Thousands of chicks abandoned in USPS truck overwhelm Delaware shelter

In Delaware, a significant animal welfare crisis unfolded as over 12,000 chicks were found abandoned in a USPS truck for more than three days. Left trapped in a warm enclosure without food and water, many of the chicks perished before they were discovered, leading to an urgent situation requiring immediate intervention. The surviving chicks were taken to the First State Animal Center and SPCA, where dedicated staff began the challenging task of nursing and caring for them. The situation highlighted major concerns regarding logistics and animal welfare practices as involved parties await answers regarding how this incident occurred. The chicks, raised by Pennsylvania-based Freedom Ranger Hatchery for distribution to clients, were unable to be retrieved by the hatchery due to biosecurity restrictions. A spokesperson from the hatchery noted that had USPS completed the delivery upon discovery, the recipients could have adequately managed the needs of the malnourished birds. The lack of communication and operational failures in USPS's handling of the shipment led to significant consequences for both the chicks and the shelter, which has transformed into a 24/7 operation. As the First State Animal Center and SPCA began to offer the surviving chicks for adoption, they faced obstacles in rehoming due to the sheer volume of birds needing care. An estimated two thousand chicks remain housed at the shelter, yet only a few hundred have found homes. The shelter's director, John Parana, emphasized that financial strain remains a pressing concern as the donation-reliant organization struggles to meet the needs of the birds while continuing its standard operations. Communications with the Delaware Department of Agriculture revealed that while the department is expected to assist with funding for the shelter, there were currently no available funds. This incident has raised questions regarding the responsibilities of the USPS and the processes in place for handling live animals during transport. As investigations continue into the circumstances that led to such a large shipment being left unattended, both the postal service and state officials recognize the need for improved safeguards for the welfare of animals. The shelter remains focused on providing care and seeking solutions that will ensure the remaining chicks can be adopted or placed in suitable environments, amid concerns about their well-being and the execution of animal care under challenging circumstances.