During the afternoon free-flight training on Wednesday, two Kakadus flew out of Walter Zoo because they got scared. Since then, they had been missing. But thanks to the diligent help from the public, the zoo was able to follow up on some leads – with success!
Thomas Harder, the zoo’s marketing director, told FM1 that the birds were spotted alive in Sommeri in the canton of Thurgau on Friday morning. “Unfortunately, they had already moved on by the time our staff member arrived on site,” Harder explains.
So, are the runaways still on the loose? Well, sort of. Harder actually has good news: “One of the two Kakadus was spotted in Andwil, it landed on the shoulder of an apple farmer while he was shaking apples from a tree.” The bird liked it so much at the farmer’s place that it patiently waited there to be picked up. It is now back home in Gossau.
The whereabouts of the second Kakadu are unclear. However, Harder is not giving up hope: “Since it worked out so well with one, there is also a big hope of bringing the second one safely back to Gossau.” The fact that the birds split up despite being observed in Sommeri is unusual, as Kakadus usually prefer to be in a flock.
The zoo is still grateful for any tips. Harder advises people to look into the trees, as the birds have always been seen there. The search radius is large. He suspects that the Kakadu is somewhere in the Gossau/Bodensee area.
In situations like this, the community’s help is crucial in locating and bringing back lost animals. The zoo staff is working diligently to ensure the safe return of both Kakadus. If you happen to spot a Kakadu in the area, do not hesitate to contact the zoo immediately. Your assistance could make a significant difference in reuniting these birds with their home. Let’s keep an eye out for our feathered friends and help them find their way back safely.