Mojave Desert rancher targets justice after ostrich killings

Authorities in San Bernardino County are investigating a series of shootings targeting ostriches on a ranch in Newberry Springs, located in the Mojave Desert. Mike Matson, a local politician and exotic animal breeder, reported that several of his birds have been killed by gunfire over recent months.

In one incident in June, .22-caliber rounds were fired through a perimeter fence, killing two ostriches instantly and causing a third to die from blood loss. This followed a previous incident where another ostrich was killed after laying a nest of eggs.

The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department is investigating the killings, but no arrests have been made. In response to the attacks, Matson has posted a $1,000 reward for information leading to an arrest.