I think this is real since I've heard it from two sources, but there is a large bird (a Rhea, ostrich-like) that has been spotted near the village. The following might help if you spot it...

Dear Supporter,

A stray rhea has recently been seen in the Cambridge area near the villages of Thriplow, Fowlmere, Shepreth and Newton. The owner has asked for our help to catch the bird before it gets injured or shot. We had success in catching three rheas from different areas in 2015 - all of whom are now living happily at Hillside so are keen to help with this big bird.

If you should see the bird, please could you contact us urgently on 01603 736200. Please do not attempt to catch it as they have very powerful claws which could do damage if the bird is frightened. Also please don't approach the rhea as this may scare her away and make her harder to find again.

We would be grateful if you could let us know immediately if you see her as we are on standby to go out and bring her to safety. Thank you for your help with this.

                                                 Kind regards, 
                                                          Wendy Valentine (founder)

Hillside is home to 1600 Rescued Horses, Ponies and Donkeys, 300 Rescued Cows, 600 Sheep and Goats, 200 Pigs and lots of other rescued animals including 5 rheas...

Patron: Martin Shaw

Hillside Animal Sanctuary
Hill Top Farm
Frettenham
Norwich
NR12 7LT