VALLEY CENTER, Calif. (KGTV) — More than 820 birds are in the care of County Animal Services after being recovered from a property in Valley Center Thursday.
According to County News Center, the agency was alerted by Riverside County that the animals were sick and not being properly cared for.
Kendra King, deputy director of the County of San Diego Department of Animal Services, said.
"It's a property that we became aware of from another county that transferred the case to us, and after some investigations by our officers, we decided a warrant was necessary."
King said some of the animals showed signs of health concerns.
"Some do have some concerning body conditions and potential medical conditions that we won't know until we have a vet that examines them closely."
Manny Balcazar, animal medical operations manager for the County of San Diego Department of Animal Services, said veterinary staff are evaluating the animals.
"You know, a lot of them look pretty good. There are some that are that are sickly. There's some that, um, it looks like they've been bullied a little bit by other birds, so they have missing feathers and things like that. But for the most part, the birds seem to be doing OK."
The county confirmed Valley Center resident Howard Berkowitz was arrested on suspicion of animal cruelty. Court records show he has since bailed out.
I reached out to Berkowitz late Friday afternoon and will update this story when a response is received.
Animal Services said the investigation is ongoing and will provide updates on what enforcement action comes next.
Officers visited the property on the 11200 block of Lilac Vista Drive after obtaining a warrant, spending roughly 12 hours removing the animals. They were then taken to the Bonita and Carlsbad animal shelters.
The county said ducks, geese, roosters, peacocks, pigeons, parrots, and "possibly additional species" were rescued.
“Responding to an operation of this size takes dedication and teamwork,” said Dr. Brie Sarvis, director and chief veterinarian.
"When we arrived, our officers found birds living in overcrowded and unsanitary conditions. Our staff and partners worked tirelessly to ensure these animals were safe, and we’re now focused on giving each one the care they need to recover.”
The animals are being evaluated by veterinarians. The San Diego Humane Society is also helping provide support.
The county says people can help by donating to the Animal Services Spirit Medical Fund.
Watch video from the rescue in the player below:
