Peacock shot with arrow in Pinellas neighborhood

PINELLAS PARK (FOX 13) - An investigation is underway after a peacock was found with an arrow through its body, according to the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office.

The Suncoast Animal League rescued the bird and brought it to a veterinarian, who was able to remove the arrow successfully. 

"I got there and was shocked to see this bird sitting on top of the roof with this 34-inch arrow sticking out of it," said Rick Chaboudy with the Suncoast Animal League.

According to Chaboudy, the peacocks have been a controversial topic in the Greenbriar neighborhood for decades. While some residents love them, others say living among peacocks has its challenges.

"I don't like them destroying my car, that's the only thing," said Rick Richer, who has lived in the neighborhood for 13 years.

But overall, most residents agree the peacocks should be respected.

"To think that you would treat an animal that way, it's heartbreaking, really," said Brad Vaughn.

The Pinellas County Sheriff's Office is investigating this case and said unnecessarily killing or injuring an animal is considered animal cruelty. Anyone who does not like the peacocks on their property is asked to contact a trapper to remove the bird properly and humanely.

As for the peacock that was injured with the arrow, it is living with a family in Brandon.