SPCA Nelspruit found close to 2 000 battery hens abandoned at a newly established layer hen facility along the N4 outside Mbombela.

“We were notified by the Department of Agriculture of serious welfare concerns at the facility, and what we found broke our hearts,” SPCA Nelspruit shared on its Facebook page.

The animals had been left without food or water and were in a state of extreme hunger and distress.

The birds had started cannibalising one another in a desperate attempt to survive. Several chickens sustained severe injuries, and the organisation had no choice but to humanely end their suffering.

“We removed every bird from the cages, placed water in containers, provided food, rolled up the canvas sides to allow for proper ventilation, and added bedding and nesting boxes so they could finally rest in some comfort,” explained inspector Lize Pienaar.

Faulty water infrastructure at the facility further complicated the situation.

ALSO READ: Wildlife Rescue: Drought-hit Marloth Park executes mass game relocation

A total of 46 severely compromised birds were seized in terms of the Animals Protection Act 71 of 1962.

They were either injured, emaciated, or both.

There is currently no caretaker at the facility.

The organisation said it had reached out to the owner numerous times and managed to secure a meeting next week to discuss improved living conditions for the animals.

ALSO READ: Robber attacks SPCA employee on duty

SPCA Nelspruit has appealed to the public to assist with food donations for the chickens currently being treated at its facility.

“Your support means full bellies, less suffering and a chance at survival for animals who have already endured far too much,” the organisation said.