Mystery Peacock Roams Near Tennessee Real Estate Office
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — A striking peacock has been seen wandering freely near a real estate office in Knoxville, sparking curiosity and concern among local residents and workers. The bird was first spotted near Ferguson Realtors, located close to the intersection of Pellissippi Parkway and Kingston Pike, an area not known for wild peacock populations. Videos captured by Baily Bowers and Melissa Davis, a Realtor at the office, show the vibrant bird calmly exploring the vicinity on Wednesday, drawing amused attention from passersby and employees alike. “Look who stopped by the office today,” Davis posted on social media, joking that even peacocks are checking out Knoxville real estate opportunities.
Peacocks are native to South Asia and are not indigenous to the United States, with no established wild populations in Tennessee or the surrounding region. Their presence in residential or commercial areas is usually linked to private ownership or escape from captivity. The origins of this particular peacock remain unknown, and authorities have yet to determine how it came to be roaming the neighborhood.
The City of Knoxville has urged anyone who encounters the bird to contact the Young-Williams Animal Center, which manages animal services for the city. Animal control officials are prepared to safely capture and care for the bird to prevent any potential hazards to both the peacock and the public. The center’s efforts align with broader animal welfare protocols recommended by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, which oversees regulations concerning exotic and non-native species.
While the peacock’s presence has sparked lighthearted social media posts and local intrigue, it also highlights the challenges communities face when non-native animals appear unexpectedly. Similar incidents have occurred across the country, where escaped exotic pets or ornamental birds have been found wandering in urban or suburban settings. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service provides guidelines on managing such wildlife encounters to protect native ecosystems and ensure public safety.
Local residents are advised to avoid approaching or attempting to capture the bird themselves, as peacocks can be unpredictable and may become stressed. Instead, reporting sightings to the Young-Williams Animal Center allows trained professionals to respond appropriately. The center’s website offers resources for reporting lost or found animals and information on how to assist in such situations.
As the search for the peacock’s owner or caretaker continues, the community remains captivated by the unexpected visitor. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible pet ownership and the need for vigilance when exotic animals are involved. For updates and guidance, residents can visit the official Knoxville Animal Services page, which provides contact information and animal control resources.
In the meantime, the peacock’s brief sojourn near the real estate office has brought a splash of color and a touch of whimsy to the daily routine of those in the area, leaving many to wonder about the bird’s next stop.
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