Introduction
In a video exposé dated December 13, 2019, animal rights activists provided a glimpse into the dark underbelly of Hickman’s Egg Ranch, one of the largest egg producers in the Western United States.
The footage, captured by members of Direct Action Everywhere, reveals a disturbing scene of overcrowded cages, dead birds, and unimaginable cruelty within the confines of this industrial-sized farm.
As we delve into the shocking revelations brought to light by this investigation, it becomes painfully clear that there’s a harrowing tale to be told.
Behind Closed Doors
Hickman’s Egg Ranch, a family-owned business with sprawling farms in Arizona, Colorado, and California, boasts an astonishing capacity for approximately 13 million egg-laying hens.
However, what the video exposes is the stark reality of life for these hens.
Driven by a mission for “total animal liberation,” Direct Action Everywhere’s members trespassed onto the farm to capture evidence of what can only be described as inhumane conditions.
A Disturbing Scene
The footage is not for the faint of heart.
Cages crammed with hens, many with open sores and no feathers, tell a grim story of the suffering endured.
The video documents dead birds strewn across the floor, feces-covered living quarters, and overcrowded pens.
Even shelves labeled as “cage-free” reveal the heartbreaking truth of the hens’ plight.
Video: Dead Birds, Overcrowding at Hickman's Egg Ranch
Expert Voices
To lend credence to their findings, Direct Action Everywhere sought expert opinions. Dr. Sherstin Rosenberg, a California veterinarian and animal rights activist, expressed grave concern over the “extreme confinement” the hens endured.
She emphasized that these animals were denied the most basic abilities to exhibit natural behaviors crucial to their well-being.
A Fight for Justice
Direct Action Everywhere didn’t stop at just exposing these horrors.
They filed animal welfare complaints and engaged legal counsel to address these issues.
Despite their efforts, Glenn Hickman, CEO of the company, chose not to comment on the video but instead focused on the trespassing aspect.
Beyond the Farm
The controversy surrounding Hickman’s operations extends far beyond its property lines.
Clint Hickman, one of its executives, holds a significant public office as a Maricopa County supervisor.
Employees, many of whom are inmates under a Department of Corrections contract, have raised concerns about workplace safety.
A Long-standing Battle
The ripple effect of Hickman’s operations has reached neighboring communities, where residents and business owners have long complained about noxious odors and toxic air emissions.
These grievances have culminated in a legal battle, with Hickman’s facing allegations of being a public nuisance.
As this disturbing video shakes the foundations of Hickman’s Egg Ranch, it raises questions not only about the treatment of animals but also about the responsibility of large-scale agricultural operations in our society.
The fight for justice and humane practices in animal farming continues, fueled by those who refuse to turn a blind eye to the suffering that often takes place behind closed doors.
