Some idiots stole our Broiler Chicks

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Richard Perkins is a globally recognised leader in the field of Regenerative Agriculture and is the owner of Europe’s foremost example, Ridgedale Farm, Sweden. He is the author of the widely acclaimed manual Regenerative Agriculture, regarded as one of the most comprehensive books in the literature, as well as Ridgedale Farm Builds.
His approach to no-dig market gardening and pastured poultry, as well as his integration of Holistic Management, Keyline Design and Farm-Scale Permaculture in profitable small-scale farming has influenced a whole new generation of farmers across the globe. Garnering more than 15 million views on his blog, and teaching thousands globally through his live training at the farm and online, Richard continues to inspire farmers all over the globe with his pragmatic no-nonsense approach to profitable system design.

[@44birdie44]

A couple of coincidences I note: 1. The broilers were there for four days (five day old broilers) 2. The cameras were not working 3. Lots of new people on the farm. Whether or not this is an act by animal rights activists or not, this screams of an insider job or someone very close to the farm passing on information. I doubt there are many people chancing their arm and just happened to pick the perfect opportune time to carry out this criminal act. Someone knew about the birds being there and the cameras being out of action.

[@swamp-yankee]

Or some knuckle heads didn’t know he has cameras.

[@HladniSjeverniVjetar]

He lives in the middle of nowhere, so yea...probably planned.

[@stevefromthegarden1135]

I agree that it looks like an inside job. To roll onto the farm at such an opportune time out of sheer luck seems unlikely to me.

[@melissad.6231]

5 day old chicks aren't something you just go and say "hey look , let's grab these on the way out". It would've had to have been planned. And the fact your cameras were all charging sounds like someone knew about it. I would think about who has been on the farm lately. Sorry for your loss.

[@rnupnorthbrrrsm6123]

That’s what I think !

[@John_8-32]

It sounds like you've been infiltrated. It seems like an inside job.

[@brucedownunda7054]

Welcome to South Africa

[@FoodwaysDistribution]

Drive around, I am sure there is a camera from neighbors or along the road that caught a vehicle with a number plate,

[@zombiestyled]

love that last minute. probably why I follow your channel above all else. Positive and strong attitude 👍

[@russellcann364]

Definitely in need of some canine companionship! Larger the better!

[@Sibert_]

Couple Kangals will do the job 🤣

[@markusmairinger1981]

We work with and use cellular trail cameras by the brand icuserver. Their external battery attached, the locked steal case and it works like a charme. This solution runs for almost 5 months through without the need to change batteries and you receive the photo the moment someone walks into the sensor range on 3G/4G cellular connection to your phone. So even if they steal the cam in the end, you got them on photo first. Works also with infrared to prevent foxes, martens,.. to kill all your birds in one night, with this setup you can react earlier and not wake up to a complete mess. I can really recommend it.

[@michaelgilbert1550]

I am proud of the public face you put on when telling us of your findings in your brooder!!!! Also to do such a thing is unbelievable and reckless! Keep us up to date on your situation. You are part of our huge family! And family helps family!

[@odhrancrowe3894]

Unbelievable man. Really don't know what else to say. Shocking. Don't let it bring you down.

[@rnupnorthbrrrsm6123]

I’m really sorry!

[@abigailfraser6788]

Feels strange that this happened when your security cams were off. I’m sorry to hear this!

[@SherryBaby60]

I agree. I'd definitely follow that clue.

[@dwighthires3163]

So, so sorry for your loss. Hopefully you will recover well and that the thieves will not prosper.

[@claudinedecarlisle8647]

I'm so sorry you had this experience.

[@DenSvaraTradgarden]

Sorry you lost your chickens. I lost 50 birds overnight to a fox a few years ago. They were locked in the barn, but the fox found a tiny hole in the wall and that was apparently enough. It had a big family that year, there were pups everywhere all summer, so I’m glad my birds came to some use at least as opposed to being stolen by a human.

[@TdotTwiFic]

You have so much dignity, its overwhelming when one is being slammed down all the time. Thank you for your statements. The security systems you will put in are going to be amazing. And I just have this feeling that a neighbour has a camera that was working and got a good view of the situation. Blessings to all the lives you protect with such care.

