Pasadena, California — Residents of a Pasadena neighborhood are demanding answers after a beloved local peacock was allegedly attacked by a mail carrier following an encounter near a delivery truck. The incident reportedly left the bird disoriented and refusing to eat or drink before residents stepped in to get it veterinary care.
The peacock, a white-feathered bird named Sugar, has become familiar to people living in the neighborhood. Residents say many locals regularly look after the animal and have grown attached to it over time.
Residents Say Peacock Was Attacked Near Mail Truck
Gina Davis, a local schoolteacher who has affection for Sugar, told the Los Angeles Times that she noticed something was wrong with the bird after the alleged incident.
She said the peacock appeared disoriented and was refusing to eat or drink.
“Pretty much the entire neighborhood knows him, takes care of him,” Davis told the newspaper.
Concerned about the bird’s condition, Davis reviewed footage from her home’s security camera. According to her account, the video showed a mail carrier allegedly throwing a rock at Sugar before striking the bird.
The footage reportedly spread throughout the neighborhood, leaving residents shocked and angry.
Peacock Allegedly Followed Carrier Back to Truck
According to Davis, the incident began when Sugar followed the mail carrier toward his vehicle.
She said the carrier allegedly threw a rock at the peacock, but the bird then followed him back to the mail truck. Davis said the peacock eventually stood in front of the vehicle.
“The peacock was just standing in front of his truck,” Davis said. “He got out of his truck and had a club or stick or something and hit it.”
The alleged attack prompted residents to seek immediate help for the bird.
Pasadena Humane Takes Peacock for Treatment
After learning what had happened, a neighbor contacted Pasadena Humane, which sent a veterinarian to examine Sugar. The peacock was subsequently taken to the organization’s Wildlife Center for further care and observation.
A Pasadena Humane spokesperson told the Los Angeles Times that the bird was examined and appeared to have suffered minor swelling at the location where it was struck, but veterinarians did not find any apparent broken bones.
Officials said Sugar is expected to recover.
The bird will nevertheless remain under observation for several more days while staff monitor its condition.
Investigation Into Alleged Attack Continues
Pasadena Humane is investigating the alleged attack and has asked people in the neighborhood to provide any video footage they may have captured.
The investigation could help officials establish exactly what happened and determine whether further action is warranted.
Meanwhile, the U.S. Postal Service has also responded to questions about the incident.
Kristina Uppal, a USPS spokesperson, told the Los Angeles Times that postal workers have had previous encounters with peacocks and that the agency is working with Pasadena Humane regarding the birds.
The agency said it takes “allegations of inappropriate conduct seriously” and would take appropriate action if warranted under Postal Service policies.
Sugar’s Future in the Neighborhood Remains Unclear
Davis said she does not know whether Sugar will eventually return to the Pasadena neighborhood where residents have become accustomed to seeing him.
For now, she said she would be satisfied knowing the peacock is safe and receiving proper care.
Sugar’s case also highlights a broader issue in California, where peacocks have become increasingly common in some residential communities.
Although the birds are admired for their striking appearance, they can also create problems for homeowners. Residents in some communities have reported aggressive behavior, droppings, vehicle damage and damage to homes associated with large peacock populations.
For Sugar’s neighbors, however, the immediate concern is simply seeing the beloved bird recover.
What do you think should happen if the allegations against the mail carrier are confirmed? Share your thoughts in the comments below.