During a recent government meeting, Lamar Gearhart from Gila, New Mexico, raised concerns regarding a growing peacock population in his neighborhood, which has expanded from a couple of birds to approximately ten, with predictions of reaching twenty in the near future. Gearhart highlighted the challenges of managing these birds, particularly due to their ability to fly up to 20 feet high, making it difficult to fence them out as required by local livestock regulations.

Gearhart explained that while he and his landlord are exploring solutions, including the construction of a small aviary with a 100-foot flyway, the costs and logistics of fencing out the peacocks are daunting. He expressed concerns about the potential health risks associated with the birds, noting that they can carry diseases such as avian flu, which could pose a threat to his health as a grower.

He suggested that local ordinances could be established to hold peacock owners accountable for managing their birds, similar to existing regulations for other livestock like horses and cows. Gearhart emphasized the need for a balanced approach that allows for the birds' free range while also ensuring they do not become a nuisance or health hazard to neighbors. He proposed a system where owners could allow their peacocks some outdoor time while keeping them contained, thereby addressing both the welfare of the birds and the concerns of the community.