Council clarifies plan to remove overpopulated peafowl at Saguaro Ranch, says flock will remain

Glendale councilmembers addressed public concern about planned removal of peafowl at Saguaro Ranch Park during council comments on Aug. 26, saying the city is not removing all of the birds but will humanely relocate part of an overpopulated flock. Councilmember Milner said staff had moved forward on a recommendation to remove some of the peafowl because of overpopulation. Milner said the city will “in a very humane manner” capture and transport some birds to other locations and will leave a significant flock in the park for public enjoyment. Councilmember Bart Turner echoed the comments and said relocating the excess birds is in the animals’ best interest and will help neighbors and park visitors. Both councilmembers noted that the plan had prompted emails and an online petition that suggested the city intended to remove all the birds; they sought to correct that impression on the record. No formal action or ordinance was recorded in the Aug. 26 meeting minutes regarding peafowl; the remarks were council commentary and clarification of a council workshop recommendation discussed earlier.