Stolen bird worth $10K returned to owner

Monday, July 23, 2018
HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) -- A bird worth $10,000 was returned to its owner after being stolen from a dance studio in the Heights.

"I am beyond thrilled and so thankful," said Shawn Welling, the bird's owner.

WATCH: Here's the sweet return of Grover and its owner

Birth worth $10K returned to owner


Welling says his blue macaw named Grover was stolen from his atrium around 8:50 p.m. Friday. Both doors to the cage were open and the bird's food bowl was placed on top.



The bird's disappearance prompted a frantic search to find him and posts on social media eventually reached a Houston man who claims he bought the bird on the street a few days ago for $600.

"I saw the bird was actually in need of someone who knew how to take care of a bird, because the guy that had it was feeding it salted sunflower seeds and stuff," the man said.
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Grover has been part of his family for 13 years.

Surveillance video was able to capture Welling's dog barking at the intruder.
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The owner of the bird told ABC13 that Grover is like one of their family members.

"To the person who took this bird, you have done more than just take a bird from his sanity and sanctity. You have destroyed a home," said Welling.

One of the family members offered a $10,000 reward for its return. The bird was reunited with Welling Monday afternoon.



Welling said he plans to install a fence around his property immediately to add an extra layer of security to his home.

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