After saving some 425 birds from horrid conditions at a Belleville home on March 11, Associated Humane Societies is now looking for volunteers and donations to care for the birds until they find forever families.

Above is one small area of the house where birds were kept.

Officials from the Belleville Police and Health Departments contacted the Associated Humane Societies to handle an appalling situation regarding the hoarding, overcrowding, and poor care of over 450 caged birds.

The cages were stacked from floor to ceiling in every room. There were dogs in the kitchen and a cat in the bedroom. Old bird food and feces littered everything. Also found were a dead cat and at least 375 dead birds in the refrigerator.

Seven Society staffers removed the cages to waiting vans, which were brought to our Newark facility for immediate cleaning, feeding and watering. They were then taken to AHS Tinton Falls facility where the birds -- hybrids of all kinds, including canaries, parakeets, finches, parrots, cockatiels and conures -- are receiving exemplary care. 

According to Roseann Trezza, Executive Director, Associated Humane Societies/Popcorn Park, the effort is straining resources at the center. "The job is overwhelming. We have a vet who is donating her time to examine, take blood, and provide proper medication," Ms. Trezza said. "But feeding, cleaning and caring for 425 birds is overpowering.

"We are keeping the birds until the matter is adjudicated and so we must continue with the feeding, housing and caring for these birds in addition to all of the other animals that are waiting for adoption. Eventually the birds that are well enough will be available for adoption," Ms. Trezza said.

The Society has purchased huge sacks of quality bird seed, fresh fruits and vegetables so that these birds can improve to their optimum health.

The Society is now reaching out for help from anyone who is willing. The AHS is accepting adoption applications for the birds so that as soon as the matter is settled and the birds are healthy enough to be released, they can find a better life and new home.

But the need to help the Society help the birds is now.

Dedicated volunteers are needed to help clean cages, feed and water the birds. Volunteers can schedule their own times during operating hours, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., seven days a week.

Supporters also are asked to donate:
* Fresh fruits and vegetables.
* All types of bird seed, parrot chow, etc.
* Monetary donations to pay for blood and lab testing expenses

Donations can be dropped off at the Tinton Falls Animal Care Center, 2960 Shafto Road during operating hours. To volunteer to help care for the birds while at the shelter, call 732-922-0100.