When Carla, one of our volunteers, became aware of two hens living at a waterlogged earth moving construction site, she knew they would be at further risk when the major building development began.
So in the pouring rain this morning, I set out to rescue them…and due to their hunger, soon had them safely enclosed in the car. They were cold, wet, hungry, muddy and shivering. In this cold winter weather, the hens’ legs and underbellies have regularly been fully immersed in muddy water.
When the workmen arrived I learned that they had been feeding these mud-caked girls for almost two months and that one had been extremely thin when they first noticed her. The men named them ‘Chickies’ and developed an affection for the birds. They routinely shared their lunches with them which likely kept them from illnesses and saved their lives. A makeshift shelter was built in the mechanics of a crane where the guys had placed hay for them. These are real men!
Now that they have been treated for worms and body lice, these pretty Brown Shavers are looking for loving caregivers. Meanwhile, thanks to Adie, they are enjoying a cosy life in a wonderful foster home.
It’s possible these hens were cruelly and illegally abandoned because they are older and may not be laying as well as they used to. Please apply for their adoption if you would like to spoil a couple of very friendly, curious girls who may or may not lay eggs. We have named them Carla (after our volunteer) and Eartha (in tribute to the great earthmoving team).
NOTE: If you witness anyone dumping chickens in public places, please note the time & date and write down their car number plate & description. If possible, also take a photograph of the offender(s) and forward all details to the Auckland SPCA so that a prosecution follows. Please inform others that abandoning an animal is cruel and is illegal under the Animal Welfare Act. Offenders can be fined up to $50,000.00, face a 12 month prison term - or both.
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