[@jeanbonus902]

Love your farm😃

[@tgood9344]

Thank you for the Spring tour. Everything looks so wonderful and green. Such a peaceful and calm environment. As most viewers I too am sadden by the stealing of your boiler birds. Keep up the great work, we all enjoy your content and videos!🌺

[@courtneyheron1561]

Sorry about the theft Richard. Another educational moment. Sorry this happened to you and I’m grateful you are sharing this experience with your community. I think about this issue and wonder about the best ways to protect one’s operation from folks that choose to trespass, steal and/or interfere with farming operations. It’s an important issue to think about and deal with. Thanks again, and all the best to you through out this growing and farm events season. Having all the children on the farm sounds delightful! Sending good vibes your way 🙏❤️😊

[@kangarookristofer]

See if you can get cell tower data from the time of the break-in

[@jlrbhj]

Those poor chicks :/ Whoever did this stressed them terribly. So very sorry your farm was targeted like this.

[@StefanSobkowiak]

Yup it sucks. We’ve had it 9 times over 30 years of equipment, tools and even 50 5 week old birds. Good luck to them next time they try.

[@kcahill2777]

That’s terrible Richard, sorry to hear it

[@billytingen3567]

I love the way you meet Adversity head on and plow right through to keep everything moving toward a positive outcome. That, my friend I am sure is the explanation for your huge Success. Your passion is contagious and the knowledge you share takes us all to the next level. Cheers!!!

[@mr.skipper4544]

I hope the proper authorities will find the criminals and hold them accountable

[@restorationhomestead9203]

Thanks for the update. It's a bit chilling that someone would invite themself to your farm and take anything away. I hope those chicks don't suffer.

[@demacherius1]

Im sorry to hear that. I am 3 days away from hatching of mine and can understand how you feel. Idiots and selfish people all around.

[@HeliIsoAho]

Sorry to hear what happened. Hope they get caught. Just keep your spirits up and head high - you're are doing such a great work with educating and helping people to achieve their goals. All the best!

[@thehazelnutspread]

3. a common thief wanted to make a profit and sell them after processing them or 4. someone who is trying yet one more way to depopulate our food sources which seems to be extremely common lately

[@evabloecher]

All your projects sound so interesting and I learn and get good ideas from you every time I see your videos, thank you and all the best to you, your family and all the others at your farm.

[@ClayborneJames]

Always love late spring videos. Seeing things come into full growth and the busy bustle. Enjoyed the tour. Look forward to more updates on the camp.

[@cambrianviewfarm1689]

Sorry to hear about the chick thefts. Really bad considering all the hard work and effort you've put in to the farm as well as educating so many others. We've been inspired by your endeavours and we trust nothing further occurs. Peace.

[@benelevate]

So sorry Rich you really don’t deserve that to happen to you and all your hard work. I hope you’re finding all the positives outweigh the negative right now. All the best.

[@Anders_pa_landet]

You have all my sympathy. Cowards that target small farms instead of the industrial meat factories they say they object to. I sometimes think that we small producers that take good care of our animals are ther biggest enemies, they need animal cruelty to raise money for their cause..

[@seancassidy4812]

About the Buzzards, they often make several nests before choosing the one they like, so it may be the same pair you are seeing in different parts of the farm.

[@davejones4269]

Hi Richard I’m sorry to hear that I was brought up in East Anglia if you look on the old maps of East Anglia there with literally tens of thousands of old farmsteads and manor houses with moats around them.The mates are a number of purposes. I will list them for you not in any particular order. One) Security if anyone tries to access the farmyard they would have to go via the bridge you could have a secure gate on the bridge with CCTV and this would protect all buildings within the moat area. Anyone attempting to cross the water would create noise. 2) The moat is the perfect place to raise fish for eating3) the fish will defecate in the boat and produce nutrient rich water which is absolutely perfect for irrigating vegetables four) the moat is also a good habitat for ducks geese and also biodiversity.Five) if designed correctly moats can actually increase Winter r solar gain on the south side of your buildings Six) as you’re in Sweden in the months where the temperature is below freezing the moat can provide a wonderful recreational resource for iceskating. It’s important to have fun too!

