FOR decades, Museum Gardens in York has echoed to the shriek of the peacock. Now there is a danger this sound will disappear. Only one of these regal birds is thought to remain.

Concern has been expressed about the decline of the peacock population far and near. An American family has even sent a heartfelt letter on the subject.

The ravens at the Tower of London are such a feature that special measures are taken to ensure they stay put. The Museum Gardens peacocks are almost as famous. It must be hoped that a way of saving them can be found.

Updated: 12:13 Monday, February 26, 2001