Officials: Foul Play Suspected In Rash Of Peacock Deaths

LOS ANGELES (CBSLA.com) — Foul play is suspected in the deaths of dozens of peacocks found dead this month in Rolling Hills Estates, the spcaLA said Wednesday.

In the most recent case, officials received a tip Monday about an ailing peacock on Bucksin Lane.

The bird, named "Flipper," was the first of 51 to be found alive in the ongoing investigation, officials said.

"Flipper was flailing and unable to take flight," the spcaLA said. "Flipper appeared to be emaciated and suffering from an internal ailment caused by a human" making it unable to survive in the wild.

The bird was taken to an animal hospital for treatment and is expected to survive.

Some of the dead peafowl were found to be accidental – involving birds unintentionally struck by passing vehicles.  However, spcaLA's investigation found several were intentionally killed by firearms, crossbows, and slingshots.

Consequences of taking malicious action against any wild or domesticated animal can include felony animal cruelty charges and fines.

Anyone with information should contact the spcaLA Tipline at 1(800)540-SPCA.