West Bloomfield

Sanitation workers find parakeet pet alive among trash

By Eric Czarnik
C & G Staff Writer

WEST BLOOMFIELD — Police are investigating an incident involving two parakeets — one living, one dead — being found in a birdcage among garbage for pickup Jan. 29.

West Bloomfield Police Chief Mike Patton said Rizzo Environmental Services, the new township-wide trash hauler, sent two of its workers to make rounds on Beverly Crest Drive in West Bloomfield that day.

While the workers were picking up trash, they reportedly noticed a birdcage outside by the curb containing the dead bird, as well as the living one.

Patton said the workers contacted their supervisor, and the living pet was taken into his custody. The trash hauler then reportedly contacted West Bloomfield Town Hall, employees of which then contacted the police.

“The police responded to the home and met with the two homeowners,” Patton said. “They’re both older. They stated at the time last night (that) they truly believe that both of the birds had passed away.”

Patton said the homeowners had owned the birds for around three years. The chief said the incident has been referred to the investigation bureau for review, and it is unknown at this time whether further action might be taken.

Michigan Humane Society spokesman Kevin Hatman said he is not sure how often birds are abandoned, since many people are unaware that his group accepts them. However, he said people often abandon dogs, especially after their homes are foreclosed on.

Hatman encouraged people to call, set up an appointment and bring their unwanted animals to the Humane Society so it can find them a home or a rescuer.

“A lot of people don’t know that, here at MHS, we are not just for cats and dogs. If you are not able to take care of a bird or a rat or a gerbil ... please give us a call,” he said.

“Don’t just dump it on the curb. These are living creatures.”

Rizzo CEO Chuck Rizzo said the supervisor’s mother has adopted the surviving parakeet. “The bird is still with her, happy, and everything is great,” Rizzo said.

You can reach C & G Staff Writer Eric Czarnik at eczarnik@candgnews.com or at (586)498-1058.