A runaway parrot has become a source of frustration for residents in a Scottish neighbourhood after allegedly damaging parked vehicles.
The small bird is accused of chewing rubber parts on cars with its beak, causing losses worth thousands of dollars to local residents.
According to residents, the parrot has been roaming the area since February. It is said to tear at windscreen wipers and rubber window seals on parked vehicles. As a result, several residents have started covering their cars with tarpaulins when they are not in use.
One local woman told the media: “People in our neighbourhood no longer mention the parrot in favourable terms. The little bird has left a trail of damage and caused considerable disruption.”
Residents say the parrot occasionally disappears for several weeks, leading many to believe the problem has ended. However, reports soon emerge that the bird has returned to the area.
Wildlife experts say they cannot state with certainty why the bird targets rubber components on vehicles. They suggest three possible explanations. The parrot may see its reflection in car windows and regard it as a rival, prompting territorial behaviour. It may be attracted to specific minerals or fats contained in the rubber. Another possibility is that the bird is simply playing to relieve boredom.
Experts added that parrots of this species are not commonly found in Scotland. They believe the bird was most likely a pet that either escaped or was abandoned.
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