A desperate search has been launched for a beloved pet parrot who is feared to have blown away in storm-force winds.
Lexi, a rare Eclectus bird, vanished from her home in Blairgowrie as 70mph gusts swept across the region.
The two-year-old escaped on Tuesday morning while owner Angie Gray was taking out her bins and has not been seen since.
Angie said her two young sons five-year-old Jamie and Finlay, 3 have been left distraught.
“They say they miss Lexi because he’s red and blue like Spider-Man,” she said.
The 44-year-old hopes her bird has not flown too far. “She’s had her wings clipped but they’ve been growing back. She only really flew around inside the house, to perch on people’s shoulders, so she wouldn’t be used to flying outdoors.”
She said: “I was going out to the wheelie bin and I’d left the door ajar. It must have blown open because when I looked up I saw her flying over my head.
“It was blowing a gale at the time and she must have flown off course. The wind was so strong, she would have been completely disorientated.”
Angie added: “I really don’t know where she has got to. I’m surprised no one has seen or reported her because she’s such a distinctive colour.
“I don’t think she’s strong enough to fly into trees, so she might be sheltering in a garden somewhere.
“I really hope no one has taken her because the family is just heartbroken and we need to get her home.”
Lexi has stayed with the Gray family at their Arthur Street home for nearly two years. They bought her from a seller online, who was forced to give her up because of allergies.
Lexi is also known for her impressive vocabulary and can say phrases like “pretty girl” and “hello, baby”, as well as her own name. She is also a keen whistler.
She has been reported missing to the Scottish SPCA and her family have mounted an appeal on social media. This weekend, they plan to put up posters around the area.
“We’re asking people to keep an eye out for her,” she said. “If folk can check their gardens and any trees, that would be so appreciated.”
Angie has asked anyone who spots Lexi to contact her on 07845 160958.