Full Breakdown
Mass Adoption Effort for 480 Ducks Surrendered from Riverside County Sanctuary
4/16/2026, 1:08:37 PM
Overview of the Situation
In Riverside County, California, 480 ducks have been surrendered from an illegal animal sanctuary operated by Howard Berkowitz, founder of The Duck Sanctuary in Anza. The Riverside County Department of Animal Services (RCDAS) initiated the surrender due to overcrowding and concerns regarding the welfare of the animals. Investigators found that the sanctuary was not maintaining proper husbandry, leading to significant overcrowding issues.
Key Details of the Surrender
The RCDAS received reports of overcrowding at Berkowitz's property, prompting an investigation. Berkowitz had initially intended to create an animal sanctuary but ultimately faced challenges that led to the surrender of the ducks. Following the investigation, the RCDAS confirmed that the ducks had not received adequate care, although tests conducted by the California Department of Food and Agriculture showed no signs of infectious diseases among the birds.
Berkowitz stated that he had been overwhelmed by the situation, particularly after receiving a call in 2024 about duck eggs that were about to hatch. He expressed that the mental health strain from accusations of mistreatment contributed to his decision to close the sanctuary and relocate to Northern California, where he plans to buy a larger property.
Adoption Process
The RCDAS has organized a mass adoption effort for the 480 ducks, which began on Wednesday at the San Jacinto Valley Animal Campus, located at 581 S. Grand Avenue in San Jacinto. To facilitate the adoption process, the agency is waiving all adoption fees. Interested individuals and nonprofit rescue groups are encouraged to visit the campus to adopt the ducks. However, potential adopters are advised to check local regulations regarding the keeping of waterfowl before proceeding.
Official Statements
RCDAS Assistant Director Dr. Kimberly Youngberg emphasized the urgency of finding suitable homes for the ducks, stating, "We cannot provide long-term shelter care for this number of animals, so it's important we work quickly to find placement with rescues, adopters, and organizations willing to assist this week." Chief Veterinarian Dr. Itzel Vizcarra highlighted the health risks associated with overcrowding, noting that it can lead to stress and decreased immune function among the birds.
Criticism & Opposition
While the RCDAS has taken steps to address the situation, Berkowitz has faced criticism regarding the management of his sanctuary. Accusations of mistreatment and mismanagement of donations have surfaced, contributing to the challenges he faced in maintaining the sanctuary. Berkowitz has expressed that these accusations have had a significant impact on his mental health and decision to surrender the ducks.
What's Next
The RCDAS is actively working to place the ducks in new homes and has called for immediate action from the community to adopt the animals. The agency is coordinating with various organizations to ensure the ducks are safely transported and placed in suitable environments.
