'˜We really care for our birds'

The park is home to a number of different species of reptiles and birds.

But in little over a week, a petiton started by resident Carmen Simio has gathered more than 1300 signatures raising concerns over the welfare of the animals and the conditions in which they are living.

Carmen claimed that since starting her post on Facebook, she had been contacted by many people telling her how they don’t even visit the Glasshouse anymore because the living conditions of the animals is a cause of serious distress.

However, the council has pointed out that many of the animals in their care are, in fact, rescued animals, and the issues and signs of distress displayed by some of them are due to how they were previously treated.

A spokesman for the council explained: “Our aviary is regularly inspected by animal welfare experts from a range of outside agencies and none have shared the concerns identified by this private individual.

“If we have any concerns about the conditions of any of the birds we immediately contact a fully accredited vet and put in place appropriate measures based on their advice.”

Many of the concerns raised by Carmen related to the birds in the avairy, where finches, budgies and cockatiels are kept.

She claimed the whole place was covered in bird droppings, dust and dirt.

“Most birds looked scruffy and generally dirty,” she said.

“There was no enrichment or really anything to keep the birds mentally stimulated. “The plucking cockatiel looked – and still looks – awful. He was pulling his back feathers out and looking incredibly stressed and tired.

“When I first saw the plucking cockatiel he had open sores.

“Although the place is slightly cleaner now, it remains unsuitable and no animals should be kept there, birds especially.

“The room with the bigger parrots is narrow, usually very hot and humid, and there is not enough natural light.”

Carmen said she wanted to see the animals rehomed, as she did not believe the council was providing them with proper care.

The council said that the cockatiel which gave most cause for concern was a rescue bird and displayed signs of distress before arriving at The Glasshouse.

The spokesman added: “A recent visit from the SSPCA ended with us being asked to take in more birds to be looked after at the aviary, but we felt we had to decline this offer.”