Nearly a month after being injured in an alleged mail truck hit-and-run, Pasadena’s celebrated white peacock has been moved to a private ranch for a quieter life.
Sugar, the white peacock, was transferred to a private ranch in Northern California after recovering from injuries he reportedly suffered during an August encounter with a U.S. Postal Service worker.
The popular bird was allegedly pursued and attacked by a mail carrier, leaving him struggling on the ground. Video recorded in a Pasadena neighborhood appeared to show the worker repeatedly going after Sugar instead of simply driving him away.
The postal employee was also seen swinging a stick at the peacock multiple times.
“After carefully considering what would be best for his long-term wellbeing, our wildlife experts determined that relocation would offer him the best quality of life and help reduce the risk of future negative encounters given the significant public attention surrounding his case,” Pasadena Humane said Wednesday.
“We know so many of you have been following Sugar’s story and rooting for his recovery, and we’re incredibly grateful for the care and concern you’ve shown him,” the organization added.
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The August incident sparked outrage among local residents. “Did you report the mailman? What an awful human!!” one person wrote in a Facebook comment.
“Pure evil. I hope that mailman gets fired,” another commenter wrote.
After the alleged attack, Sugar was taken to the Pasadena Humane Society for medical care. Veterinarians found swelling and several minor injuries, although X-rays confirmed that he had no broken bones.
Founded in 1903, Pasadena Humane is a nonprofit animal welfare organization based in Pasadena that also serves several surrounding communities.
The organization has completed its investigation and referred the matter to the District Attorney for “review and consideration of formal charges.”
