TWO exotic youngsters with a taste for adventure have sparked a frantic search of the countryside.

Eleanor and Keith Anderson have scoured the fields and woods near their home looking for two peacocks who have become part of their family.

Now the couple have made an impassioned plea to anyone who can help reunite them with the pair.

The birds have become the centre of attention at Norwood Stables, in Ramshaw, Bishop Auckland, County Durham, with their 11 companions. They even have their own home, with mirrors so they can admire themselves.

People drinking in the local pub have been known to enjoy the company of the unusual pets, who are partial to joining them for a sip or two and a sandwich in the beer garden.

Mrs Anderson said: "They are very social animals who enjoy being around people. A couple of the big males do like to go down to the local during the good weather and sit with people in the beer garden.''

The wandering twosome were last seen raiding the skips at nearby Cockfield tip but have now disappeared without trace.

Mrs Anderson, 41, said: "My husband was in the local pub when somebody told him that two of our peacocks were at Cockfield tip, but when we went to get them they had gone.

"We have contacted friends and neighbours on nearby farms but nobody seems to have seen them. We have even been to the police.

"We really want them back. They were born last year and are still only yearlings. Someone somewhere must have seen them.''

The rather unusual family have been a childhood dream of Mrs Anderson, who had always wanted a peacock as a pet.

She said: "I absolutely adore them. I have always had this thing about them from being little.''

Her dream became a reality when, five years ago, she bought a peacock and peahen from a friend.

She said: "My friend lived near a main road and could not let them out, so I bought them. I was told they would not mate, because it is very difficult to breed them. But last year they did and now I have 13.

"I have built them a little house on the farm and have put mirrors in it because they really love looking at themselves.''

The original peahen has since died but the male still rules the roost and is at his best when showing off in the stables yard.

Mrs Anderson said: "I love having them around. We throw stuff out for them and when we have a cup of coffee the oldest male comes and joins us.''

Mr Anderson, 49, has been scouring the area from early in the morning until late at night in a bid to find the pets.

Mrs Anderson said: "We have no idea where they have gone.''

Anyone who has seen the peachicks can contact her on (01388) 833233.