Over the past weeks, the Newport Beach Police Department has received several calls regarding birds that have been injured by arrow-like projectiles. We have documented four individual birds – three Heermann’s gulls and one Mallard duck – that have been shot through the neck, although there may be more injured birds in the area.
All of the projectiles are orange in color, approximately 8” in length. Follow-up investigation has determined that the projectiles are most likely blow darts, used in conjunction with a blowgun. Images of two of the injured birds and a sample image of a blowgun set and are attached for reference.
Federal and state laws protect birds from this type of inhumane treatment. Possession, use, or sale of a blowgun or blowgun ammunition is also a violation of California state law.
These birds are still able to fly, making it difficult for Animal Control Officers to capture them for medical treatment. If you see one of these injured birds, please call our nonemergency line at 949-644-3717 and report the bird’s location in a timely manner. Do not try to approach or capture the injured birds on your own.
Anyone with information regarding the person(s) involved in this activity is encouraged to contact Animal Control Officer Nick Ott at 949-644-3688 ext. 2716 or [email protected]. Messages can be left anonymously, if so desired.
The Newport Beach Police Department administers the Pick-a-Pet foundation, which provides funding for the care of injured and abandoned animals, and supports the pet adoption goals of our Animal Shelter. Charitable monetary donations may be dropped off at the Police Department’s front desk or mailed to Animal Control’s attention at the Police Department (870 Santa Barbara Drive, CA 92660). Checks should be made out to the City of Newport Beach, noting “Pick-a-Pet Foundation” in the memo line. These monies are eligible for charitable donation tax reductions; a tax receipt will be provided to each donor.
