Baby parrot stolen from Omar's Exotic Birds in Orange County found

LAKE FOREST, Calif. (KABC) -- Investigators recovered an expensive baby parrot in Arizona that was stolen from a Lake Forest store.

Orange County deputies found and returned the Apricot Headed Caique to employees at Omar's Exotic Birds on Friday, but are continuing to search for the burglar.

The suspect staked out the place until workers helped other customers on Wednesday, then took off his hat, scooped the bird into the hat and ran for the door, according to employees.

Deputies said the suspect jumped in a white, small four-door vehicle with Arizona plates.

Officials said a woman with blonde hair was driving and was last seen heading toward the 5 Freeway.

Employees were relieved as the bird, valued at more than $1,000, was 4 months old and is still being hand-fed formula.