Pair of cheeky peahens think they own the place
Pensioner offers to help after birds start ruling the roost
A pair of pesky peahens are terrorising a village prompting one plucky octogenarian to take action.
The duo have been prowling the streets of sleepy Hollingbourne since Easter, with residents repeatedly having to call nearby Leeds Castle and the Mercure Maidstone Great Danes Hotel in an effort to track down the owners.
The birds have been causing a particular nuisance in villagers’ gardens, where they have torn through plants, burrowed deep holes and laid eggs.
Last week things took a turn for the worse when they entered one severely disabled resident’s home.
Jean Talboys, 85, said: “We’ve had problems with them for several months but whenever we contact local owners no one is missing any.
“In the past week they have really overstepped the mark because they got into the house of a severely disabled gentleman through his open french windows.
“He could not do anything about it so I phoned Leeds Castle once again. Fortunately this time a charming man got back to me and said if I call him next time there is a problem he will come out within 10 minutes and take them away.”
Mrs Talboys has offered to be a contact point for villagers who have been invaded by the fowl.
She added: “They’ve often entered my garden and settled down as if they owned the place. I suggest when they are caught they have their wings clipped because they really shouldn’t be doing this.”
The pair remain at large and if spotted residents are asked to entice them into a shed, garage or conservatory with some bird food and when they are safely captured contact Mrs Talboys on 01622 880 349.