TERRIFIC
TURKEYS
XANDER
10 YEARS OLD
Xander’s story could have ended very differently. He was living with a family who intended to eat him—just like the more than 650 million turkeys raised globally each year for human consumption. But one family member saw him not as food, but as someone. They spoke up, advocated for his life, and changed his future forever.
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Since then, Xander has become a beloved long-time resident and a guest favorite. He’s friendly, vocal, and always ready to greet visitors with a proud gobble and an even prouder feather display. He doesn’t mind showing off a little—it’s just part of his charm.
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In a country where an estimated 46 million turkeys are killed each year for Thanksgiving alone—most at just 14 to 18 weeks old—Xander’s life is extraordinary. Now in his tenth year, he has lived over 521 weeks… and counting. His longevity is a quiet but powerful act of resistance. He reminds us what’s possible when we choose empathy over tradition.
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Xander lives a rich and meaningful life. He shares a deep bond with his hen companion Amelie, and the two are rarely apart. During molting season, Xander’s signature feathers go through their natural cycle, sometimes thinning, but that never stops him from puffing up with pride. Like all turkeys, his head color changes depending on his mood—a subtle but fascinating form of nonverbal communication.
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He’s more than an ambassador. Xander is a reminder. Of what animals are capable of when we let them live. And of the beautiful, dignified lives we can help create when we choose compassion.
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We hope Xander keeps communicating with us for many years to come.
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If you’d like to take part in a compassionate alternative to traditional holiday celebrations, we invite you to join us for our annual ThanksLiving event. And if you’re looking for meaningful ways to incorporate kindness into your own celebration, we’ve put together resources to help you explore compassionate alternatives.
AMELIE
5 YEARS OLD
Amelie’s journey to sanctuary began in heartbreaking conditions. She and three other hens were rescued from a severe neglect case in Albany, NY—found trapped inside a filthy, zip-tied kennel with no access to food or water. The situation was dire. Some animals on site hadn’t survived. But Amelie and her three friends, Chloe, Margot, and Estelle did. The four hens were about to begin a brand new life.
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Once they arrived at Full Circle Farm Sanctuary, the girls received immediate care, love, and time to rest. After completing their quarantine period, they were introduced to the turkey pasture—a space divided into two living areas, perfect for forming new friendships (or keeping some space when needed).
Amelie quickly made her preferences clear. She gravitated toward Xander, a gentle and easygoing turkey who welcomed her companionship. On the flip side, she and fellow rescue hen Estelle didn’t quite hit it off—and the feeling was mutual. They’ve each claimed their own space, and we fully respect their choice to live peacefully… apart.
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Amelie’s personality shines bright. She’s fast, confident, and playful. She’ll race the Care Manager Emma across the pasture (and sometimes win!), and she loves sneaking into Xander’s sleeping spot before he arrives—leaving him adorably confused about where he’s supposed to sleep. After a good sprint or mischief session, she settles into her favorite cozy corner, especially when the heater hums during the colder months.
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Bold and charismatic, Amelie brings joy to everyone she meets.
Bradley
5 YEARS OLD
When Bradley was found, he was alone, abandoned on a property that had recently changed ownership. The new family had no idea he was there until they stumbled upon him. They tried their best, but weren’t fully equipped to meet the needs of a solitary turkey. Isolated and without companionship, Bradley began showing signs of fear-based aggression—a response not uncommon in animals who feel unsafe and misunderstood.
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Everything changed when Bradley arrived at Full Circle.
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Here, he was finally met with patience, respect, and the freedom to be himself. From day one, he showed a quiet curiosity. Though shy at first, he quickly took interest in the other turkeys, and was slowly introduced to his new roommate, Estelle, a gentle and confident turkey hen.
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Bradley’s story is a powerful reminder that behavior can be shaped by environment. He wasn’t “aggressive”—he was scared and alone. Once given safety, space, and the chance to connect with others like him, he began to blossom.
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Every resident who comes through the gates of FCFS is treated as a unique individual. Bradley is no exception. With his own distinct personality and gentle spirit, he reminds us that rescue is about more than saving lives—it’s about restoring dignity.
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When a new animal arrives at FCFS, one of our first acts of love is giving them a name—unless they already have one. A name marks the beginning of their new life as a respected individual. It’s a small but profound way of saying: You matter. You are seen. You belong.
Bradley now has the safety, support, and companionship he always deserved—and a future filled with promise, not fear.