A GREY cockatiel is feeling blue after escaping from his home.

Ozzy was rescued by a passer-by who found him in the street after apparently flying away from his owner's home or aviary.

The young bird, thought to be male, was found in Addison Road, Toronto, on Friday, and taken to Wilson's Veterinary Group, in Bishop Auckland.

Now staff at the practice are hoping to reunite Ozzy, so named because the breed originates from Australia, with his owner or find him a new home.

Veterinary nurse Penny Blythe said: "He is a bonny bird, with bright red cheeks, is very chirpy and in good condition.

"We would love to hear from his owner if he has been lost, but anyone looking to give him a new home should be able to provide a large cage or aviary and have experience with birds.

"Cockatiels need a lot of handling and stimulation to keep them tame, but can give a lot of pleasure."

Anyone interested can call (01388) 602707.