Budgies abandoned in their cage in Liverpool park just days before Christmas

Two budgies are recovering in RSPCA care after being abandoned at Sefton Park in Liverpool.

The birds were found next to their cage after being spotted by a member of the public at about 2.20pm on Monday 18 December.

They were successfully caught by animal rescue officer David Mcelwee after the animal welfare charity was alerted about the incident.

David transferred them to the charity’s Stapeley Grange Wildlife Centre in Nantwich where both of them were checked over by a vet.

Anyone who saw what happened or recognises the birds – who were found near a clothes recycling bin at the entrance opposite St Hilda’s CE High School on Croxteth Drive – is being urged to contact the RSPCA’s appeal line on 0300 123 8018 quoting reference number 01198676.

The incident comes as recent figures released by the RSPCA show that cases of animal abandonment have soared to a shocking three-year high amid the ongoing cost of living crisis.

David said: “Thankfully the budgies had remained on the ground and were relatively easy to catch when I got there. Abandoning them like this had put them in all sorts of danger and we’re grateful to the member of the public who rang us so quickly.

“They were undoubtedly someone’s pets and, for whatever reason, were no longer wanted and simply discarded. It’s sad to see any animal being treated like this and whatever their circumstances, we’d urge people to seek help and advice.

“The budgies have been monitored in our care and thankfully they don’t appear to have any lasting issues, so we’ll be looking to rehome them when they’re fully recovered.”

Over 17,800 reports of abandoned animals were received by the animal welfare charity across England and Wales up to the end of October this year. This compares with 16,118 reports during the whole of 2020, meaning the RSPCA is on course to see a 32.9% rise in abandonment calls in 2023.

The combined effects of the pandemic and a cost of living crisis have meant more animals than ever will need the RSPCA’s help which is why the charity is urging supporters to join the Christmas Rescue this winter.

According to the charity’s Animal Kindness Index, 81% of pet owners say it is more expensive to look after their pets – and 23% of owners are worried about feeding their pets.

A dedicated cost of living telephone helpline (0300 123 0650) has been opened by the charity and pet owners are being urged to seek help if required. There is also a dedicated cost of living hub on our website.