Residents of Gravesend, Kent in the U.K. had grown fond of a peacock named Saataj, who had been roaming the village for more than six months, hopping from house to house and fence to fence. They had been feeding and caring for the bird until it started making loud noises in search of a mate during breeding season. Concerned neighbors called Dartford Animal Rescue for assistance in catching the bird and providing it with the opportunity to find a mate.
The rescue operation involved playing peahen noises to lure the peacock off a roof and into a parking lot where it was captured and placed in an Ikea carrier bag. The bird was then safely transported to a center where it was introduced to other peacocks and peahens to find a suitable mate. The bird had been causing concern for neighbors due to its loud calls during breeding season, prompting the need for rescue and relocation to a suitable environment.
Ciara O’Hare, who runs the rescue organization, explained that the peacock had been roaming the area for a significant period of time, causing neighbors to become attached to the bird and even give it a name. Dartford Animal Rescue, which had never caught a peacock before, successfully apprehended the bird with the help of experienced volunteers and animal rescuers. The peacock was unharmed during the rescue operation and was safely transported to a sanctuary where it could find companionship with other peacocks and peahens.
Peacocks are known for their beautiful plumage and ground-feeding habits, eating insects, plants, and small creatures, according to National Geographic. Males, known as peacocks, may gather a group of females, known as peahens, to form a harem during breeding season. The females will lay three to five eggs each, contributing to the peafowl population. The rescued peacock named Saataj will have the opportunity to socialize with other peacocks and peahens in a sanctuary setting where it can find a suitable mate.
The successful rescue operation was a collaborative effort involving Dartford Animal Rescue, volunteers, and animal rescuers who were experienced in handling birds. The bird was captured and transported stress-free using an Ikea bag, ensuring its safety and well-being throughout the process. The local community had become attached to the peacock, and they will have the opportunity to visit the bird at the sanctuary’s café, bringing closure to the rescue operation and providing peace of mind to concerned neighbors.
Overall, the rescue of the wandering peacock named Saataj in Gravesend, Kent demonstrates the dedication and expertise of animal rescue organizations and volunteers in maintaining the well-being of wildlife in urban environments. The successful capture and relocation of the bird to a suitable sanctuary facilitated the peacock’s search for a mate during breeding season, alleviating concerns and ensuring the bird’s safety and continuation of its species. Such operations highlight the importance of community involvement in wildlife conservation efforts and the need to address issues affecting local wildlife populations with care and compassion.
