Wild Parrots Are Being Shot With Pellet Guns In The San Gabriel Valley

LOS ANGELES, CA — Wild parrots in the San Gabriel Valley are being shot and wounded over the past several weeks, and authorities are looking for those responsible.

The birds have been hit with shot from pellet guns, killing some birds while others are being cared for by animal advocacy nonprofits, NBC Los Angeles reported.

Cleo Watts of Cleo’s Critter Care said her organization took in 11 of the birds with injuries, including pellet guns hots to the skull and chest.

“They’re using guns to hurt animals. Already, that’s inhumane,” Watts told NBC.

The Pasadena Humane Society confirmed that police are investigating the incidents as crimes.

"We’ve received a concerning report regarding multiple wild parrots being shot by a pellet gun in Pasadena and surrounding areas," the humane society announced in a written statement. "One deceased parrot has come into the shelter, and there is evidence to suggest that it had been shot. Our Animal Control Department is investigating these reported incidents in collaboration with local police.

"Please be vigilant. If you witness someone shooting at parrots or any wildlife, immediately call the local police. Shooting a gun (even a pellet gun) within city limits is a crime."

Anyone who finds a wounded or deceased parrot can text the the humane society's wildlife helpline at 626 -344-1129, or call Animal Control Dispatch at 626.792.7151 ext 102 after hours.