Missing bird safely returns to the Living Desert
PALM DESERT, Calif. (KESQ) – A bird that managed to escape from the Living Desert last week was returned safely to the zoo, officials announced on Monday.
“Pili,” a Southern ground hornbill, escaped the zoo grounds on Thursday. Staff initially tracked the bird, but due to the steep terrain, couldn't follow its path. It was last seen on Friday near the Boyd Deep Canyon Desert Research Center at the base of the Santa Rosa Mountains.
Zoo officials said Pili was spotted Monday morning at the Reserve Country Club in Indian Wells. It was later spotted a few miles away at the Vintage Country Club, where animal Care staff successfully recaptured the hornbill without incident at approximately 9:15 a.m.
"I am happy to report that the bird appears healthy and uninjured following its brief adventure," said Allen Monroe, CEO and President of The Living Desert. "The eight-year-old male hornbill is currently undergoing veterinary evaluation and will eventually be placed on habitat with the female “Mabel."
Monroe praised the collaborative effort that led to the bird's safe return.
"I want to extend my sincere gratitude to our Animal Care Department, whose team worked tirelessly throughout the weekend searching for the bird and coordinating recovery efforts. Their professionalism, persistence, and dedication to animal welfare were exemplary," Monroe said.
The Living Desert said it received several reported sightings from community members during the search. Officials thanked the individuals and staff at the Reserve and Vintage Country Clubs as well as local media outlets, for sharing information about the bird with the public.
The Living Desert is conducting a thorough review of the incident to ensure continued animal safety.
