Picture this: you ordered a Thanksgiving turkey from avbirds.com.
Or maybe you hatched one from turkey poults and hatching eggs you picked up in spring.
You raised it through summer, and now you need to find it a new home.
California offers a range of live turkey donation options after Thanksgiving so your bird can strut into a happier life.
In this post let’s cover sanctuaries, wildlife centers, rescue farms, and alternative giving ideas.
You’ll get step-by-step tips to prepare, transport, and donate your mature turkey.
Local Turkey Sanctuaries
Sanctuaries give your turkey a safe, permanent home. These spots specialize in farmed animals, so your bird joins a flock of rescued friends.
Farm Sanctuary Orland, CA
Farm Sanctuary’s Orland chapter is one of the few California sites taking live turkeys year-round. They offer daily care, roomy pens, and veterinary oversight. Visit their Adopt a Turkey page to learn more.
Find Nearby Havens
Search local rescue networks like Sanctuaries Online or contact nearby livestock refuges. Many welcome domestic birds, but confirm space and drop-off rules first.
Wildlife Rehabilitation Centers
Wildlife rehab centers usually focus on wild species. Not sure if one will accept your domestic turkey? Some may if health and permit rules align. Always call ahead before planning a drop-off.
Consult Regulations
Domestic turkeys fall under state livestock rules, so review guidelines on permits and disease control. Check our live turkey regulations in california for details.
Potential Facilities
Wildlife Waystation near Sylmar and California Wildlife Center in Calabasas are two places you might try. Describe your bird’s size, age, and health when you reach out.
Rescue Farms And Shelters
Several rescue farms in California welcome farm animal donations. They provide rehab, socialization, and a forever home for grateful turkeys.
Redwood Land Animal Sanctuary
Redwood Land Animal Sanctuary near Oakland often rescues turkeys and chickens alike. Their wide pastures give birds plenty of space to roam.
Contact Humane Societies
Your county Humane Society or local 4-H club may partner with farms. Reach out early since spots can fill quickly after the holidays.
Prepare Your Turkey
You want your turkey in tip-top shape before handing it off. A quick health check and careful packing go a long way.
Schedule A Vet Check
Have a vet confirm your turkey’s health. Ask for parasite control and vaccination records, which many sanctuaries require.
Pack For Transport
Choose a sturdy, ventilated crate sized for your bird. Line it with clean straw, add fresh water, and include some feed. Handle your turkey gently (see our live turkey handling for thanksgiving tips) and follow care advice in live turkey care for thanksgiving.
Submit Your Donation
After prepping, it’s go time. Here’s how to finalize your donation smoothly.
Reach Out In Advance
Email or call your chosen facility at least a week before drop-off. Share details like your turkey’s weight and age.
Arrange Drop-Off
Confirm the date, time, and location. Ask if volunteers can help unload your crate to keep stress low for your bird.
Alternative Giving Options
Not able to donate a live turkey? No worries, there are other ways to spread Thanksgiving cheer.
- Sponsor a turkey through Farm Sanctuary’s Adopt a Turkey Project (Farm Sanctuary), which supports lifelong care for rescued birds
- Volunteer at the SF Turkey Drive, a program that provided over 55,000 meals in 2024 (SF Turkey Drive)
- Donate money or goods to Operation Turkey to help deliver warm meals on Thanksgiving Day (Operation Turkey)
- Support Feeding America’s advice by giving a monetary gift to your local food bank – they can convert dollars into more food at wholesale rates (Feeding America)
Key Takeaways
- Choose a sanctuary or rescue that fits your turkey’s needs
- Schedule a health check and pack your bird safely
- Contact facilities early to secure space
- Explore alternative donations if live rehoming doesn’t work
- Spread kindness beyond live turkey giving with volunteer or monetary gifts
Ready to give your bird a fresh start? Reach out to your favorite sanctuary today and make a big-hearted donation.