A woman could face charges after sheriff's deputies found 445 birds in her home in Santa Barbara, Calif., local media reported Monday.
Santa Barbara County Animal Services is expected to present its evidence against Sanday Coupla to a district attorney later this week, KEYT.com reported.
An anonymous tip led sheriff's deputies to Coupla's home, where they found 445 birds -- including chickens, parrots, turkeys and quail. Farm animals, cats and dogs were also on the premises.
The county animal shelter, which is set up to handle 2-3 birds, was asking for donations of bird food, KSBY.com reported.
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This story is for the birds.
Why would anyone have that many animals in their home? I live on 1/2 acre and have 2 dogs, 2 cats & 2 birds. They are well cared for. But that many animals? She has got to be a hoarder. I feel for the animals. I hope they all find good homes & are well cared for. Shame on her!
It does not say how big her lot is. It also says that she had farm animals. I would think dogs, cats, turkeys, and chickens would all have to be considered farm animals. Was she hiding some swine, horses, and/or cows as well? Sounds like she may have been living on a farm.
i can not fathom these numbers wow
Not knowing anything but the count of birds does not really tell us if she's a hoarder or not. A lot depends on the species of birds. For example, some finches are happier in flocks and prefer to be in groups of 20 or more - provided you have appropriate enclosures and husbandry the numbers can get high. Also hard to tell if the number includes poultry which are often kept in great condition in flocks on farms. Still, 445 is a lot of bird dander, particularly if they are all actually in the woman's living area. If they were not kept immaculately, it is extremely likely they will have respiratory problems.