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16
Aug 2021
Some Kilinghall peacocks could be re-homed
Some of Killinghall's peacocks could be re-homed following longstanding concerns about noise and damage.
The number of peacocks in the village has expanded rapidly in recent years and there are currently believed to be between nine and 16 birds roaming freely.
Some villagers love them but others, particularly those living in the Cautley Drive area where they roost, have complained about noise and damage.
In a social media post today. Killinghall Parish Council clerk Sue Reid said it had contacted Harrogate Borough Council, the Department for Food and Rural Affairs, the RSPCA and a peacock breeding organisation for help.
But because nobody owns the birds, and they wander around, nobody is responsible for their welfare — or any problems they create.
Some people in the village have said they suffer long-term sleep deprivation due to the birds' loud screeching.
Read more:
- RSPCA dashes hopes of Peter the Peacock returning to Bilton
- New vicar for Killinghall, Birstwith and Hampsthwaite
Ms Reid's post said:
'Difficult situation'
Speaking to the Stray Ferret, Ms Reid said depending on the outcome of the RSPCA welfare checks, it was likely some of the birds would be re-homed by a peacock society in southern England.
She added some peacocks would remain in the village.
She also stressed the council was impartial on the issue but was acting in response to numerous complaints by villagers — not only by newcomers but also by people who have lived in Killinghall for years. She said:
Bilton's resident peacock Peter was recently re-homed following concerns about his health.
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