Chickens, Turkeys, and Rabbits, Oh My!
We’ve taken in quite a few new residents in the last month! Meet everyone new to the Sanctuary and learn a little about where they came from.
First, we were contacted by the Ulster County SPCA regarding the intake of 11 Red Star hens surrendered by a caretaker who was no longer able to provide the care they needed. The hens had been free roaming on the property, which initially prevented an accurate count; when the group arrived, we learned there were 13!
The SPCA drove them here and we began unloading everyone and completing their initial exams. Next, we started testing to determine what treatment they would need. Many people don’t know this, but chickens are some of the most fragile and medically complex animals we rescue! We’re calling this group the “Star Flock.”
New hens in the UCSPCA van being unloaded
The Star Flock settled into their temporary space as we treated them for any parasites that came back in their testing. They’re a chatty and friendly group of birds and we’re glad to be able to provide them a safe place to live. This breed lays a lot of eggs, meaning that we will need to monitor them closely for reproductive issues.
Next, we were contacted about a sweet turkey in a sad situation. Trudy had been attacked by foxes twice, chased and harassed by children who wanted to color and decorate her feathers, and was wounded several times in fights with roosters. She was still healing from those wounds when we met her. She was also dangerously overweight and very lonely. Trudy had never lived with other turkeys and was so lonely that she would call out all day long.
Newly arrived turkey Trudy
Trudy is now on a diet to help her reach a healthy weight so she can be comfortable and mobile. She’s begun to lose weight and is less pale! Even more exciting: after her quarantine she got to move in with fellow turkeys Cher, Tai, and Dionne! Trudy is getting to know their group, taking time to heal, and soaking up the sun.
Trudy in her quarantine pen with Caregiver Ally
Lastly, we welcomed a new little bun to the Roxwell Rabbit Barn!
Lora was originally bought at auction to be used to train hunting dogs. We’ve had rabbits rescued from this situation before and it’s one of the things folks on tours find hardest to believe! Fortunately, the person who bought her had a change of heart. They tried to keep her but still weren't able to provide proper care or shelter for Lora. She was kept outside during the cold winter months and was not fed a proper diet.
Thankfully, a kind person who was aware of the situation stepped in and contacted Henry's Haven Animal Sanctuary to see if they could help. Henry’s Haven messaged us, and luckily we had bunny barn room! Henry’s Haven helped get Lora all the testing and vetting she needed before her journey to us.
Lora at the Roxwell Rabbit Barn
All the new faces at Woodstock Farm Sanctuary in the past month are because YOU make these rescues happen! To donate towards the care of our newest rescues, you can send support here. Trudy, Lora, and the Star Flock are grateful for how much you care. Keep up with the latest on these residents by sponsoring one or all of them!