Card - Happy Clucking Birthday

Oscar strutted into the world with his five fluffy brothers after a well-meaning hatching project for the grandkids produced lots of boys!

Hatching projects might seem like a cute, fun activity, but they can actually be pretty tough on the chicks. In the wild, a mother hen carefully turns her eggs several times a day to help them grow properly. That’s a lot harder for humans to mimic, which means baby chicks often end up with leg issues and other health problems, not exactly the warm welcome into the world they deserve. Without a mother hen around, these little ones miss out on the comforting bond and guidance they should have.

Once the excitement wears off, many of these chicks sadly end up in places where their lives are short and far from happy. Most kids would be heartbroken to know what really happens to their feathery friends after the project ends. It also sends the wrong message, that animals are just props rather than living, feeling creatures.

The good news? There are kinder, cooler ways to learn about birds! You can install nest boxes with cameras and let kids witness the real magic of parent birds raising their young. Sites like www.wildlifekate.co.uk/livecameras4 stream live nesting footage from around the world. Plus, there are awesome 3D models and augmented reality apps that let you peek inside a developing egg, no incubator required! 

Let’s give curious kids a truly inspiring window into nature, one that’s educational and compassionate. To learn more and discover how you can help create positive change visit: www.animalaid.org.uk/the-issues/our-campaigns/hatching-projects

Oscar is one of the lucky ones being cared for and pampered at Footprints Animal Sanctuary.

To find out more about Oscar and his friends, volunteer, visit on an open day, or hear about the amazing work the team do at Footprints, please visit: