A thirteen year old, two metre long diamond python called "Goldie" and 15 rare birds are still missing, after police named a man allegedly linked to the theft of wildlife worth thousands of dollars from a Batemans Bay wildlife sanctuary.
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Goldie is one of two diamond pythons and a carpet snake worth $2000 that were stolen from Birdland Animal Park in October which followed the theft of 50 rare birds worth about $6000 in September and six snakes in May 2013.
Far South Coast police said they are looking for 26 year old man Trent Lovegrove on two outstanding warrants, the latest issued on November 26 by Batemans Bay Local Court in relation to the thefts.
Police have now recovered two of the snakes and 35 of the missing birds, but "some of the indian ringnecks, cockatiels and also a couple of finches" were yet to be found according to Karen Best, Head Ranger at Birdland.
She said staff at the park are devastated and believe Goldie and the 15 birds still missing have been traumatised by the experience.
"The thing is, the trauma that they put the birds under and I mean the value to us is that they are part of our family, they are well loved birds," Ms Best said.
She said Goldie was tame and a favourite with school children.
"She's a snake that is trusted, we have had her here for years. We can do the educational displays with the children with her and she is 100 per cent safe."
Ms Best also said staff felt a real sense of responsibility towards the animals.
"Some of the birds have been entrusted to us to care for because their circumstances change and people here enjoy their company and love seeing them so it is like our duty of care is being interfered with," she said.
She said the park has since been forced to spend hundreds on new security.
"We are concerned about her welfare, and just want her back at the park," Ms Best said.
Mr Lovegrove's last known addresses were in Batemans Bay and Nyngan.
Police are urging anyone with information to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or use the Crime Stoppers online reporting page: https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au/.
