Riverside County Animal Services recently took in nearly 500 ducks from an animal sanctuary in Anza, marking the largest intake of any species in the department’s past decade. The ducks, along with other animals like geese, roosters, and a pig, were surrendered due to severe overcrowding at the facility. An investigation was launched after a complaint, and tests for infectious diseases on the ducks came back negative. The department worked with the property owner to relocate the animals to better environments.

All the ducks are now available for adoption at the San Jacinto Valley animal shelter, with adoption fees waived countywide to encourage placements amid overcrowding. Prospective adopters are urged to take at least two ducks, as they are social animals that thrive in flocks. Among those adopting are Daniel Markichevich and Savannah Burgardt, who plan to give 20 ducks a spacious home on their 3.5-acre farm, complete with a pond for the birds to enjoy.