CV Wild Bird Center targeted by metal thieves

The Coachella Valley Wild Bird Center, located at 46500 Van Buren Street in Indio, was targeted by metal thieves on Monday, leaving owner Linda York scrambling to restore power to ensure the proper care of her birds.

Photos: Volunteers start Go Fund Me account to help nonprofit recover

York said thieves stole most of the facility’s copper wiring and cut electricity to the facility early Monday morning. She’s working with an electrician to restore power to the facility Tuesday, but she told KESQ and CBS Local 2 she’s worried that some of the birds aren’t getting their proper care, due to issues such as not being able to warm their formula.

However, restoring power to the facility is going to come at a hefty price. York said It will most likely cost thousands of dollars to replace all of the stolen materials.

No birds have died, but some of the birds rely on warming pads in the cold months. For now, staff at the center have been taking the birds outside and using the warmth of the sun. The center relies on donations to stay open.

Volunteers care for injured and sick birds, and try to rehabilitate them and release them back into the wild. York hopes to have the power back to the facility sometime Tuesday or Wednesday. If you would like to donate and help the center you can call (760) 347-2647.