A fire broke out at Second Chance Wildlife Sanctuary in Orange County, Florida early Monday morning, killing nearly three dozen animals. Neighbors reported the fire around 1:30 a.m; crews responded with water trucks because the fire was in a rural area. The blaze was extinguished by 3 a.m.
According to Orange County Fire Rescue, the homeowner was asleep in the two-story home and was awakened by the 80 peacocks on property. The owner was able to save a few of the animals that were inside, according to firefighters. The owner said 33 animals, including three dogs, cats, snakes and four 300-pound tortoises, were killed in the fire, OCFR said.
As many as 350 animals, including iguanas, parrots, swans, ducks, goats, pigs, house pets and others, were cared for at Second Chance Wildlife Sanctuary.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
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