27 Domesticated Mice Dumped In Greenport Storm Drain

GREENPORT, NY — Even the smallest of creatures deserves to be saved: That was the sentiment in Greenport this weekend as a caring group came together to rescue 27 juvenile mice that had been dumped into a storm drain.

According to Gabrielle Stroup, director of operations at The League animal shelter in Southold and Riverhead, the story of their rescue touched hearts.

On Sunday, she said, a couple who were out visiting family in Greenport noticed some "suspicious activity" by a storm drain at South and First Streets, with individuals carrying a garbage can at the spot.

After the individuals with the garbage can walked away from the drain, the concerned couple "went over to investigate — and that's when they saw a bunch of little critters in the drain," Stroup said. "Dumped there by the couple with the garbage can. Thank God they checked."

Stroup got the call and shelter employees were sent to the scene; police and fire departments were notified," Stroup said.

"Thank you to Southold Town Police Officer John Crosser, who went in the drain and handed them up to shelter employees Dylan and Tammy," Stroup said. "Great job by all involved. The mice are now safe at the Southold animal shelter," Stroup said. "Donation of supplies, tanks, funds to care for them and adopters are needed," Stroup said. "Again, thank you to all who helped. It takes a village."

Stroup said the search is ongoing for whoever dumped the mice. "If anyone saw something, please contact Southold Town Police Department," she said.

Residents lauded the rescue and expressed outrage that so many mice were discarded: "This devastates me, that there are so many rescues," one woman said on Facebook. "These are still precious little lives that have a purpose."