Birds euthanized after being seized from suspected cockfighting operation in Wisconsin

The Clark County Sheriff’s Office seized more than 160 roosters and hens from an alleged cockfighting operation Thursday, according to an animal welfare group.

Humane World for Animals, formerly the Humane Society of the United States, aided law enforcement in the effort. According to the organization, authorities searched a residential property near Dorchester and found roosters in cages and dead chicks. Many of the roosters were missing toes, including one that was missing both feet. Most of the birds had no access to food or water.

Most roosters had also undergone a painful procedure in which their wattles and combs, fleshy growths on the neck and top of the head, had been cut off. According to the organization, that is done to mitigate blood loss during cockfights.

In a news release, Laura Koivula, director of animal crimes and investigations with Humane World for Animals, said cockfighting is a violent enterprise.

“Along with the terrible suffering of the roosters who are forced to fight each other to death, organized crime impacts the entire community – often including children,” Koivula said. “We are deeply grateful to the Clark County Sheriff’s Office for intervening in this situation.”

Workers with the animal welfare group assisted with handling animals and documenting the scene. They also helped identify items consistent with cockfighting. They included a blood-covered transport box, sparring muffs and short knives that are attached to roosters’ legs during fighting to inflict severe injuries. The Humane World for Animals said common injuries for birds include punctured lungs, broken bones and pierced eyes.

Cockfighting is illegal in every state. It encourages two roosters to fight to their death typically for gambling or entertainment. In Wisconsin, cockfighting is a felony offense that could result in a fine of up to $50,000 or up to 15 years in prison or both. Those convicted of cockfighting are barred from owning or training animals for five years.

It’s unclear who and how many individuals were involved in the alleged cockfighting operation. Clark County Sheriff Kerry Kirn did not immediately return requests for additional information and comment Friday afternoon.

Kirn told the Marshfield News-Herald no arrests have been made.

Cockfighting can also pose risks for spreading bird flu as pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 has been found in commercial and backyard flocks nationwide. Veterinarians euthanized roosters and hens that were seized from the property due to risks of spreading disease.