2 men charged in 'killing spree' of over 3,000 birds, including bald eagles, in Montana

Simon Paul and Travis John Branson were indicted for allegedly gunning down thousands of birds, including eagles protected by federal law, over the course of several years.

A bald eagle in Montana Mike Hill / Getty Images

 

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Dec. 13, 2023, 12:56 PM CST

By David K. Li

A grand jury indicted two men on charges of going on a yearslong "killing spree" of federally protected eagles and selling "this country's national symbol" on the black market, court documents revealed.

Simon Paul and Travis John Branson were each charged last week with one count of alleged conspiracy and 13 counts of violating the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act.

Federal prosecutors said they have messages from Branson stating that he was "committing felonies" and "telling buyers he was 'on a killing spree' to obtain eagle tail feathers for future sales."

Branson would travel from Washington state to the Flathead Indian Reservation in Montana to meet up with Paul who'd "help kill, transport and ship bald and golden eagles for future sales on the black market," according to the indictment.

Paul "was a 'shooter' and 'shipper' of bald and golden eagles" for his co-defendant, the indictment showed.

The bald eagle "is not merely a bird of biological interest, but this country's national symbol, which reflects America's ideals of freedom," according to the court papers.

"In total, the defendants killed approximately 3,600 birds, including eagles," the indictment said. "The defendants then illegally sold the eagles on the black market for significant sums of cash across the United States and elsewhere."

The killings took place between January of 2019 and March of 2021, the government said.

The indictment did not specify how many of the 3,600 killed birds were protected and a spokesperson for the U.S. Attorney's Office in Missoula declined to elaborate on Wednesday.

The defendants have not been arrested but they've been ordered to appear in court on Jan. 8, the government spokesperson said.

Branson, who has a listed address in Cusick, Washington, and Paul, from Ronan, Montana, did not immediately respond to NBC News requests for comment on Wednesday.

The top conspiracy count is punishable by up to five years in prison and a $250,000 fine. 

 

Understanding Parvo and Its Treatments

Introduction

Canine parvovirus, commonly known as parvo, is a highly contagious viral disease that can have severe effects on our beloved pets¹. It’s important for pet owners to understand the symptoms, treatments, and preventative measures associated with this disease.

What is Parvo?

Parvo in puppies is caused by the canine parvovirus¹. This virus is highly contagious and spreads through direct contact with an infected dog or by indirect contact with a contaminated object¹. Your puppy is exposed to the parvovirus every time he sniffs, licks, or consumes infected feces¹.

Symptoms of Parvo

The symptoms of parvovirus infection in children include a rash on the face that can spread to the arms, trunk, thighs, and buttocks, fever, upset stomach, headache, and runny nose². In adults, the symptoms include soreness of the joints mainly on the hands, wrists, knees, and ankles².

Diagnosis of Parvo

Diagnosis aims at confirming the presence of the virus either by testing for antigen or for the antibodies². Some of the tests used for diagnosis include Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), Hemagglutination assay, Electron microscopy, and Polymerase chain reaction (PCR)².

Treatment of Parvo

Treatment for parvo is primarily supportive care³. This often involves hospitalization and intensive nursing care³. General treatment involves intravenous fluids to rehydrate, antibiotics to prevent sepsis, and anti-emetics or anti-nausea drugs to combat nausea and vomiting³.

A standard treatment plan will include fluids, antibiotics, anti-nausea medicines, antacids, probiotics, vitamins, and electrolyte supplements. More severe cases could include glucose, tube feeding and as a last resort: blood transfusion⁴.

Prevention of Parvo

Prevention is the best way to protect your pet from parvo. This includes regular vaccinations and good hygiene practices. Puppies should receive a dose of canine parvovirus vaccine between 14 and 16 weeks of age, regardless of how many doses they received earlier, to develop adequate protection¹.

Conclusion

Parvo is a serious disease that can have devastating effects on our pets. However, with proper knowledge and preventative measures, we can protect our pets from this disease. Always consult with a professional if you suspect your pet has been exposed to parvo

African Grey Care 101: Your Guide to a Happy Healthier Parrot

 

Understanding African Grey Parrots

1. • African Grey Species: A Diversity of Nature's Beauty African Grey parrots showcase remarkable diversity, from the vibrant Congo African Grey to the striking Timneh African Grey. Understanding these species' unique characteristics is essential, enabling enthusiasts to appreciate their individual beauty and personality traits.