[@3waroyrow2022]

Richard receive my sympathy from 🇰🇪. It's not right for you to be taken through such ideal. I love your work and God who brings increase will keep you successful

[@Annazelfvoorzienendleven]

Such a shame to hear that someone has been so indecent as to come on your property and steal your chickens, well said that they are likely reincarnating as broiler chickens in the industry. You have a beautiful farm and do so much good work, nice for your children that here are other children on the farm. That is the best thing there is growing up on a farm and in nature.

[@ETXChris]

Much love Richard. Always grateful for you insight and good vibes.

[@martinjustice]

Sorry to hear your news Richard. I reckon you can take it to the bank that it was a commercial theft. I think you mentioned a few years ago that your hen shipment was delayed from your supplier because of stock theft. Even an 'activist' couldn't hide 150 chicks and care for them under the radar. Sure you can replace but the intrusion brings up my warrior. Peace, and be well.

[@bradcarby3765]

I go the other way. Why would it be a commercial theft? It would be far easier to just slink onto the farm and take the tractor or a vehicle. Worth more and easier to move. It seems to me that it would be some form of activism. Also seems to me that it was someone with inside information. Strange, on a farm with a whole bunch of new people around. Or not.

[@marlan5470]

Could also be a theft by a band of merry travelers.

[@bradcarby3765]

@@marlan5470 Convenient that it was so soon after Tyson Fury retired. Gypsy King needs his protein.

[@my_permaculture]

Very good and clear words you find there. Hope the situation clears up. How crazy that the cameras where off. All the best for the ongoing season!

[@tomhartley5166]

Sorry to hear about this Richard - I hope justice will be served. Good luck.

[@littlewhitedory1]

Wow! Just wow! Can’t believe someone did such a thing and may have gotten away with it! Good luck!

[@kirstenbang-olsen2105]

In the summer it can be nice to have an open space in the top because the insects always move op.

[@fernando.qguanchelisa6496]

Feel your pain Richard, well said

[@pythonhighadder7982]

Wow guys insanity - good luck with current and future projects.

[@Screeech9]

Absolutely terrible. It wouldn’t hurt to go through your neighbourhood and ask if they have any surveillance cameras around, to see even the road activity or such. I also wonder, if the police could wriggle a bit on their sweaty chairs and find out, through celltowers, if there was any activity on your property at that time.

[@WargamingLobby]

Worst thing is that whoever did this is very probably here in the comments saying things like "so sorry for your loss" or something along those lines. Exposure on social media probably leads to this kind of stuff happening but I'm still very happy that you expose yourself so that we can all improve 👍🏻 thank you!

[@Peterharte73]

When we see that ewe walking out to you trust is massive it show's how much you care for your animals I hope you catch those thieves 👍😠

[@tahliel]

Totally horrifying to think there were people uninvited lurking around your home in the night. Positive change can't come from acts of vandalism and theft, especially on people who ARE actively making a difference.

[@chainsawtony6857]

Well said Richard..Jesus it's hard enough as it is! Stay strong you legend.

[@gcb6185]

SAD , Sorry Richard they must be someone well informed about the farm and Inactive CCTV too

[@andreasschmilatus6473]

What the chicken?! Sorry to hear such bad news about intrusion and theft. Their Karma will come back at them, despicable livestock thieves.

[@latvian_homestead]

Living in sea neighbourhood Latvia and also have seen activists acting like they own the world. Not about chickens but few larger farms did get targeted.

[@CoryBleichner]

Look at your employees.

[@pizzaguy3645]

Unfortunately, Swedish law will most likely give them and slap on the wrist and send them on their way. If I caught punks stealing my birds we would have to move the outhouse, If you know what I mean.

[@tedmazi]

I love your channel and your videos and I am shocked at what happened to you unbelievable. I wish the best to you, your channel and your family thanks for the videos! Best wishes from Canada!

[@cynthialouw2970]

I've been trying to figure out how to produce pasture raised chickens in my country with the high incidence of theft! And now you report this theft. So sorry for your loss. Even when animals are penned, the thieves find a way!

[@billhobin07]

The problem is there heads have been screwed back on but its been cross threaded and once you try to fit it on right it just falls off.

[@katiez5660]

It is sad and I hope they’re caught.

[@partidaportet27]

Wow. Sorry to hear. Hope you recover sir. Sending positive vibes your way in return for all the quiet(ish) help I have had from your mind and ideas.

