Ostrich owner seeks justice after multiple birds are shot on Mojave ranch
Three of Mike Matson's ostriches were killed by gunfire on his Newberry Springs property, and a fourth died earlier after laying eggs.
Mike Matson, an ostrich breeder in Newberry Springs, reported that three of his birds were shot dead on his Mojave Desert ranch, with two dying on impact and a third dying shortly after from blood loss. The incidents occurred in June when.22-caliber ammunition was fired through the perimeter fence, according to investigators. A sheriff's department is probing the shootings, but no suspect has been apprehended.
Previously, an ostrich called Pebbles was discovered dead after she laid a nest of eggs, but the article does not link that death to gunfire. Matson, who also serves as vice president of the Newberry Springs Community Services District, has posted a $1,000 reward for information leading to an arrest. He suspects the attacks may be tied to ongoing disputes with neighboring residents over property issues and alleged egg theft.
Why it matters
The case highlights rural crime concerns and the safety of exotic livestock in desert communities.
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