PCR tests find no pathogens in six abandoned parrots

Six parrots abandoned in Schlatt have been examined and are clinically healthy, the Innviertel Animal Welfare Initiative told ORF. The initiative is caring for the birds, while it remains unclear which authority is responsible for the case.

Eight exotic birds were abandoned in early September in a wooded stretch along the Ager in Schlatt. Six were caught. Their claws and beaks, which had grown too long, were also trimmed.

Laboratory tests, including PCR tests for beak and feather disease, polyomaviruses, chlamydia and bornaviruses, found no pathogens. The test reports caution that negative results cannot completely rule out an infection.

The search for the two missing parrots has been called off. The initiative said falling temperatures had sharply reduced the hope of finding them alive.

Police are investigating a suspect on suspicion of animal cruelty. The initiative said no authority had yet accepted responsibility for the case, but it hoped the issue would be resolved this week.