Two colourful pet birds were left at the mercy of predators when they were dumped in a park.

The pair of kakarikis, both unable to fly due to their clipped wings, were found close to their open cage after it was abandoned at Byron Park in Harrow.

Fortunately a woman visiting the park found the two roaming near the cage on January 16 and managed to lure them inside before taking them home and contacting the RSPCA.

The pair were taken to the charity's Southridge centre, where staff have named them Sweetie and Pie as they await rehoming.

One of them was missing a toe and the charity says the vulnerable birds were at risk of death if left outside for a prolonged time.

RSPCA animal rescue officer Jade Guthrie, who collected the birds, said: “It appeared their wings had been clipped as they weren’t able to fly away, so whoever left them in this cruel manner may have been hoping they fell prey to a fox or some other predator.

“Certainly, if they hadn’t been found by this kind lady then anything could have happened to them.

“They may well have died had they been left outdoors overnight.”

According to the animal rescue charity, the red-crowned kakariki are one of three species of parakeet that are native to New Zealand.

Attempts to trace the owner have been made. Anyone with information is asked to ring the RSPCA on 0300 123 8018.

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