At Farm Sanctuary, we inspire people to think differently about turkeys. Since 1986, Farm Sanctuary’s Adopt a Turkey Project has encouraged people to symbolically adopt one of our rescued “spokesturkeys” for the holiday season instead of eating one.
Your one-time $35 donation helps Farm Sanctuary care for our rescued turkeys, protect others still in need, and raise awareness about the beautiful lives they lead when they’re allowed to live.
Elsa was one of 24 baby turkeys left in our care. They likely came from a factory farm. The birds were debeaked and had upper respiratory infections; some were too weak to stand.
Most turkeys raised for meat are slaughtered by the time they’re five months old; Elsa is eight years old today. Despite her previous mistreatment, Elsa enjoys our attention. As “The Best Friend” of her flock, she also brings the party wherever she goes. Everyone loves Elsa and wants to be a part of her world!
Sandy’s former guardian saved her from slaughter but failed to give her proper care — housing her with several males, causing severe bruising and feather loss. Sandy also had a painful, untreated foot infection.
In 2016, Farm Sanctuary evacuated our Acton, California shelter during a wildfire. We met Sandy at an evacuation site and, noticing her poor health, offered to take on her care.
Despite her previous mistreatment, Sandy, “The Sweetheart” of the flock, loves attention from humans. She enjoys cuddling, often climbing into her caregivers’ laps, and chirping along to music when they listen together.
Galadriel is a majestic bird who values the finer things in life, from dust bathing to relaxing with friends and awaiting service from her caregivers. While shy around people, she accepts treats and attention – on her terms.
Unfortunately, her former guardians failed to give the Royal Palm turkey the royal treatment she deserved – or proper care in general. A rescuer alerted us to her situation, and we brought Galadriel home to Farm Sanctuary.
Here, Galadriel “The Graceful” rules her own life — and our hearts.
Roberto came to Farm Sanctuary after his guardian passed away. The guardian kept the animals as companions, and to honor their relative’s wishes, the family wanted to avoid sending anyone to slaughter.
Like the turkeys raised on factory farms, heritage breeds like Roberto are slaughtered for meat at a fraction of their lifespan.
At Farm Sanctuary, Roberto, “The Adventurer,” is a curious and talkative turkey who loves exploring with his friends.
Before coming to Farm Sanctuary, George shared a small enclosure with two other turkeys and a group of chickens. As the animals grew, they began outgrowing their space.
George is also a Broad Breasted Bronze, a breed raised for rapid and excessive growth in meat production. However, the guardian saw George as a companion and wanted her to find sanctuary. Here, “The Homebody” of her flock can finally live on her terms. Sometimes friendly and cuddly and other times assertive, George now has the space to be herself.
It takes all kinds to make a flock. Sandy is a cuddly sweetheart, while Galadriel prefers her space. Elsa likes to make new friends, and Roberto is always planning his next adventure. Meanwhile, George is happiest when cozying up at home. All are ambassadors for the 68 million turkeys slaughtered during the fall and winter holiday season each year. At Farm Sanctuary, these beloved turkeys are our guests of honor rather than a centerpiece. May their stories inspire a more just and compassionate world for all beings.
Can’t choose which turkey to adopt this year? We can help! As it turns out, turkeys are a lot like us. They have unique personalities, interests, and preferences. Take this quick quiz to meet your match.
