Rare breed chickens “stolen to order” in Newcastle
10th September 2024
Eight rare breed chickens have been stolen in what farm owners fear is a planned and targeted theft.
Staff at Ouseburn Farm in Newcastle, Tyne and Wear, were horrified to discover that eight rare breed chickens, including Silkies, Bantams and Ayam Cemani, had been snatched.
They believe it was a planned theft, which would have involved bringing a prepared vehicle with cages, vaulting over padlocked gates, and entering the locked chicken house.
‘This hurts more than the monetary value of the chickens.
‘It feels like a real invasion of our space, which is a place for the whole community, and our animals’ home where they should be safe,’ the farm said in Facebook post.
Ouseburn Farm is a charity that supports adults with additional needs.
“Really devastating”
Farm manager Katie Bates said the theft feels “targeted” and believes the birds were stolen to order, according to Wandsworth Times.
“It’s really devastating. All of our animals get so much care – they’re cared for by the staff and beloved by visitors,” Katie is quoted by the news outlet as saying.
“We’ve also got a huge team of volunteers that love them. We support adults with additional needs. […]
“Our farmer Richie hatched our Ayam Cemani from an egg. We’re all just gutted that someone would come in and do that to us.
“We’ve had them for so long from eggs and seen them grow.”
High costs to replace chickens
There is CCTV in the farmyard and the theft has been reported to Northumbria Police.
However, the farm is asking anyone who has any information, or has heard of a new brood of rare chickens locally, to get in touch.
It will cost them £400 to replace some of the chickens, and they will also be upgrading their security systems to prevent future thefts.
If you would like to donate, visit Ouseburn’s website.
Enquiries ongoing
A Northumbria Police spokesperson confirmed it had received a report on 29th August that at some point between 24th and 25th August, eight chickens had been stolen.
“Enquiries are ongoing to identify anyone involved.
“Anyone with information should contact Northumbria Police either by sending a direct message on social media, using the live chat function on the Force website or completing a crime update form.
“Alternatively, if you are unable to use these channels, call 101. Please quote log number NP-20240829-0360.”
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