On Thursday December 29, Reh, a three-year-old pet starling, was blown from his home near the end of Richard's Beach Road/Bannockburn Road area, and is still missing.

Hand-fed and raised by Hayley Carson since he was abandoned by his parents (after falling from his nest as a chick), the bird is a much loved member of the family.

He is unable to fly well and an extremely strong gust of wind blew him from his perch while having his food and water refreshed, and out an open door.  

Despite chasing after him, Hayley and her mother were unable to catch him. 

“He tried several times to fly back to us, but the more he tried, the further away he seemed to go. We kept calling for him and trying to see where the wind would take him,” Hayley said.

They have searched along the rail trails, through nearby neighbours’ properties, around trees and shrubbery as well as looking up and down the opposite side of the Kawarau River along where the vineyards and rail trail are, but with no luck to date.

Alan Parker from Avian Rescue has advised them to move Reh’s cage outside, with food and water to attract him. 

“It may also help playing some of his sounds that he responds to,” Alan said.

Starlings are accomplished mimics

As a young bird, Reh (named after the sound starlings make – sounds like “reeah”), quickly learnt to copy words and phrases and started using them frequently, along with a bunch of his own tunes and chatter. 

His favourite conversations include "Hi Reh”, "You a good boy", "Come on", the odd dog bark - and the occasional swear word. 

If anyone sees or hears Reh, Hayley’s sister Renee Carson would appreciate any information. Her number is 027 410 3571.

“Our whole family is devastated. Reh is a big part of our lives and we really hope he is found soon.”