meet the wallflower residents
at wallflower we celebrate each resident for being uniquely who they are. get to know our wallflower resident family.
have any questions for the residents? send them a message @wallflowersanctuary on instagram or facebook!
Levi
Turkey
About Levi: An affectionate and gentle-spirited girl, Levi’s awareness and desire to connect with others is striking. If you’re looking for Levi you can usually find her hanging out with her flock of chicken friends, perhaps snuggled asleep feather-to-feather, or more likely somewhere in your trail, wandering around amongst the farm bustle. If you’re lucky she just may find a warm seat on your lap, which could be encouraged if you give her scratches in just the right spot on her chest. Aside from loving cuddles and all her friends at the sanctuary, Levi also feels quite strongly about raspberries, her favourite special snack.
History: Levi was rescued in 2018, days away from Thanksgiving-time slaughter. Like most animals grown for meat, Turkeys have been bred to grow much larger than they would naturally, often growing significantly larger than the weight that their bones are able to support. It is important for us to keep Levi within healthy weight so that her joints are viable long-term.
Favourites: Raspberries, quality time.
Levi’s mantra: “Anywhere the sun shines is a good spot for a nap”
Tofu and Nora
Geese
About Tofu and Nora: Tofu and Nora are an opinionated but happy pair, often audible from a distance, honking their two-cents to passerby’s or in reference to farm ongoings. Regardless of his bad-boy reputation, Nora remains a steadfast companion to Tofu, who has developed himself a “security guard” persona at the sanctuary. Aside from maintaining farm lookout, Tofu and Nora’s interest can also be caught by floating treasures or treats in their water bucket or pool.
History: Tofu arrived with his previous mate Veda after spending a year of their lives at a petting zoo, and subsequently being sold online as Christmas geese (for someone’s Christmas dinner). At this sale they were rescued by a couple who fell in love with them, but did not have appropriate means to house them. Their owners were evicted, which resulted in Tofu and Veda being confined to a car garage and then a dog crate for many weeks. We were then contacted and Tofu and Veda finally landed at their forever home here at Wallflower with plenty of space to enjoy. Tofu remained at Veda’s side while she went through a trying battle and treatment for an arthritic related injury. She was euthanized in June of 2019, which triggered a depressive episode in Tofu, and set us on the lookout for a new mate for Tofu.
Enter Nora, who was rescued in September of 2019 after being posted in a farming facebook group for free. Her family was looking to get rid of her after already disposing of her mate who became aggressive, as geese do sometimes out of endearment for their flock. We wish we could have had the chance to save Nora’s mate, too. The stars aligned to bring Nora to safety though, a widowed goose looking for a partner to go on with, just like Tofu.
The difference Nora made in Tofu has allowed him to recover from his past loss and live every day with honking enthusiasm. We are thrilled by this match for both geese involved!
Favourites: Juicy green grasses, a splash in the pond, the official security guard handbook.
Tofu and Nora’s Mantra: “Not on our watch!”
Johnny Cash
Muscovy Duck
About JC: Now Johnny Cash, formerly Frank and more formerly than Frank, Ross, this man of many names has a large reputation to live up to! While this gentleman can appear quiet and unassuming at times, don’t let his sweet face fool you. Once you’re out of sight, JC will likely attempt a swift navigation to Tofu and Nora’s, to share in some important honks and squabbles. We’ve encouraged a more peaceful approach to their business deliberations, but we’ve been asked to not question their process.
Since Johnny Cash has some trouble at times remaining peaceful with his duck and goose co-residents, we are actually on the lookout for the perfect forever home for this fine man. In the meantime he’s working on his “people skills” safely at Wallflower Sanctuary.
History: Johnny Cash came to us when Cherry Brook Zoo closed. We have tried to adopt mister Cash out to loving homes, but he has a track record of getting himself returned. Thats okay though, his weird-ways fit in well in the meantime at Wallflower.
Would you make a good forever home for Johnny Cash? Contact us!
Favourites: flying, debate
JC’s Mantra: “If you can’t go around it, go over it!”
Bertie
Kingpin Chicken
About Bertie: A palm-sized yellow ball of fluff when he arrived, it was evident from the beginning that his spirit would not be confined to his chicken-shell. A true explorer, Bertie is fearless at Wallflower, no crevice too daunting or overturned food bag too dark. If you're looking for Bertie, follow the little chirps, you'll probably find someone feathered in the breakfast barn.
History: Bertie was rescued from the food industry where he would have eventually become a meal. Due to his breed, he has an insatiable appetite that must be restricted to prevent him from obesity and subsequent joint-issues.
As a person bred for human-consumption, Bertie's genetics encourage him to grow large quickly, past the weight that his bones will be able to support long-term. We are vigilant about keeping him well exercised and clean-eating to ensure this chirping sweetheart a long, comfortable life.
Favourites: Levi (though sometimes unreciprocated), snacks he somehow discovered... again!
Bertie's Mantra: "The path less travelled usually has crumbs"
Potbellies
.a note to prospective owners.
