Shropshire could be a target for canary thieves, warn police
Canaries are being stolen and sold for up to £40, police officers in the Midlands have warned.
Breeders have been targeted in the region. At least two thefts have happened in parts of Walsall and officers believe Shropshire us also being targeted.
Officers are now urging canary breeders to step up their security, but are also appealing to neighbours to be vigilant.
It comes after an aviary with 30 canaries and chicks was broken into in Little Bloxwich and then thieves targeted an elderly breeder in Leamore four days later.
On the second occasion there were three aviaries smashed into and saw a number of birds stolen.
Sgt Debbie Gallon, from West Midlands Police, said: "Both breeders had security in place but with canaries being advertised for sale online at around £20 each, we'd advise others in the business to consider taking any extra measures they can and would ask neighbours to be on the look-out for any suspicious activity.
"We've spoken to a local breeder's association who say unfortunately, these types of thefts are quite common, with the birds being sold at auction for up to £40 each.
"It's possible breeders are not reporting them to us and I would urge anyone else who has been targeted to let us know."
