BRIONY COSTER FROM LISKEARD FACES CHARGES OVER ANIMAL NEGLECT IN DEVON AND CORNWALL

In a case that has drawn attention to animal welfare concerns in the South West of England, Briony Coster, born around 1976, who has no fixed address but maintains connections to Liskeard in Cornwall and Paignton in Devon, was found guilty of neglecting her pet parrots in July 2018.

Coster had vacated a property in Liskeard, leaving behind two parrots in conditions that raised serious welfare issues. The first bird, an African grey parrot, was discovered in a filthy cage with stagnant water, indicating neglect and poor living conditions. The second, a blue and gold macaw, was found in a cluttered room, perched on a stand with some food and stale water, also left alone for a period of six days.

The neglect was uncovered when the landlord repossessed the property, prompting authorities to intervene. Both birds were underweight and in poor health when rescued, highlighting the severity of their neglect. They were taken to a veterinary clinic for examination and treatment.

The investigation was led by Suzy Hannaby, the deputy chief inspector of the RSPCA, who emphasized the importance of animal welfare and the responsibilities of pet owners. She stated, “There is never an excuse for simply walking away and leaving an animal to potentially face a long slow death from starvation. There is help available for those who, for whatever reason, find themselves unable to provide for their animals and we encourage people to seek out this help, rather than abandoning an animal.”

The two parrots, after receiving necessary care and treatment, are now in foster homes where they are recovering. Plans are underway to find them permanent, loving homes once they are fully rehabilitated.

In terms of legal consequences, Coster received a 12-month conditional discharge, along with fines and charges totaling £470. Additionally, she was banned from keeping any avian species for a period of two years, a ban that expired in 2020.

This case underscores the ongoing issues of animal neglect and the importance of responsible pet ownership, especially in regions like Cornwall and Devon where such incidents can have a profound impact on local communities and animal welfare organizations.