Animal rescue workers joined together this weekend to relocate more than 200 birds impacted by a recent cruelty case.
At the time, the Atlantic County Prosecutor's Office said there were more than 100 birds and other animals living in unsanitary conditions who had to be quarantined pending disease testing.
Starting at 9 a.m. Saturday, Atlantic County Prosecutor's Office Detectives Denise Manino and Courtney Milana joined with volunteers to move the ducks, hens, roosters and turkeys to their new homes at local rescues.
"It was the most horrific and overwhelming experience we have ever seen," the Funny Farm Rescue in Mays Landing wrote on its Facebook page. "Animal Control and the State Police were there to help supervise the rescue of as many animals as we could save. Sadly, many perished before we arrived."
South Jersey Wildlife Aid Rehabilitation and Sanctuary Rescue were also on hand until 8 p.m. helping move the birds.
Funny Farm's Laurie Zalewski made three trips between the farm and the Buena residence, totaling more than 150 animals.
Another farm accepted six hens, but it was the Funny Farm that took the remainder, according to the post.
"Immediately, volunteers scrambled and came from all directions to build temporary houses and clean new areas for them to live," the post states. "Many animals had to be rearranged to make room for new animals. New areas were built and are still being built."
They still need to be seen by a veterinarian even though they have been cleared from quarantine by the USDA.
The case was sparked by an anonymous complaint to the state Department of Agriculture, which was forwarded to Manino, the Prosecutor's Office Humane Law Enforcement officer.
The criminal charges are pending a grand jury.
The Funny Farm is now asking for help with the large influx of new animals.
Online at https://funnyfarmrescue.org/general-donate/ or by mail at 6908 Railroad Blvd., Mays Landing, NJ 08330.
The Atlantic County Prosecutor's Office thanked those involved for their assistance. It also reminded the public that every law enforcement agency designates a humane law enforcement officer. Local departments should be contacted for any concerns about possible animal cruelty.
