Rescue Chickens
Are Extraordinary
Backyard chickens are surrendered by the thousands when owners realize they weren't prepared. These intelligent, personable birds deserve a second chance — and they'll reward you with fresh eggs and endless entertainment.
Popular Rescue Chicken Breeds
These breeds are commonly found in rescues and are well-suited for urban and suburban backyard flocks.
THIS Chicken Care Essentials
Coop & Run Space
Minimum 4 sq ft per bird inside the coop, 10 sq ft in the run. Predator-proof with hardware cloth — not chicken wire.
Flock Minimum
Chickens are social animals. Never keep fewer than 3. Lone chickens suffer from stress and loneliness.
Light & Laying
Hens need 14–16 hours of light to lay consistently. In winter, a coop light on a timer maintains production.
Veterinary Care
Find a poultry vet before you need one. Annual wellness checks and prompt treatment of respiratory illness are essential.
Check if chickens are allowed in your city
Many cities allow backyard hens with permit. Use the THIS Zoning Law Checker to verify before you adopt.
Find Your Rescue Flock
Chickens, goats, babydoll sheep, pigs
RescueGroups.org
🐓 Farm AnimalsLargest database of rescue animals — all species including reptiles, farm animals, and birds from thousands of rescues nationwide.
Petfinder
🐓 Farm AnimalsAmerica's most popular pet adoption platform with 400,000+ animals available from 11,000+ shelters and rescues.
Adopt-a-Pet
🐓 Farm AnimalsNorth America's largest non-profit pet adoption website, helping over 21,000 shelters and rescues find homes.
Humane Society
🐓 Farm AnimalsFind your local Humane Society shelter and browse adoptable animals in your community.