SAN DIEGO -- Officers investigating the multiple parrot shootings in Point Loma and Ocean Beach this year say they have still not identified a suspect in the crimes.
The County of San Diego Department of Animal Services has been investigating the pellet and BB gun shootings, but say their leads have not panned out.
"We know that there was some rumor that a teenager was involved," Deputy Director Harold Holmes said. "We found no evidence to confirm that at this point. So we still have no idea who may be doing this."
Holmes says at this point, they need all the tips they can get.
“There’s very little evidence left behind. So we really depend on somebody knowing something, hearing something, and reporting it to us,” Holmes said. “So anybody that has information about somebody bragging that they may have been involved in this, please come forward and tell us.”
Jen Carter is one of several volunteers going to a training at SoCal Parrot to learn about the birds and what to do in the next emergency.
"In the event of another human/parrot conflict, they can be on hand to address and be consulted almost immediately," Carter said.
Carter says it's important for everyone in the community to stay involved.
“As long as it’s reported, it’s going to be at the forefront of law enforcement,” Carter said. “People are watching out. People are figuring out, you know, trying to decide who their kids are hanging out with.”
Carter also says the unsolved crimes have made them all more protective of the parrots.
"In one note we'll see all the pictures of parrots that are being shot at, where they're dead on the street," Carter said. "And on the other hand, you'll see the photos, the shooting that we like to see, the photography. It makes us so much more appreciative of these birds."
Carter says there is now an $8,000 reward for any information leading to the arrest of the parrot shooter.
"They're funny. They're like little green clowns, so who wouldn't be upset?" Jen Carter said. "Basically hanging out in the trees. They're not flying by and being shot at. They're sitting in a tree resting."
If you have any information, call the Department of Animal Services at 619-767-2766.
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