Local Hotel Investigates Disappearance of Peacocks

An unusual situation has unfolded at a California hotel, with local officials looking into the strange disappearance of numerous peacocks. Last week, The Rider Hotel in Walnut Grove reported losing 37 of its peacocks, prompting concern and investigation by the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO).

General Manager David Nielsen expressed his shock, stating, “When we walked through the property, we saw that we lost 37 of the 40 peacocks over the last few days.” The hotel staff, he noted, is understandably devastated by this loss.

As the staff began to notice the gradual vanishing of the birds, Nielsen shared a troubling concern: he suspects the peacocks might have been stolen for bullfighting. “It’s possible that these peacocks are being used in bullfighting, but this is scary, so we hope to get them back,” he remarked.

Located about 30 miles south of Sacramento, the hotel has been home to peacocks for generations. Rafe Goorwitch, the hotel’s catering coordinator, indicated that the current owner, who bought the hotel 14 years ago, introduced the birds to the property. Since then, they have been a familiar sight, often seen wandering the lobby or perched in trees nearby.

Interestingly, one of the peacocks was affectionately named “Alibaba,” reflecting the personal connection staff feel towards the birds. Goorwitch noted, “It wasn’t uncommon for him to walk through the ballroom before a wedding or a dining room.” He added, “I know they’re just birds, but Alibaba was really special.”

These peacocks, valued at thousands of dollars each, fall under property crime laws, making this loss even more significant. Male peacocks can be worth around $2,000 while females go for about $1,000, as reported by Amal Gandhi. Anyone with information regarding the missing peacocks is urged to contact the hotel or the local sheriff’s station.

In a concerning twist, Nielsen pointed out that one of the remaining peacocks was missing its tail feathers, suggesting that it might have been the target of an attempted theft. To further protect the remaining birds, the hotel has installed security cameras around the property.

Goorwitch described the situation as “a stab wound in the heart,” underscoring the emotional impact of the losses on the staff and the community.