More than 300 pigeons were discovered living in squalid conditions inside a Wilkes-Barre home, forcing animal rescuers to intervene in what they described as the most severe animal hoarding case they have ever encountered.

Teams from the Pocono Wildlife Rehabilitation and Education Center conducted the rescue on Tuesday, reporting birds in nearly every location in the house, from under mattresses and on top of cabinets to corners and floors covered in waste.

Rescuers said the floors were sagging due to the long-term accumulation of droppings and waste. An overwhelming stench filled the entire living space.

A total of 318 birds were removed from the home. Many were malnourished, with broken beaks and leg injuries. Twelve birds were beyond help and had to be humanely euthanized.

The rescue unit stated this was a rare, large-scale bird hoarding case, far exceeding previous animal rescues. The homeowner is an elderly woman living alone who had gone unchecked and unsupported by relatives for a long time.

The center is currently calling on the community to adopt the remaining 306 birds, aiming to provide them with a more suitable and safe environment.

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