Peacocks and Peahens Disappear from US Hotel

Dozens of peacocks and peahens have disappeared from a historical Art Deco hotel in Walnut Grove, California, leaving the hotel staff concerned that the birds may have been stolen. An eyewitness reported seeing two men capturing one of the birds and loading it into a cage on a pickup truck. After a count, the hotel staff discovered that only four of the exotic birds remained on the property.

The general manager of the Ryde Hotel, David Nielsen, expressed the staff’s distress, stating that they are devastated by the loss of the birds. The authorities are treating the case as a property crime, as each male peacock is valued at $2,000, and each peahen at $1,000, according to Sgt. Amar Gandhi of the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office.

The hotel owner had introduced five peacocks to the grounds 14 years ago, leading to the birds becoming a recognizable feature of the hotel. Fed on high-quality leftovers like fillet mignon, prime rib, and salmon, the birds became accustomed to human contact and were even given names by the staff.

The hotel catering coordinator, Rafe Goorwitch, described the largest peacock, Baba, as having a commanding presence, with a sense of ownership over the hotel. Despite peacocks typically being aloof, Baba had a friendly and lovable nature, resembling that of a dog.

Following news of the disappearance, the hotel has received calls from the public with tips and sightings of the missing birds, providing hope for their safe return. In response to the incident, the hotel has enhanced its surveillance system and is considering additional security measures. The staff remains hopeful that the birds will be located and brought back home soon.