The RSPCA has rescued two young chicks who were found running around on Hampstead Heath amid fears they were abandoned.
A member of the public spotted the chicks loose on the heath just off St Gabriels Road and managed to take them home before contacting the RSPCA for help.
With Easter approaching, and amid ongoing bird flu concerns and the cost of living crisis, the RSPCA fears it could see more chicks abandoned in the near future.
Inspector Philip Norman attended on Saturday, 23 March, and took the white chicks to RSPCA Finsbury Park Animal Hospital in London where a vet could check them over and found that they were a little thin but otherwise bright and lively.
Philip said: “These poor young chicks, estimated to be about a month or two old, were very likely abandoned on Hampstead Heath. Sadly, we do see a trend in people abandoning young chicks, whether it’s through fear of avian influenza or if they are male chicks due to a reluctance to care for cockerels as some think they’re noisy.
“If anyone has any information about how these chickens came to be abandoned, please contact our inspectorate appeal line on 0300 123 8018.”
The charity has seen many incidents of chickens and cockerels being abandoned in recent years as the birds have become more popular as pets. Since 2021, there have been over 6,000 reports of abandoned chickens made to the RSPCA (6,610) with 4.5% of those taking place in London.
Chloe Pate, poultry expert at the charity, said: “Keeping hens has become increasingly popular in recent years but it’s incredibly sad to see so many of them being abandoned and neglected. As Easter approaches, we are concerned that we could see more chicks being bought on a whim which sadly can lead to owners who haven’t done their research and end up struggling to cope with their complex needs.
“We are also concerned that we could see an increase in the number of dumped chickens due to the cost of living crisis and concerns over bird flu.
“We are now sadly once again in the midst of a bird flu outbreak which has seen the UK Government take the necessary steps to issue a housing order for some areas of England. Not only is this stressful for the hens as birds that have previously roamed around a garden or smallholding are now being kept inside, but it’s also understandably stressful for owners.
“We would urge anyone who is struggling to care for their pets to please reach out for help from friends or family, or charities. Never abandon any animal.”
Pet owners are also advised to follow government biosecurity advice to help protect the health of their birds as well as to try and limit the spread of the virus. All pet poultry owners need to stay vigilant for signs of disease and ill health in their flocks and it’s vital they seek veterinary advice if they have any concerns and report suspected outbreaks to APHA.
The chicks were taken from the animal hospital to a specialist animal care establishment which will care for them until they’re ready to be rehomed.
To help support the work of the RSPCA, visit: www.rspca.org.uk/give
