Adopt a Turkey 2025: Meet the Flock!

Rescued turkey Thelma eats lettuce from a hanging enrichment ball at Farm Sanctuary Adopt Now

Adopt a Turkey 2025: Meet the Flock!

Embrace a compassionate holiday this Thanksgiving! Since 1986, Farm Sanctuary’s Adopt a Turkey Project has encouraged people to support a turkey instead of eating one.

The heartbreaking reality is that 46 million turkeys are slaughtered each Thanksgiving in the United States. You can choose a kinder tradition by symbolically adopting one of the rescued turkeys who call Farm Sanctuary home.

Your gift will help us provide daily, individualized care to your newly adopted feathered friend and the hundreds of other rescued farm animals at Farm Sanctuary—while supporting our efforts to rescue more animals in need and fight the abuses of factory farming. 

In thanks, we’ll send you or your chosen recipient a print or digital certificate featuring a photo of your adopted turkey and their inspiring story of rescue and resilience. Elevate their stories and inspire others to choose compassion this Thanksgiving when you display your printed certificate on your holiday table!

We’re kicking off the season with something new! Adopt by October 31 and receive our Early Bird gift: a special discount* for the Farm Sanctuary e-store, delivered to you by email after your turkey adoption to help you spread compassion all holiday season long.

Meet this year’s adoptable turkeys below, then fly right over to AdoptaTurkey.org to celebrate compassion!

Thelma: The Tender Heart

Profile of rescued turkey Thelma in front of barn at Farm Sanctuary

Thelma may look like a turkey, but she’s a phoenix who’s risen from the ashes to start a new life—twice. Shortly after a rescuer saved Thelma from slaughter, wildfires threatened her new home, but we welcomed this sweet bird with open arms and open hearts. Thelma plops down immediately to get pets and even follows caregivers around the yard until they give her attention! She spends her days exploring her yard but nestles up to the snuggly Serena at night. This mellow gal enjoys music activities, treats, and chatting with her Cornish hen neighbors across the fence.

Julie: The Introvert

Rescued turkey Julie in pasture at Farm Sanctuary

Julie was going to be killed for Thanksgiving at four months old, but after her flockmates died from predators and car accidents, the lonely bird followed her guardian around for companionship. Julie’s grief and search for a friend inspired a change of heart that saved her life and led her to sanctuary. Julie is finding her place in the flock. She’s shy but lights up during her time with caregivers, who gently help ease her anxiety. Julie’s safe place is a friendship that feels like home, and her companions, Freyja and Brunnhilde turkeys, join her to forage in the pasture.

Tutu: The Extrovert

Rescued turkey Tutu in barn at Farm Sanctuary

Tutu was born on a factory farm, and she would’ve been one of 46 million turkeys slaughtered for Thanksgiving. But a New York City student rescued Tutu, planning to share the lovable bird’s story through art. The project never took flight because the artist’s school wouldn’t let her keep a bird, but instead, Tutu found her forever sanctuary. Today, Tutu has not only put her past behind her, but she’s blossomed into one of the friendliest members of our lively New York aviary. She knows all the latest gossip in the flock and loves to chat with friends.

Serena: The Snuggler

Rescued turkey Serena near trees at Farm Sanctuary

Serena was born on a small farm but endured the same cruel practices faced by factory-farmed turkeys, like having her beak and toes cut without anesthesia. She would’ve been killed for Thanksgiving if a local rescuer hadn’t saved Serena and her “sister,” Venus. When Venus passed away in 2021, Serena found comfort alongside the tender-hearted Thelma turkey. With time and healing, Serena has become a sweet and trusting soul who loves snuggling with her caregivers, playing with treat toys, and listening to her favorite tunes. A gentle gal, she brings laidback vibes to our Los Angeles aviary.

Zuzu: The Wild Child

Rescued turkey Zuzu in pasture at Farm Sanctuary

Zuzu didn’t always have the care she needed and deserved. She was rescued from a heartbreaking hoarding case and taken in by a sanctuary. But this social bird, who thrives with friendship and fun, needed a new family when a predator attack killed her friend. So, we welcomed her to our New York flock, where this spicy gal fit right in. Zuzu is always on an adventure, reveling in the freedom of sanctuary as she runs zoomies around her friends. In the winter, she becomes a snow angel, overjoyed to dash and play through her own winter wonderland.

Maximize Your Impact: Adopt the Flock

Each of the rescued turkeys at Farm Sanctuary has a unique personality. Serena is laidback and snuggly. Zuzu is adventurous and wild at heart. Thelma is always the thoughtful friend. Julie is shy and finding her place in the flock, while Tutu is the charismatic life of the party. Despite their differences, they are each a cherished member of our Farm Sanctuary family—and ambassadors for the 46 million turkeys lost to Thanksgiving each year.

Sponsor the flock of five to make a big difference in the lives of our rescued residents and turkeys everywhere!

Thank you in advance for choosing a compassionate Thanksgiving tradition!