranch to provide the shelter and care these animals need and deserve," added Kathy Warnick, president of the Humane Society of Missouri.