Over 12,000 baby birds were discovered in early May inside a parked USPS truck at the Delaware Processing and Distribution Center.
The chicks, which had been trapped for three days without food or water, were meant for delivery across the country from Pennsylvania-based Freedom Ranger Hatchery.
Tragically, an estimated 4,000 birds died before they were found.
The surviving birds (including chicks, turkeys, geese, quail, and chukars) were transported to the First State Animal Center and SPCA (FSAC), where they have since been receiving round-the-clock care.
The Delaware Department of Agriculture (DDA) assisted with the transfer after a call from USPS.
Shelter Faces Overwhelming Conditions
The situation has placed tremendous strain on FSAC. Staff members are working around the clock to care for the remaining birds, most of which are Freedom Ranger chicks that require ten weeks to reach maturity.
The shelter lacks a precise count, but estimates over 2,000 birds remain.
As a no-kill shelter, FSAC has turned away individuals who expressed interest in using the birds for meat.
Financial resources remain a primary concern, especially as discussions with DDA about funding continue with no immediate resolution.
Adoption Efforts and Next Steps
FSAC began offering the birds for adoption last week. However, only a few hundred have been rehomed so far.
The organization plans to provide further details soon through its website to encourage more adoptions.
- Birds are currently available for adoption through FSAC
- Freedom Ranger Hatchery is investigating the shipping error
This incident highlights critical concerns around humane agricultural shipping practices and demonstrates the importance of rapid collaboration in animal welfare crises.
Help Support This Rescue
Want to help? Visit the FSAC website for adoption information or consider donating to support their ongoing rescue efforts.
Stay tuned to our blog for updates on this story and other local news impacting Coastal Delaware.
Source: Cape Gazette, WHYY, Delaware Live