Residents of a quiet Merritt Island neighborhood are learning to live with a new, colorful presence. A flock of peafowl has established itself in the area, drawing both admiration and frustration from those who now share their yards with the showy birds. The birds, which have been spotted near several homes on the east side of the island, have become a talking point at local gatherings and on social media. "They’re beautiful, but they’re also a bit of a nuisance," said one homeowner, who requested not to be named. "They dig up my lawn and leave feathers everywhere." The peafowl’s arrival has raised questions about wildlife management in the region. Brevard County officials have not yet commented on the situation, but similar cases in other parts of the state have led to calls for better strategies to handle non-native species. The birds, which are not native to Florida, are believed to have been released by previous owners or escaped from a private collection. Local wildlife experts say peafowl can thrive in the subtropical climate, but their presence often leads to conflicts with residents. "They’re not harmful, but they’re not exactly easy to live with," said a spokesperson for the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. The commission has not issued any immediate warnings about the birds, but advises residents to avoid feeding them and to keep pets indoors. Some residents have taken matters into their own hands, installing fencing and using deterrents to keep the birds away. Others have embraced the situation, posting photos of the peafowl on social media and even hosting small events to celebrate their presence. "They’re a unique part of our community now," said one resident. "I guess we’ll just have to learn to coexist."