Barking parrots go on patrol

A pair of protective parrots are proving effective guard dogs for a Telford security firm – after learning how to bark.

'Guard Parrots' Elvis and Cilla have been stationed outside RMP Guarding in Stafford Park by bosses Trevor and Louise Bate.

Signs around the firm's premises warn would-be thieves that 'these premises are being patrolled by RMP Guarding security'. But the ferocious barking beasts are merely the two green winged Macaws squawking away from their perches.

The feathery crime foilers also tell people they do not recognise to 'go away', but show a softer side when offered treats by crying out 'fabulous'.

Mr Bate, 44, said: "They picked it up (the barking) when we lived in Spain, our neighbour had a Scottie dog called Bailey and it would bark all the time. His owner would come out and shout at him.

"Once we returned to the UK, we thought this would be an ideal way of saving money on a guard dog. They do a pretty good impression and it certainly does the trick.

"It really surprises people when they find out the noise isn't coming from a dog at all, but from these colourful little guys. And they really find it hilarious when they say 'go away' in a high-pitched squawk.

The birds, aged six and three, are named after Elvis Presley and his wife.