Essex celebrity peacock causing issues for animal control

A peacock has been causing quite the stir in Essex, perched comfortably on rooftops and strutting around town while dodging animal control officer Amy Reilly’s best efforts to catch him. This standoff has turned the peacock into a local legend, with nicknames like “Liberace” and “The Disco Chicken” floating around the community.

The bird’s glamorous appearance and daily appearances along a busy road have captured the hearts of many residents. Despite concerns for his safety, attempts to catch the peacock have been unsuccessful due to their remarkable speed and agility. Peacocks are known for being nearly impossible to catch once they’ve been domesticated and have had negative experiences with nets.

While some past reports of peacocks in Essex have come and gone, this particular bird seems to have settled into the neighborhood’s routine. The Essex Shipbuilding Museum even offers a stuffed animal version in its gift shop, and residents have expressed interest in adopting the bird should he ever be captured.

As a male Indian peafowl with strikingly colorful plumage, this peacock has become a daily delight for local businesses like Essex Pizza and Restaurant and The Farm. Customers and staff enjoy his presence, with some even joking about him waiting to place an order at the outdoor tables.

Peacock sightings have become a regular occurrence in Essex, drawing excitement and joy from the community. Despite his tendency to leave droppings on decks, neighbors like Steve Dennis appreciate having such a magnificent and entertaining visitor nearby.