In 2025, authorities busted the large-scale cockfighting ring, prompting the seizure of 300 birds from the Pennsylvania property, criminal charges for animal fighting and cruelty, and a multi-sanctuary effort to find safety for the survivors.

Identifying suitable homes for roosters can be very challenging, depending on factors like flock size and social needs, but Good Sprout Rescue and Sanctuary—whose team provided the birds with months of care—pulled off the inspiring feat of finding adopters for nearly every chicken.

Launching what would become the longest single drive in our rescue history, Farm Sanctuary transported nine of the birds to their permanent homes on a road trip of over 30 hours in the ice and snow of winter.

But little did we know, the journey wasn’t quite over yet…

Just one bird was still awaiting the right place to call home, and as it turned out, our flock was a perfect fit. It was time to welcome Creamsicle to Farm Sanctuary!

Despite the trauma of his past, Creamsicle has quickly adjusted to life at our New York shelter, likely thanks in no small part to the kindness he first received from the team at Good Sprout.

We’ve introduced Creamsicle to a flock of hens, and as excited as he is to have friends, they may be even more thrilled that he’s arrived. The ladies are all big fans of the charming new rooster, who, to be honest, is a bit of a showoff.

“Creamsicle is spending a lot of time dancing for the hens and making sure they notice how handsome he is,” says Andrea, wellness director.

Home at last, Creamsicle can dance to his heart’s content, and for a bird once surrounded by cruelty, these simple moments of joy and freedom are revolutionary. Everything has changed—and he’ll never need to look back, because sanctuary is a lifelong promise of safety.

Read more about the original rescue, made possible by the hard work and collaboration of Good Sprout Rescue and Sanctuary, Sweet Peace Farm Sanctuary, Rooster Haus Rescue, Haven Hill Animal Sanctuary, Wild Spirit Farm Rescue, Lily’s Safe Haven, and Zen Hen Farm Sanctuary.