‘How dare you steal our beautiful birds!’ Furious pupils write to therapy bird robbers
PUPILS at a learning difficulties school have written to thieves who stole their therapy birds.
Caretakers found more than 50 birds gone
Caretakers at the school found more than 50 canaries, finches and lovebirds had gone from the aviary.
Head teacher Tony Milovsorov said: “We were shocked. And that soon turned to anger. Who could do such a thing?
The birds are therapeutic, they calm them down
“The birds are therapeutic, they calm them down. They encourage the children to develop their nurturing sides. They get attached to them and care for them.
“It helps them learn to focus on others rather than their own needs. It is devastating for the children.”
The Jane Lane School at Walsall, West Midlands, hopes to develop a vocational qualification in animal husbandry.
The birds are therapeutic and calm the students
It has 130 pupils aged between seven and 19, many with complex physical and mental needs, including autism.
English teacher Natalie Brereton encouraged those affected to write letters and let out their feelings.
Brandon Platt, 12, wrote: “Dear stupid idiots, we are really angry that you stole our birds. I am furious, why have you done this?
Their English teacher encouraged those affected to write letters
“I had two birds. One was called Poppy and the boy Kevin. I spent a lot of time feeding them and they help me to stay calm and relaxed.”
Elisha Jones wrote: “Dear nasty robbers, you made all year seven, including me, upset and you are selfish idiots. How dare you take our beautiful birds?
“You [are] cruel and I am glad if you get arrested. Serves you right!”
Nearby residents have donated birds from their own aviaries
Nearby residents have donated birds from their own aviaries, and offered money.
A pet shop offered to let the children choose new birds.
Mr Milovsorov said: “We are taken aback by the generosity. It has shown the children there are people who give to get nothing in return and that for every bad person there are a dozen good.”