Some peacocks that terrorised a town for years, scratching vehicles and damaging homes, have been found dead after locals branded them a "nuisance".
It is claimed their deaths could be result of angry locals who took "matters into their own hands".
According to reports, 30 of the birds caused problems for residents in the Ellenborough estate in Maryport, Cumbria, with some people complaining that their cars were ruined, adding that the animals were pecking front doors and damaging their kitchens.
Recently, three peacocks have been found dead, one from poisoning and two others after being hit by cars, a local animal sanctuary owner said.
Now, a rescue mission is underway to save the birds through an evacuation plan involving police and the fire service, but this has caused controversy among local residents.
The peacocks originally belonged to the Ellen Bank Hotel near Maryport but after it closed down, three of the birds found their way to Ellenborough, where locals named them Romeo, Juliet and Betty.
However, since then the peacock population continued to grow, and there are now around 30 of the birds, including a brood of eight that hatched recently under a boat in a back garden.
Local resident Kathryn Roberts, 31, loves the peacocks but says they often disturb her during the day, knocking on her front door to ask for food.
She said: "I'm one of those on the estate who likes to feed them so I don't mind.
"Their favourite is Cheerios, I always have a packet ready for when they're passing. They're very confident."
Alison Simmons added: "Oh gosh I wouldn't complain seeing them walking freely we need a bit more understanding, flowers will regrow these are stunning animals."
However, not everyone supports the peacock population with 26-year-old Luke Pearson saying: "They're a nuisance and need to go."
Animal sanctuary owner Mel James, who is coordinating the rescue mission, said: "I've been in touch with several stately homes and other open spaces around the country who would love to take the birds.
"Getting them there is a big logistical exercise because they're not easy to catch. It will mean road closures and the help of the police and fire brigade."
A Cumberland Council spokesman said: "Cumberland Council has received some complaints from local residents regarding the behaviour of some free-roaming peacocks in the Maryport area and our officers are currently working with other agencies to investigate these reports and gather information."
An RSPCA spokesperson said in a statement shared with The Mirror: "We have not been made aware of this but if anyone did kill or injure a peacock intentionally then we would urge anyone with first-hand information to contact us on 0300 1234 999.
"Poisoning of any animal is of great concern as it can cause awful and unnecessary suffering and also poses a risk to not just the target species but domestic pets like cats and dogs as well as wildlife."
