Sky News uncovers cruelty on "free range" ducks. A recently released video report in the UK-based satellite TV broadcasting service Sky News revealed workers at a Norfolk farm swinging live ducks by their necks as they herded the birds into crates for slaughter. Supplied as undercover footage by the UK-based organization Hillside Animal Sanctuary, the video as reported by Sky News reveals birds being grabbed by the neck and used to move along the other ducks in the flock, then thrown through the air themselves. Furthermore, sick, injured ducks were also discovered at the site, along with dead birds left to decompose in an open container. Attesting to the cruelty of such treatment, farm animal welfare expert Dr. Marc Cooper said, “...Handling them in this manner is likely to cause injury to their neck, legs and body. Throwing live ducks is incredibly inhumane and would most certainly have caused suffering through pain or injury to the birds.” He went on to cite the disease risk of being exposed to dead birds in a state of decomposition. Ironically, these ducks are killed and sold as high-welfare, free-range products, with a premium price being paid for the assurance that the birds are well cared for.

Despite the deeply distressing nature of such information, we sincerely thank Sky News and Hillside Animal Sanctuary for sharing with the public about such horrific treatment of farmed animals. May more and more people swiftly awaken to the many benefits of the vital and compassionate vegan diet so that no animals need to suffer or die as a result of our food choices.

http://news.sky.com/skynews/Home/UK-News/Sky-News-Investigation-Finds-Evidence-Of-Free-Range-Ducks-Being-Abused-By-Farm-Workers/Article/201102115922412?lpos=UK_News_News_Your_Way_Region_0&lid=NewsYourWay_ARTICLE_15922412_Sky_News_Investigation_Finds_Evidence_Of_Free-Range_Ducks_Being_Abused_By_Farm_Workers