In the latest aggressive attack on Bay Area waterfowl, someone in Santa Clara is attacking innocent ducks with a blowgun. Property managers at an apartment complex where the ducks like to hang out spotted at least 4 or 5 of the poor creatures walking around with darts stuck in their faces. One duck has died from the injuries, but the good folks at Wild Rescue on the case, devising a rescue strategy that won't further injure the poor creatures by jostling the precarious pin pricks. No suspects at the moment, but Wild Rescue explains the seriousness of the crime:
Blowguns are illegal in California. Under California Penal Code Section 12582, anyone found in possession of a blowgun or blowgun ammunition is guilty of a misdemeanor. Since this crime involves wild birds, the person responsible could face federal charges under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, as well as waterfowl violations under state regulations, and animal cruelty charges.
Apparently, the recent attacks aren't an isolated case either. Rescue workers received reports of another injured animal three miles away back in March.
To help catch the blowgun bastard, Wild Rescue is offering a $5,000 reward for any information leading to his (or her) arrest and conviction. You can reach their tipline at: [email protected]
public for help in locating any of the injured ducks, which they can report through [email protected]. The agency is offering a $5,000 reward for any information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible.
WildRescue can also be reached through its hot line at 831-429-2323.
Previously:
Swan Murder Committed at Palace of Fine Arts
Seagull Torturer Collaring Bay Area Birds With Beer Cans
