NJ Farm Helping More Than 90 Abandoned Ducks Find Homes
COLUMBIA, N.J. (CBS) -- More than 90 ducks have become sitting ducks as they wait to be adopted after being abandoned in Secaucus.
The domestic ducks are currently being cared for at Barnyard Sanctuary, a 15-acre non-profit farm in Columbia. Founding director, Tamala Lester, says more than 100 Khaki Campbells had been dumped near Mill Creek Mall -- including several dead ones. The birds were left there by two unrelated suspects, one of which is facing animal cruelty charges.
The New Jersey Division of Wildlife rounded up 92 of the ducks and brought them to the sanctuary on July 18. They were later placed under a 21-day quarantine by the New Jersey Department Agriculture to make sure they're free of diseases and any other health problems.
"Every one of them is still alive and healthy," said Lester, who is anticipating a visit from the NJDA this Friday.
If they give the "all clear," the ducks will be able to be adopted as early as next week.
Lester says she's received more than 100 adoption applications for them so far and is in the process of vetting applicants.
Because of fees associated with getting birds across state lines, Lester says the ducks can only be adopted by New Jersey residents.
Since they are considered "flock animals" people who do not already own a duck and wish to adopt a Khaki Campbell must adopt two.
Lester says she's also received phone calls from Secaucus residents who say more ducks, as many as 40, have shown up at the swamp close to the mall, as well as nearby train tracks and condos, which may prompt another round-up by NJDEP.
Those who are interested in adopting one of the ducks can email info@barnyardsanctuary.org. The adoption fee is $20 each.
If ducks aren't your thing, the farm has dozens of other adoptable animals looking for their forever homes.
Anyone interested in making a donation to help take car of the animals at Barnyard Sanctuary can visit barnyardsanctuary.org.
