Rare Bird Named Harvey Captivates Downtown Kent

A distinctive pigeon with shimmering green and purple feathers has taken up residence outside Jason’s Barber Shop on East Erie Street in Kent, drawing attention from locals and bird experts alike.

Jason Fabick, owner of Jason’s Barber Shop on E. Erie Street, said he stepped outside between haircuts and noticed the unique pigeon with distinctive shimmering green and purple tinted black and white feathers about three weeks ago.

The downtown Kent community has embraced their feathered visitor, naming the bird Harvey after a well-liked man in town who recently passed away. The pigeon appears comfortable around people and has made the barber shop area his temporary home.

However, residents are growing concerned about Harvey’s wellbeing. “He is obviously lost,” said Crocker. “He has a tag on his leg.”

For weeks, community members have been reaching out to animal control agencies, bird groups and sanctuaries seeking answers about Harvey’s origins. “We called the National Pigeon Association. Yes, there is one, and they said get close enough to read the tag, but there’s no number on the tag,” Fabick said.

Experts who have examined photos believe Harvey may be either a Romanian racing pigeon or a “Hungarian Budapest Whiteflight Highflyer.” Both are considered specialty breeds that are typically domesticated and may struggle to survive in the wild.

Concerned residents have been providing Harvey with food and fresh water daily, but worry about his safety, especially at night. “He just perches up on the windowsill up there in the corner and is just kind of huddled. So I just feel like he’s always scared,” Crocker said.

The busy college town environment, with students and loud music in the area, appears to frighten the bird during evening hours.

The community is hoping Harvey’s owner or a bird sanctuary will come forward to help. They want to ensure the special bird finds a safe environment where he can socialize with other birds and receive proper care.

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