Residents in a North Cowichan neighbourhood are fed up with the peacocks that have overrun their community. The birds, which were acquired by a neighbouring farm sometime after 2015, have grown in numbers to nearly 12. Neighbours are frustrated with the constant noise caused by the peacocks, especially during their mating season, which lasts about six months. They are also disturbed by the mess the birds leave behind, including feces in their gardens and on their property.
One homeowner, Dick Zandee, described the disruption caused by the peacocks, explaining that they make it difficult for residents to sleep at night. He even wears ear muffs to block out the noise. Neighbour Mona Anderson expressed her frustration with the birds defecating wherever they please, including in her vegetable garden and on her fountain. She compared the situation to having dogs running loose in the neighbourhood, stating that they would be taken away if they caused a similar nuisance.
Despite the complaints, the farm owners who are believed to be the owners of the peacocks have not responded to the issue. A group of neighbours has taken the matter to the local bylaw department, but the farm owners reportedly disputed ownership of the birds. The municipality has provided the residents with a live trap to try and capture the peacocks for relocation. Zandee managed to trap two birds last year and is working on catching more to alleviate the disturbance caused by the birds.
While the residents acknowledge the beauty of the peacocks, they are primarily concerned with improving their quality of life in the neighbourhood. Anderson emphasized that their goal is not to harm the birds but to relocate them in order to make the community more peaceful. The residents are hopeful that by working together and capturing more peacocks, they can ensure a quieter and cleaner environment for everyone in the neighbourhood.
In conclusion, the peacock infestation in the North Cowichan neighbourhood has led to significant disruptions for residents, ranging from noise pollution to property damage. Despite efforts to address the issue through local bylaws and relocation efforts, the farm owners have disputed ownership of the birds. The residents are focused on peacefully resolving the situation by capturing and relocating the peacocks to improve the overall quality of life in the community. By working together and engaging with local authorities, they hope to find a solution that benefits both the residents and the birds.
