AN EXPERT parrot rescue team has been dispatched to Bridgwater this morning (January 17) in a race against time to capture a parrot.

The Mercury reported here how John Reade, of Taunton Road, was horrified when his green and yellow Senegal Parrot darted out the front door on Monday (January 14).

The parrot, called Rainbow, was spotted in King Square outside Corner House Dental Practice yesterday, but despite efforts from dental staff, Mr Reade, and volunteers from Secret World Wildlife Rescue, the parrot is still on the loose.

Now a team of five experts from Birdline UK Parrot Rescue, who John was fostering Rainbow for, has been sent out from Devon to try and track and recover the bird.

Mr Reade told the Mercury: “We almost caught him yesterday. I was within six feet of him and he even danced for me, but wouldn’t come down from a tree. He flew towards the river, down by Bristol Road.

“Birdline said they will be conducting a search by St Mary’s grave yard this morning because people have seen Rainbow roosting there at night.

“I’d like to thank all the Mercury readers for their help. My phone has been ringing off the hook with sightings.

“I just feel it’s a race against time to save him now, since the snow is expected to come in tomorrow.”

If anyone spots Rainbow, call John on 01278-422334 or Birdline on 0845 643 1785.