Neglected ostriches die from starvation in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi - "Maybe the owner doesn't know this is happening to his birds."

An ostrich rescue last week saved the lives of 15 abandoned and malnourished ostriches in a farm in the UAE Capital. An animal welfare group claimed that carcasses were also discovered at the site, and said the birds died due to negligence and starvation.
Dr Susan Aylott, Founder of the Animal Welfare Abu Dhabi in 2015, told Khaleej Times that as many as four ostriches died due to starvation and lack of safe shelter.
"We received seven reports from people who have spotted the birds roaming around."
"The ostriches did not have food or water. There was no proper shelter too, which is equally dangerous to the public, because these are very vicious animals."
Dr Aylott, who moved from UK to the UAE seven years ago, pointed out that the Animal Welfare group received tremendous amount of support from UAE residents to help rescue the birds.
"More than 47 people stepped in to help, as well as The Pet Shack, who setup feeding stations and gave them a chance to survive."
She said the welfare group is in contact with the authorities to come to a safe solution for the welfare of the animals, as well as the residents living near the site.
"We have been dealing with the authorities and going through the process and we spoke to the owner's representatives. Now we are just hoping they will have a better life.
"We are still visiting the birds every two-three days, providing food and water and a series of volunteers are also taking care of them."
Dr Alyott said it appears the owner of the birds was unaware about their dangerous condition and may have left them in the hands of a care taker who ultimately neglected them.
"Maybe he doesn't know this is happening to his birds."
She noted that although ostriches can live well and survive in a hot climate, it is crucial they are provided with a proper shelter, food and water, as well as regular medical check-ups.
"Ostriches are expensive to take care of financially, they are a commodity to whoever buys them, so owners must look after them."
Last week, Animal Welfare Abu Dhabi also rescued two cockatoos, five kittens and a tortoise, and recently conducted a filed clinic on Lulu Island, where abandoned cats were sterilised.
Dr Aylott said that it is crucial to teach communities, particularly the youth, about compassion and empathy towards animals.
"In the Year of Giving we hope more communities will get involved with animal rescue, to work together and help protect animals in need."
"If we, as humans, can learn to help the animals, then we will learn to help each other."
jasmine@khaleejtimes.com