As we look back on 2020, without question it has been filled with challenges and hardships for everyone. However, as we reflect on the difficulties of the past year, we should also take stock of the good and remember what celebrating the New Year is all about: Hope.
One of the most poignant representations of 2020 for us here at Barn Sanctuary was our participation in rescuing hens from an egg-laying facility in Iowa. This summer we were alerted that, due to COVID-19, a massive factory farm raising hens for their eggs was “depopulating” over 100,000 hens. Situations like these have been a common occurrence among factory farms this year. Animals, like the hens being raised at this facility, already endure a life of exploitation and commodification. This year they experienced even further suffering, their lives considered even more disposable.
The Rescue
When Barn Sanctuary President Dan and Executive Director Kelly heard the news of the depopulation, they knew that Barn Sanctuary could offer help. Collaborating with Iowa Farm Sanctuary, they drove to Iowa to help save the lives of individuals who did not want to die. The conditions on the farm were dire. Outside, the bodies of birds that had been gassed were being carried away by the tractor load and dumped into piles. Inside, the hens were living in filthy battery cages – multiple birds that had been crammed into tiny cages for their entire lives.
Outside the farm.
It was clear that these hens had never been given the love, affection and care that we believe all living beings deserve. The rescue team worked quickly to save as many hens as possible. Kelly and Dan noticed one hen in particular, who could not even stand on her own. She was listless, with her head caught under the bars of her cage. On the drive home, Kelly held that hen in her lap to help deliver her food and water, and to show her that she was safe. Although the rescue was difficult and heartbreaking, this hen had lived through so much but was still fighting to survive. Her name? Hope.
They brought Hope, along with 22 other hens, to the safety of Barn Sanctuary. All of the rescued hens were weak, dehydrated, and their combs were pale and limp. They had never scratched in grass, or enjoyed a dirt bath in the sun – behaviors that chickens naturally enjoy. They were scared of humans and didn’t make as much noise as our other chicken residents.
Hope on the ride home to Barn Sanctuary.
In total, 61 egg laying hens were rescued by Iowa Farm Sanctuary and Barn Sanctuary – plus more from other sanctuaries and rescue organizations. We found safe, caring homes for all of them and 5 now call Barn Sanctuary home.
Along with Hope, we now have Laura, Cheska, Angie and Dani as resident hens. We named the four other hens after some of our amazing Barn Sanctuary volunteers who have been working on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic as nurses. We are grateful for their dedication – and all front line workers – during this global pandemic.
Today, the Iowa Hens have come a long way. They now feel the sunshine on their beaks, and grass beneath them. Within weeks, their combs were red instead of pale pink, their feather quality improved, and they started to explore and communicate more. Every day they are more social and more trusting. Our team cares for each of them as individuals – something we all deserve.
Kelly showing Hope her new home.
Hope for 2021
Although this year has had one hardship after another we can do more than just hope for better in the New Year – we can create hope by showing gratitude, honoring life, and demonstrating compassion towards all beings.
Visit our End of Year page to learn about all of the good that Barn Sanctuary has accomplished in 2020.
Thank you for all of your support during 2020 – we could not do this without you!
Learn more about this rescue : a video from Dan & Kelly about their experience.