Beloved parrot swiped from home

LA CIENEGA, N.M. (KRQE) - A devastating loss for a La Cienega man whose long time pal Shaka was taken during a burglary at his home.

Charlie Engelke, 69 said he went out for a few hours to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day last Thursday and when he came home he received the shock of a lifetime.

“Everything was just torn to hell, shredded up and I go goodness gracious Shaka and he wasn’t around,” Engelke said.

Shaka is Engelke’s 18-year-old African Congo Grey Parrot. He was spoon-fed and hand-raised by Engelke and his wife, who has since passed away.

Engelke said the culprit broke in through a back bedroom window.  In addition to Shaka, the burglar also got away with tools and personal papers.

“Doesn’t mean anything, the tools they took, I can always replace those.  I didn’t need much, but I do need him,” Engelke said.

Parrots like Shaka can cost upwards of $1,300, which makes Engelke think the burglar was out to make a quick buck.

“It’s just like somebody knew and had an order for a special bird and they went and got him,” Engelke said.

Officers have some leads but are still investigating the thefts.

There is a $100 dollar reward for Shaka’s safe return.

Anyone with information is asked to called Engelke directly at (505) 819-7527