‘We’re at capacity’: Sonoma bird rescues still overwhelmed with rooster crisis

Sonoma Bird Rescues Overwhelmed with Rooster Crisis

Local bird rescues in Sonoma are still struggling to cope with the influx of unwanted roosters and birds, with the problem worsening despite warnings several weeks ago.

According to Tania Soderman, founder of Sonoma Chicks Rescue and Sanctuary, her phone rings daily with requests to take in unwanted birds.

“After that last story ran, people just read the headline and saw our name,”

Soderman said.

The phone started ringing off the hook. I can’t even pick it up anymore, we’re completely at capacity.

Sonoma Chicks Rescue and Sanctuary, a nonprofit operated by Soderman since 2015, is currently housing over 100 birds, including chickens, ducks, injured pigeons, and turkeys, cared for by Soderman and one intern.

The crisis has not slowed, and funding has not kept pace with the growing number of birds in need of care.

Author's summary: Sonoma bird rescues are at capacity due to the rooster crisis.

Sonoma Chicks Rescue and Sanctuary has over 100 birds in care.
The nonprofit is operated by Tania Soderman and one intern.
Funding has not kept pace with the growing number of birds in need.

Sonoma Index-Tribune — 2025-10-17

Sonoma Bird Rescues Overwhelmed with Rooster Crisis

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