In one of the largest animal rescues in Oregon history, the Oregon Humane Society yesterday seized 245 pet birds, including many exotic species, from a Damascus resident under investigation for animal neglect.

Oct 24, 2016 – Update here »

Nov. 11, 2016 – Adoption update here »

Many of the birds were housed in overcrowded cages filled with feces and waste that was sometimes several inches deep. Cages were often stacked three or four high, with feces and food waste overflowing from the top cages to the cages below. Many of the birds suffered from severe feather plucking and overgrown nails and beaks, while others appeared to be suffering from chronic stress.

A representative from the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife who visited the location with OHS, observed that, “Everything was wrong: crowded cages, no perches, no fresh drinking water, some with no food, cages haven’t been cleaned … no evidence of common care.” A veterinarian from the Oregon Zoo, asked to review the conditions, stated that, “It is obvious that basic veterinary and husbandry care are not being provided.”

The birds were housed in a metal pole barn located on SE Bel Air Drive in Damascus. OHS was alerted to the condition of the birds by a citizen who was concerned about overcrowded conditions, poor sanitation and poor air circulation inside the building. The owner of the birds identified himself as a long-time breeder who stated to OHS that he had not truly cleaned the cages since last spring. The owner declined to surrender the birds voluntarily and said he planned to sell some of the birds.

OHS Humane Special Agents, with the assistance of the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office, executed a search warrant the morning of July 6 and seized 245 birds and one kinkajou (a small mammal). The bird species seized include African gray parrots, macaws, cockatoos, conures, ring neck doves, pigeons, Amazon parrots, finches and parakeets.

The birds were transported to an emergency animal shelter prepared by OHS, where they were examined by a veterinarian and treated for medical issues. The animals are not available for adoption at this time and are not available for viewing by the public.

How You Can Help

OHS is in need of special supplies to assist with the care of the birds. Those who would like to help are encouraged to donate some of the needed items found on our Wish List here and our Amazon registry here.

If you are interested in becoming an OHS foster care volunteer, please find information and the application here.

The animals involved in this case are currently in protective custody and cannot be rehomed at this time. OHS will continue to update the public on our website and social media as we can. This is an ongoing investigation. Nov. 11, 2016 – Adoption update here »

Notes: OHS does not maintain wait lists for interested adopters. OHS will provide updates on this case as we can, including adoption information if/when available. Watch our website and refresh it often for new information, see currently available pets for adoption here, and consider signing up for our email newsletter here to be notified of any updates.

Video: Rescue and Emergency Shelter Set-up