As part of the festivities, turkeys are dropped from planes or thrown from multiple-story buildings. Some die on impact; the survivors, often wounded, are captured by festival attendees, who make a game out of catching the terrified birds for their Thanksgiving supper.

This year, local animal advocates were able to rescue four turkeys from this cruel event. Through a collaboration between the rescuers, PETA staffers, and Farm Sanctuary’s placement team, these four lucky survivors were able to make their way to our New York Shelter.

Named John, Paul, George, and Ringo, the turkeys were treated to TLC and presented as guests of honor at Farm Sanctuary’s Celebration for the Turkeys before finding permanent homes through our Farm Animal Adoption Network. They have since embarked on happy new lives, and we can’t wait to hear what more is in store for this Fab Four!