BIDDULPH bird lovers are being
asked to be on the lookout for a highflying
escapee.
Bones is a five-year-old vulture, and has gone
AWOL from his aviary at Blackbrook Zoological
Park.
The park's curator, Malcolm Mycock, said
Bones was not aggressive or dangerous, and only
fed on carrion rather than killing it own prey.
"Bones looks like your typical vulture, so you
would probably have a bit of a shock if you saw it
in your garden," he said.
Bones stands two-and-a-half feet tall, and has
a wingspan of between 10 and 11 feet.
It has a creamy white back, and the rest of its
feathers are a dull brown colour.
Blackbrook Zoological Park is at Winkhill near
Leek.
Bones, an African White Backed Vulture, was
last seen on Friday evening.
He had disappeared by the time staff returned
to the aviary on Saturday morning.
"The bird is one of a pair, and is about five
years old," said Mr Mycock.
"It looks like it has somehow managed to get
through a small hole which had been gnawed in
the aviary's nylon net.
"Vultures are not great fliers, and tend instead
to soar on air thermals."
Police are urging members of the public who
see Bones to contact the park.
People are asked not to attempt to catch the
bird or handle it.
Anyone who sees Bones is asked to ring 07940-
433102.
Blackbrook Zoological Park is a popular attraction,
and includes birds, mammals, reptiles and
an aquarium.
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