In October 2022, we welcomed 10 hens to the sanctuary after they were rescued from a nearby intensive egg-laying facility with the help of the organisation Red Hen Rehoming.
Like millions of hens in the commercial egg industry, they had spent their lives in a dark, crowded barn with metal floors, no fresh air, and no opportunity to do the things hens naturally love – dust bathing, nest building, exploring, and stretching their wings. By the time they arrived at Goodheart, they were underweight, stressed, and missing many of their feathers.
One of those hens was Flora. With care, patience, and kindness, Flora life completely transformed.
At our sanctuary, she now spends her days scratching in the grass, dust bathing in the sunshine, and relaxing with her friends. She has regained her health, grown back her feathers, and finally has the freedom to simply be a hen – safe, happy, and loved.
Flora can now spend the rest of her life safe and loved at our sanctuary, surrounded by fresh air, green grass, and the companionship of her flock. After such a difficult beginning, she finally has the freedom to explore, dust bathe, rest peacefully, and simply enjoy life as every hen should. We’re so grateful to everyone whose support helps animals like Flora get the happy future they deserve.
Sadly, most hens used for commercial egg production are considered “spent” at just over a year old, when their egg laying naturally begins to slow. Many are slaughtered before they ever get the chance to experience a life beyond the barn.
Flora’s story is a reminder of both the cruelty of commercial egg production and the incredible difference compassion can make.
You can also symbolically adopt Flora and help support her lifelong care at the sanctuary. As a thank you, we’ll send you a beautiful adoption pack – a meaningful way to support rescued hens like Flora, and a thoughtful gift for any animal lover.
