Hundreds of Ducks Quickly Rehomed After Riverside County Animal Rescue

Riverside County, California, United States of america — All 480 ducks rescued from overcrowded conditions in Riverside County have been placed in new homes just one week after animal services intervened at a property outside city limits, officials confirmed.

The Riverside County Department of Animal Services discovered the large flock last Tuesday during an inspection prompted by concerns over cramped outdoor cages and questionable care. The birds were transported to the San Jacinto Valley Animal Campus, where an urgent appeal for adopters was launched the following day.

Officials described the operation as one of their largest and most coordinated efforts in years. According to a San Jacinto Valley Animal Campus update, a range of individuals, farms, and rescue organizations stepped forward to adopt the ducks. Among those responding was Daniel Markichevich, who, along with his fiancée, took in 20 ducks for their farm after constructing a backyard pond. The Funky Chicken Rescue in Vacaville also accepted some of the birds, providing sanctuary for a smaller group.

Prior to rehoming, animal services worked with the California Department of Food and Agriculture to screen the ducks for zoonotic diseases, all of which tested negative. However, veterinary assessments revealed inadequate husbandry, with overcrowding and nutritional deficiencies raising concerns for the animals’ health. "Overcrowding can contribute to stress and decreased immune function," said Dr. Itzel Vizcarra, the agency’s chief veterinarian, who also noted the risk of digestive illnesses stemming from poor nutrition.

The rapid rescue and placement drive was bolstered by over 70 bags of donated waterfowl feed from a local business, highlighting the role of community support in the operation.

Although the ducks have now been successfully relocated, Riverside County officials say the investigation into the original property’s living conditions remains active.