A blog by Spring Farm Sanctuary
March 3, 2024
Since her arrival in 2019, Matilda has become one of the most vibrant and beloved souls in our sanctuary. This beautiful Orpington hen, around 6-7 years old, is not only curious and brave but has a bubbly personality that makes her irresistible to everyone who meets her. Matilda loves making new friends regardless of species and has proven to be incredibly intelligent, always finding ways to communicate when she needs water, food, or her favorite treats.
Despite her adventurous spirit, Matilda faces a unique challenge: she is partially blind. Veterinarians are unsure of the extent of her vision loss or what caused it, but Matilda refuses to let it slow her down. She continues to navigate her world with confidence, using her keen senses and intelligence to adapt and thrive. Whether it’s exploring new spaces, interacting with her friends, or seeking out her favorite treats, Matilda’s determination and resilience are truly inspiring.
A Life of Freedom and Companionship
Matilda came to us after escaping from a live animal market in our city. She was found in a parking lot by kind-hearted people who protected her until she reached her forever home at our sanctuary. Unlike many others who were not as lucky, Matilda found a place where she could live with dignity, security, and plenty of love.
Sunny Days and Winter Adventures
One thing that defines Matilda is her love for exploration. In the summer, she enjoys sunbathing and taking sand baths, pecking the soil in search of delicious worms, and discovering new corners of the field. In the winter, she doesn’t let the cold stop her from having fun. She loves wandering around the barn, searching for sprouts in the hay, and following closely behind those who work or visit the sanctuary.
Matilda also has a close-knit circle of friends. She spends her days with Lucy (another hen), Asher (a rescued lamb with mobility issues), Clover and Alfie (our cats), and Olive and Penelope (our beloved goats). Her social nature makes her eager to be part of every conversation, and if a group of people is chatting, she will find a way to sneak between their legs to be at the center of it all. She’s not nosy, she just likes to stay informed – wink, wink.
A Difficult Goodbye, but With Hope
Not everything has been joyful for Matilda in recent months. On a cold December day, her best friend Wilma passed away, leaving a void in the lives of everyone, especially Matilda and Lucy. For weeks, both of them searched for Wilma, lost interest in their favorite salad, and showed clear signs of grief. The entire sanctuary team and volunteers worked tirelessly to support them through their mourning, and finally, a few weeks ago, they regained their appetite and began enjoying their delicious crispy salads again.
Unfortunately, on February 18th, Lucy also passed away from natural causes, as confirmed by the necropsy. The sanctuary team is deeply moved by how Olive, Brandy, and Esther — ducks who shared a coop with Matilda, Lucy, and Wilma for years—have welcomed Matilda into their group, comforting her and keeping her company during these cold days. Their empathy toward Matilda teaches us a beautiful lesson: regardless of species, we must be compassionate toward others.
Matilda’s Legacy
Matilda represents the strength and resilience of all animals who have endured difficult circumstances. Her story is a reminder of the impact a single act of kindness can have and the importance of sanctuaries like ours, where every being has the chance to live with dignity and love.
However, Matilda’s story also highlights a tragic reality. Every day in the United States, millions of chickens are slaughtered for food, despite being intelligent, emotional individuals capable of suffering, feeling sorrow, and grieving the loss of their loved ones. Chickens like Matilda deserve more than to be seen as mere commodities — they deserve lives filled with kindness, safety, and respect.
Today, Matilda continues to roam the sanctuary with her unmistakable energy, proving that no matter the past, there is always room for hope and happiness.
- 🌿 If you want to support Matilda and her friends in living a safe and loving life, consider donating to our sanctuary or becoming a volunteer. Every small gesture makes a difference.
- 📲 Follow us on social media at @SpringFarmSanctuary to stay updated on Matilda and all the other residents of our sanctuary!
Thank you for being part of this incredible animal-loving family!
—Spring Farm staff
The Work of Spring Farm Animal Sanctuary
Spring Farm Sanctuary is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and one of the first farm animal sanctuaries in Minnesota. The sanctuary is dedicated to ending farm animal cruelty and promoting vegan living through rescue, rehabilitation, and education efforts.
At Spring Farm Sanctuary, rescued farm animals find a true home where they are safe and cared for. The sanctuary aims to educate the local community about the harsh conditions animals endure in factory farming and the negative impacts these have on health and the environment. Through various events and visiting days, the sanctuary encourages the community to connect with the animals. Their goal is to help people understand how sensitive, emotional, and caring these creatures are.
The sanctuary also collaborates with local and state governmental organizations and agencies. Together they advocate for laws and policies that prevent animal suffering and promote fair and compassionate treatment of animals.
Founded in 2016 by Robin Johnson, a lifelong vegetarian and now vegan, Spring Farm Sanctuary reflects Robin’s dedication to animal advocacy and care. Her commitment to animal rights drives the sanctuary’s mission and efforts to make a positive impact in the lives of farm animals.
The Mission of Spring Farm: A Caring Farm Animal Rescue Organization
This is how Spring Farm describes their mission: “Spring Farm Sanctuary is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating farm animals. We seek to educate the public about the mistreatment of animals, advocate for their protection and inspire change for compassionate living.”
Other Animals at Spring Farm
Matilda isn’t the only animal whose lives have been rescued by Spring Farm. The sanctuary is home to other animals, each with their own story of rescue and renewal. Some of the sanctuary’s other beloved residents which CAA has featured include:
These animals, like Matilda, have found safety and care at Spring Farm, where they can live free from the fear and suffering of factory farming.
Our partner farm sanctuaries
Spring Farm Sanctuary is just one of several farm sanctuaries in the region doing incredible work to protect farmed animals. Other sanctuaries such as Chicken Run Rescue, Farmaste, Herbivorous Acres, and SoulSpace are also dedicated to providing safe, loving homes for animals in need. Compassionate Action for Animals (CAA) regularly highlights these sanctuaries and their residents, celebrating the lives they’ve saved and the impact they’re making. Every month, CAA features a sanctuary resident in their blog and newsletter, giving readers a glimpse into the lives of these amazing animals.
Check our blog page regularly and sign up for our weekly newsletter so you don’t miss any of the endearing stories of residents of local sanctuaries.
Connect With Compassionate Action for Animals
Compassionate Action for Animals (CAA) hosts many events throughout the year, including Twin Cities Veg Fest, Vegan Recipe Club, cooking classes, potlucks, outreach events, and so much more! CAA’s work includes outreach events, educational initiatives, and activities that help build community around plant-based living and animal advocacy.
To stay informed about upcoming events and new sanctuary residents, follow CAA on social media or online.
Follow Compassionate Action for Animals on TikTok | Instagram | Facebook | Online