   • African Grey Habitat: Replicating the Wild Environment Recreating a natural habitat within their enclosure involves thoughtful placement of perches, diverse textures, and appropriate lighting. An enriched environment not only promotes physical activity but also provides mental stimulation, fostering their natural curiosity and exploration instincts.

   • African Grey Intelligence: Exploring Cognitive Abilities Delving into their exceptional intelligence reveals problem-solving skills and emotional depth. Engaging them in interactive games and puzzles nurtures their cognitive abilities, enhancing their mental acuity and ensuring they lead intellectually stimulating lives.

   • African Grey Behavior: Insights into Social and Emotional Traits Studying their intricate social behaviors sheds light on their need for companionship and emotional connection. Observing their interactions within a social setting, both with humans and other parrots, offers valuable insights into their social dynamics, strengthening the bond between caregivers and their African Grey companions.

   • African Grey Talking: Communicating with Your Parrot Effectively Mastering effective communication involves patience and consistency. Learning their body language and vocal cues establishes a unique form of understanding. Through positive reinforcement and encouragement, caregivers can nurture their parrot's ability to communicate, creating a harmonious and enriching relationship.

2. A Nutritional Guide for a Healthy African Grey

   African Grey Diet: Crafting a Balanced and Nutritious Menu Crafting a diverse diet rich in organic fruits, vegetables, and high-quality pellets ensures essential nutrients. Incorporating a variety of textures and flavors not only meets their dietary needs but also indulges their taste buds, promoting a healthy appetite and overall well-being.

   • The Role of Supplements in African Grey Nutrition Supplements play a supportive role in their diet, enhancing specific nutritional aspects. Carefully administered supplements, such as calcium for bone health, contribute to their overall vitality. Consulting with avian specialists ensures a tailored approach, addressing individual dietary requirements effectively.

   • Hydration and the African Grey: Importance of Fresh Water Providing access to fresh water is fundamental for hydration and digestion. Monitoring their water intake, especially during warmer months, ensures they remain adequately hydrated. Clean water, changed daily, is a simple yet crucial aspect of their care routine, promoting their overall health and well-being.

   • Avoiding Harmful Foods: What Not to Feed Your African Grey Awareness of toxic foods is paramount. Educating caregivers about foods like chocolate, caffeine, and high-sodium treats prevents accidental ingestion. Implementing a parrot-safe environment by eliminating these hazards ensures their safety and fosters a secure living space.

   • Special Diets for African Grey: Catering to Individual Needs Some African Greys may have unique dietary needs due to health conditions. Working closely with avian veterinarians helps tailor diets to address specific concerns. Customized nutrition plans, focusing on their health requirements, promote optimal physical condition and longevity.

   

    

3. Creating a Safe and Stimulating Environment

   • African Grey Care Essentials: Grooming and Health Checks Routine grooming sessions, including feather checks and beak trims, are essential for their hygiene. Regular health checks by avian veterinarians, encompassing physical examinations and screenings, detect potential issues early, ensuring timely intervention and promoting their overall health.

   • Enrichment Activities: Keeping Your African Grey Mentally Sharp Enrichment activities are vital for mental stimulation. Rotating toys, introducing puzzles, and incorporating foraging opportunities engage their cognitive skills. These activities mimic their natural behaviors, preventing boredom and encouraging their problem-solving abilities, enriching their daily lives significantly.

   • The Importance of Socialization for African Grey Parrots Socialization experiences, including interactions with trusted humans and exposure to various environments, foster their social confidence. Positive social encounters, such as supervised playtime and gentle handling, nurture their social bonds, alleviating stress and anxiety, ensuring they thrive in their home environment.

   • Safe Toys and Accessories: Choosing the Right Enrichment Tools Investing in safe toys made from non-toxic materials ensures their well-being. Toys that encourage exploration and physical activity, like puzzle feeders and climbing structures, provide hours of entertainment. Careful selection of accessories prevents accidents, creating a secure environment that promotes their physical and mental health.

   • Managing Stress: Providing a Calm and Comfortable Living Space A serene living space is essential for African Greys. Creating a peaceful environment involves minimizing sudden loud noises, maintaining a consistent daily routine, and offering a secure enclosure. These measures reduce stress, promoting a sense of security and well-being for these intelligent and sensitive companions.

These expanded outlines provide a more detailed overview while adhering to the format you requested. If you have any specific sections you would like to explore further, please let me know!