[@karltraunmuller7048]

Swimming pond looks great, but I‘m a little worried you’re pushing yourself too hard once again. You look a tad exhausted already, and it’s only the start of the season. Ugly situation with the broilers of course, but don’t ask too much of yourself, that’s all i‘m trying to say. Watching and enjoying every single one of your videos. All the best 🥬🥕🥒

[@canadiangemstones7636]

Anybody who would steal from a guy that works this hard, and is so fundamentally decent, is utter garbage.

[@lyssalud6781]

let each of the kids make their own video about the farm. it'd be fun. I always love how differently kids approach tasks, and whats important to them.

[@sroberts605]

Horrible for you Richard - hopefully an event not to be repeated, and ideally resolved and whoever prosecuted.

[@jamesfargo8574]

Sad state of affairs...so sorry. Admire your work, discipline, and dedication. Don't let this set-back dissuade you from the larger good you are doing!

[@sroberts605]

Absolutely!

[@elizabethblane201]

Let's hope the crowd intelligence will serve up these criminals.

[@Jezza-rb1hi]

Very Sad to have someone's undesirable behaviour. I never thought of these happening in the Swedish countryside. Hope those concerns are caught.

[@chrismeitner4132]

It’s someone that lives near you and they are preparing for hard times

[@singsongbluebird9704]

I'm shocked and saddened that some despicable thieves took your baby chicks from their warm and cozy broodery. How sad for these poor baby chicks who knows what hellish nightmare they are going through now at the hands of these chick rustlers.

[@ghostwheelinshadow]

Despicable. Our thoughts with you.

[@j-theorythequantummechanic6025]

Nothing worse than a thief..

[@annburge291]

I'm shocked that this happens in Sweden. Here in Mexico, anything is up for grabs. I've found my neighbours helping themselves to our power lines, water, not to mention vegetables and pecans. I've ended up gardening in a wild foraging manner so it's not obvious that there is something to take. Taking animals, or poisoning them (as it happened to our dogs, cats, voles and squirrels) is particularly heart breaking even if they see the last two as pests. I've learnt that it's not worth risking my life confronting my neighbours. It's a bit gun happy in this area. I have had to learn to let go and not let the situation get me down. Hope it doesn't happen again with your live stock. Perhaps you need geese.

[@sroberts605]

Good heavens! What a world! All the best to you for persevering.

[@metempsychosis696]

really odd that exactly on the night of charging the cctv they so this. How many people knew/know about ypur security's cycle, charging, coverage and so on? I am alluding to a potential „insider", maybe not someone there currently, but someone who was there at some point.

[@suffulufugus]

Sorry to hear about the crappy experience. It looks like things are heating up (in every sense)! With regards to the excess grass, say in a more tropical climate, would leasing the land out (or bringing another's herd in) be an option for maintaining soil building on these pastures? Or is the difference over 1 season negligible compared with slashing etc? Thanks! Loving the book too!

[@chrisgolda]

Thats why we always have 2 Dogs outside in the Farm.

[@matprather5833]

I'm glad to hear you say that they were lucky that you didn't catch them in the act. We need more punishment for thieves and criminals. At least here in the USA, it has gotten out of hand how criminals have more rights and sue if they get hurt.

[@SeeStuDo]

Don't rule out someone meaning you harm with the act (think old grudges) that didn't intend to profit. Sorry this happened, thanks for all you share.

[@dwighthires3163]

I am confused as to how the timbers will stay under water and not float to the surface.

[@DarleneDMD]

Really hope that maybe you can offer a reward to finding who the people were that did this and make sure they pay a hefty price. this person or persons should be ashamed of themselves as I know their parents would be ashamed of them!

[@williamhad]

Looks like Motte and Bailey are back in the design plans boys.

[@kristofp72]

Mobile devices usually send out a probe request to WiFi routers if WiFi is activated on the phone, which usually is how most people have it. Even if they don't connect they automatically probe for it. I'm not sure if routers log these requests but you might want to look into this. If the perpetrator had his/her phone or their phones on them they might have left a trace, I believe a mac address. That's not very useful to you unless you know it but police might be able to track it down.

[@ColRubyDimplesManacha]

Those poor babies probably didn't make it thru the night, thanks to some sorry, know-it-all, emboldened idiots. Sorry that happened to you, and the chicks.

