THE PEACOCK INVASION
The citizens of Punta Marina, a small town of just over 3,200 inhabitants on the outskirts of Ravenna (Emilia-Romagna), have an unusual problem on their hands. They are invaded by peacocks that wander all over the streets and gardens and keep them off their sleep with their strident cries.
The birds have multiplied over the years, from (it is believed) a pair released by a local resident some ten years ago and now comprise a fixed colony of over a hundred individuals.
The birds wander freely along the pavements and over the roads, settle on rooftops and invade private gardens. In addition to having to clean up excrements, residents also complain of damage to their property, since peacocks are big birds, with adult males weighing an average 4-6 kilos.
Another major grouse is the strident screeches, night and day throughout the mating season, when every male tries to outdo his rivals, thus disturbing the sleep of the human residents. Plans to move the colony to a designated controlled area have been obstructed, however, by animal rights activists as well as some residents who see the peacocks as an asset and a tourist attraction. So far, the peacocks reign undisturbed!
Source: “Il Resto del Carlino”
