A heartfelt search effort is underway across Krugersdorp as residents unite to help bring home a missing pet parrot named Havi, who escaped from his home on April 25.

His owner has been tirelessly co-ordinating and mobilising groups, and appealing to the public for help, turning a personal crisis into a powerful example of community support.

Havi’s disappearance happened unexpectedly. While his owner, Andre-Juan le Sueur, was at work in Greenside, Havi’s cage door was left open after a routine cleaning at home. Havi climbed down and flew out through the back door.

By the time his owner rushed back to Shannon Road in Krugersdorp, Havi was already gone. Despite hours spent walking the surrounding streets and calling out, there was no sign of him.

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Later that same afternoon, a sighting was reported in Katherine Street. Another followed on Lindhout Street, but with a nearly dead phone battery and little time, Andre-Juan was unable to reach the exact locations.

Over the following days, multiple sightings painted a hopeful picture:

• On May 2, Havi was heard calling near Woodstream Lofts in Noordheuwel
• On May 3, residents reported seeing a green-winged parrot in Kenmare, around Patrick Road
• On May 4, a possible sighting near Monument Primary School on Sarel Potgieter Road

These reports suggest Havi may be moving between familiar areas, possibly attempting to find his way back home.

“The response from the community has been overwhelming. Residents have shared posts, kept watch in their neighbourhoods, and reported sightings with care and urgency. Social media groups across Noordheuwel, Monument, Kenmare, and Rangeview have played a key role in spreading awareness,” said Andre-Juan.

However, the situation has also highlighted a darker side of scammers exploiting the owner’s distress. Two individuals falsely claimed to have found Havi and demanded money. One of these scams succeeded, underscoring the vulnerability of pet owners in such emotional situations.

How to help safely

Those who spot Havi are urged to remain calm and avoid chasing him, as sudden movements can cause him to fly away.

Instead:

• Stay still and keep movements slow
• Speak gently in a calm voice
• Offer food such as apple slices, grapes, pieces of banana, or seeds
• Allow him to approach at his own pace
• If he lands nearby, offer a hand or perch slowly

“Patience is key. Havi is used to people and may respond to a calm, friendly presence.”

A reward of R1 500 is being offered for Havi’s safe return. In addition, tattoo artist Roger Lambert from Linden has pledged a one-hour tattoo session to anyone who successfully helps bring Havi home.

More than 10 days have passed since Havi went missing, but hope remains strong. With continued vigilance and community support, his owner believes it’s still possible to bring him back safely.

Anyone with information or sightings is encouraged to come forward and contact Andre-Juan on 078 027 5948.