by New York City, NY – A disturbing discovery has caught the attention of residents and animal rights experts on the Upper West Side as a pair of dead chickens were found for the second time in just four months along the same block. The recurring incident has led experts to believe that these acts may be linked to secret religious rituals in the upscale neighborhood.
The two lifeless golden-feathered chickens were found on Tuesday morning, laid head-to-claw along the median on Broadway and West 91st Street. This marks the third such occurrence within just over a year, with pairs of nearly identical chickens unearthed within a three-block radius, raising concerns about the nature and purpose of these acts.
A Pattern of Mysterious Poultry Discoveries on Upper West Side
Similar pairs of chickens have repeatedly been found in nearby locations, including an incident on May 24 at the median on Broadway and West 89th Street, just in front of Broadway Malls. The birds are believed to have been purposefully placed, especially noticeable on a curved part of the median facing into the intersection, indicating deliberate intent rather than random disposal.
- First pair found on June 25, 2024, at West 92nd Street and Broadway
- Second pair discovered on May 24, 2025, at West 89th Street and Broadway
- Most recent pair found on September 2025, at West 91st Street and Broadway
The repetition of dates and locations strongly suggests a ritualistic pattern, fueling speculation about ongoing secret ceremonies.
Experts Point to Religious Rituals and Animal Rights Concerns
John Di Leonardo, executive director of Humane Long Island, weighs in on the matter, stating:
“The similar dates these animals were found underscores the likelihood that they are connected to a routine sacrifice and unlikely to stop without law enforcement intervention.”
Animal rights activists suspect these chickens are part of dark ritual sacrifices possibly linked to religious practices. While animal sacrifice is often connected to traditions such as Santeria or voodoo, Di Leonardo highlights that other faiths, including Judeo-Christian and Hindu communities, have their own ritual slaughter practices — such as the use of chickens in Kaporos ceremonies or slaughter of pigs and chickens in Shakti rituals.
Health Risks and Illegal Live Slaughter Markets in NYC
These birds are believed to have originated from one of the approximately 80 live slaughter markets operating across New York City. According to Di Leonardo, many of these markets have recently tested positive for avian influenza, posing significant public health risks.
- More than two dozen live slaughter markets tested positive for avian flu in 2025
- It is illegal for these markets to sell live birds to the public, yet violations are common
- Birds are often sold for in-street slaughter, usually related to ritual animal sacrifice
“We know live slaughter markets regularly violate public health codes by selling live birds to those who slaughter them in the streets, often for cruel and inhumane animal sacrifice,” said Di Leonardo.
Read Also: Virginia Man Sparks Outrage After Flag-Waving Rant About Trans Kids Outside Local School
These illegal practices and ritualistic killings not only raise animal welfare concerns but also public safety issues regarding disease transmission.
For more detailed information, see the original report from The New York Post here.
What Can Be Done to Address the Issue?
With this disturbing pattern emerging on the Upper West Side, authorities and community members are urged to take action. Experts emphasize the need for:
- Increased law enforcement intervention to stop illegal slaughter and animal sacrifice
- Stricter regulation and monitoring of live slaughter markets in New York City
- Community awareness campaigns to report suspicious activity
Addressing these concerns could potentially put an end to the repeated incidents and protect both animal welfare and public health.
Have You Witnessed or Heard of These Rituals?
What do you think about these recurring discoveries of dead chickens on the Upper West Side? Do you believe they are part of ritual sacrifices or something else? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
