Fire Kills Hundreds of Birds at Gilcrease Nature Sanctuary (NV)

[Donna]

LAS VEGAS -- Hundreds of rare and exotic birds were killed in an early morning fire at the Gilcrease Nature Sanctuary near Durango and Racel.

The two alarm fire broke out just after 5 a.m. Friday. Dozens of people have come to help clean up and lend their supports.

The sanctuary is a landmark for animal lovers. It's been around since the 1970's.

Firefighters couldn't do anything to save two buildings at the sanctuary housing nearly 300 birds. The fire just spread too quick.

"Oscar Gilcrease was actually here and he heard the fire and the popping noise and he ran out and he tried to contain the fire. They called the fire department, but the wind picked it up and moved from one building to another," said Director Sandra Salinas.

Clark County Fire Investigators are still looking for the cause, but witnesses believe the wind played a role.

Volunteers came from all around the community to help anyway they can.

"I'm an out-of-work union worker and just doing nothing, so I came over here to help," said Harold Morgan.

"We heard on the news this place had burned down and we were like, 'Wow, we've got to help,'" said Darel Ferguson.

Over 1,500 animals of all kinds were at the sanctuary.

Employees estimate their loss at more than $2 million, but right now their concern is the birds lost in the fire and helping those that survived.

If you can help out or make a donation, call (702) 645-4224.