[@ravenhill4331]

Live only 15 km from Ridgedale and we have had machinery stolen some years ago, as have many others I know of in the area. Vehicles, machinery and diesel (petrol) are very sought after by thieving gangs. They then leave the country and sell it abroad. But small chickens? Somehow activists seem unlikely, they normaly target larger facilities and they want attention to get their message through. After all, this is a sparesly populated area with only small farms spread out in a forest landscape. No obvious large agriculture/farming area with fur farms etc. I wouldn't rule out that someone means harm or wants to create problems. Alas. Especially since there is a very low monitary gain in this case. If that were the case, they would of gone for the vehicles or other machinery. A very peculiar theft indeed.

[@uberpea03]

the brioler robbery- could be a childrens book

[@allonesame6467]

Love what you do and how you do it!

[@maryhysong]

this is horrible! I'm sooo sorry! I'm with you, I doubt it was another farmer or homesteader.

[@GardenandGreen]

One other possibility is not a farmer, or vegan, but some local restaurant owner, or someone who just likes chicken for free meals. Here in the UK there has been cases where people have been found with a whole live stolen sheep sitting in the back of their cars.

[@kistuszek]

Some unrequested advice: If you want to bury insulation use extruded styrofoam, XPS which is usually colored pink, sometimes green. It is more expensive but it is more effective in ground because it does not allow water in it. (it consist of closed cells)

[@sevenproxies]

Sorry to hear about thieves skulking about your home and giving you grief. I hope the police catch the thieves before you do, for your own sake!

[@clownworld3913]

Absolutely ridiculous, in the Swedish countryside no less.

[@my_permaculture]

You talk about that you think about mowing. Would that also go like: strong growth lots of mowing, slow growth little mowing? How does moving play a role in managing pasture with too little impact of animals?

[@my_permaculture]

@Telegram app👉@Richard_Perkins I don't seem to understand...

[@merrymeadowshomestead2522]

Sorry to hear of the theft of your birds. I hope you find the culprits. I have people come into my farm at night. They cut the electric fences. I have also had people come in to cull my laying hens, ( not fox kill) presumably to feed fresh kill to their dogs. I'm investing in security cameras. This year has been terrible for this. I hope you manage to recover.

[@FOLLOWJESUSHEISTHEWAY89]

Definitely prosecute that’s horrible. Those poor chickens are now going to be harmed without the proper care.

[@kristofp72]

Another option: someone that worked for you or has been on your farm. This sort of thing usually is someone who is familiar with your operation. Animal rights activists would have to know you recently bought these but I still believe it would be someone you've met before. My thought is it's someone you told about it or knows when those birds are there and where. I'm not sure how willing or able police is to find the thieves but most people these days carry mobile phones and they connect to cellular phone towers. It could be possible to find out which mobile phones connected to the tower closest to you. I'm sure they can do this but it's usually done for serious crimes like murder cases they might not have permission to do so for theft of chickens.

[@dexterking7662]

Sorry about the chickens Richard I have two weeks old chicks 🐥

[@yahushaismyshepherd1179]

That is terrible. I am so sorry to hear about this. Either way they have been stolen. Very sad day indeed. They best hit their knees and pray to God. For THOU SHALT NOT STEAL. What fills their bellies damns their eternal souls. A silver lining is that there is still time to replace. And they didn't wait for you to grow them out first. Sadly I think this will become the norm. God bless you and yours. 🙌🤲🙏💞🇨🇦

[@imrealserious]

They didn't take the lights or waterers, so either they have an environment set up for the chicks in advance and didn't need them, or the chicks are dead.

[@a_spam_email2511]

This is unfortunate, but I seriously doubt that it was "vegans" that did this or some form of activism as you suspect. If it was a political statement or activist group there likely would have been a calling card or graffiti hinting at why you were targeted. This seems more likely that it was another producer (snatching 150 broilers reduces a lot of investment cost if they get away) with inside help (your cameras were charging, it seems more than coincidental). As economic crises worsen more stuff like this will become common, it's the nature of capitalism. I hope you can recover your birds

[@yamfingaz5598]

Who knew your cameras were being charged?

[@k8m883]

It’s sad that a group becomes so militant in their thinking that they become blind to the real issue. Any sort “ism” means you are living in ego-separation no matter what your motivation or justification.