Rare toucans missing from aviary at Cypress Gardens

Moncks Corner — Jack and Jill definitely did not go up the hill to fetch a pail of water.

But what did happen to the two Swainson's Central American toucans missing from Cypress Gardens is a mystery.

Dwight Williams, Cypress Gardens director, said the two birds disappeared late Sunday night or early Monday. The disappearance was reported to the Berkeley County Sheriff's Office.

Jack and Jill, who are about 13 years old, presumably were stolen from an outdoor aviary. Williams said there were no signs of forced entry.

Although the birds can fly, he said, it is unlikely that Jack and Jill flew the coop.

"They are fairly tame birds," he said. "They would have to go through three doors to get outside."

Cypress Gardens officials are concerned about the safety of the rare birds, which require special food. Whoever took them might not know that, Williams said. "That might endanger their lives."

Kelly Smith, curator of birds and fishes at Cypress Gardens, grew fond of the birds over the years and remembers how Jack loved to have his beak tickled and how Jill loved snuggling up next to Jack.

Smith said the Cypress Gardens community is devastated.

"I've been an emotional wreck," she said. "It's very heartbreaking to know that two happy, healthy animals have been ripped from their homes."

She wrote in an e-mail that the two birds are not valuable because they are too old to breed.

Cypress Gardens officials have alerted veterinarians, pet shops, animal dealers and toucan breeders about the disappearance.

Smith Smith said Cypress Gardens does not want to press charges, hoping that Jack and Jill will be returned to them safe and healthy.

"We're afraid they may not make it through this ordeal," she said.

Reach Jasiri Whipper at jwhipper@postandcourier.com or 745-5863.