The cutest crew who’s always happy to see you. When visiting the potbellies field (or better titled, “lounge”), its never long before finding yourself surrounded by little overturned bellies ripe for scratching. Spend a minute or spend a day, the potbellies are usually kind enough to free some time from their busy schedules to critique an aspiring masseuse. Sound like all fun and games? We're here to remind you, it's not.
We receive more requests to take in potbelly pigs than any other species of farmed animals. Potbellies are often kept as pets by owners who aren’t educated about how big they’ll become, how much work they’ll be, or otherwise aren’t prepared to give a loving home to a potbelly for their lifespan of ~20 years. Owners will sometimes purchase potbelly pigs under the impression that they will remain “mini”, which is NOT a quality that exists in any pig species today, including potbellies who can grow upwardly of 200 lbs.
While potbellies can offer a lot of love, they also can be moody and bite, especially when not in an environment where they can fully thrive. All of our potbelly residents came from families who couldn’t keep them anymore. They have all progressed to developing loving, understanding relationships at Wallflower.
If you or someone you know is considering purchasing a potbelly, consider if you will realistically be able to provide them with the space, life, and veterinary care (spay/neuter will be necessary) they will need, for their entire ~20 years of life. Always look for potbellies who need adoptive homes, not a breeder, to ensure you do not contribute to this highly reckless and exploitative industry. Be aware that potbellies who have been discarded by families who didn't foresee their needs are commonly posted for free online, resulting in mass slaughter. Yes, this is an industry that is highly prevalent in Canada, including our New Brunswick area.
Maple
Potbelly pig
About Maple: Sweet Maple is the matriarch of the potbellies. Maple develops fat blindness in the winter and spends each summer slimming down. She can't see well so she can be aggressive around food, but she's the first to meet you at the gate in the morning in wait of breakfast. Her weird tradition of pressing her snoot gently on the back of Missa's legs and just... breathing... is one of the cutest things about her.
History: Maple was the very first pig to join the wallflower family. we saw Maple posted on kijiji for free and messaged the seller to warn them of the dangers of posting a pig for free (slaughter, abusive homes). Maple came to sanctuary soon after to assume reign of her kingdom.
When she first arrived, Maple needed lots of reassurance. We shared nighttime storybook readings until she was comfortable. She spent her first two years of sanctuary inside the human house, soaking up cozy cuddles with her brother Charlie (and bossing him around). Maple dislikes Petunia.
Favourites: Treats, Charlie
Maple's Mantra: "A queen should never have to wait for food... or eat broccoli"
Mu
Potbelly
About Mu: Usually in-his-own-world or keeping an eye on the humans, mister Mu is a demanding but sweet prince.
Mu is actually bilingual, as he spent the first four years of his life in Quebec with a french-speaking family. He enjoys furthering his linguistic knowledge using a radio in his barn set to the french station, where he listens intently to keep up on his fluency.
Mu isn't a pig-person (or a sheep or goat person), he much prefers the company of his human caretakers, so he has a barn of his own to sleep at night. At bedtime if you're a little late to tuck him in, he's probably already taken care of the tucking himself, snug as a bug. This grand guy knows just what he likes and how to get it.
History: Mu was originally purchased as a "mini pig" at a farmers market in Quebec. 200lbs on intake, Mu evidently is not "mini" (this is a common misconception about potbellies and leads to a lot of un-homed pigs). Mu's was raised into apartment living, and after going through six evictions over four years, it was official, Mu was not a good fit for apartment life. He eventually ended up at animal control, and after a frightening three day stay, he was able to be released on the condition of him going to sanctuary. Wallflower Sanctuary was contacted along the way by Mu's grandma in New Brunswick, and Mu finally found his forever home at Wallflower with lots of space to be free, suited just for him.
Favourites: His barn, cozy blankets, Missa & Meg
Mu's Mantra: "If you wan't it done right, do it yourself"
Ravioli
Potbelly
About Ravioli: Ravioli is a very cool guy. 214lbs on intake, this fellow has been enjoying all aspects of his life at Wallflower, excluding his new diet regimen enforced by the humans. He loves people and spends all day napping on his bed in front of the food barn, soaking up the sun and watching his caretakers work. If you look closely, you may spy his best friend Clementine the cat tucked in next to him, too. Ravi takes periodic breaks from his lounging post to knock over any garbage cans that may have mistakenly been left upright by Wallflower’s care team. He’s also quite helpful at locating the turkey food, an entree he is continuously denied (but that doesn’t stop him from inquiring). Ravioli’s favourite part of his nighttime routine is watching movies in his stall with his roommate Bertie the kingpin rooster.
History: Ravioli came to us late 2020 when Wallflower heard about his case and knew we had to help. Ravioli’s family was facing eviction due to having a potbelly pig. He was fed a few too many snacks, so his first months at Wallflower will include more exercise and less calories, so we can ensure his health long-term. After Ravioli arrived we noticed many similarities between him and Petunia, and after some research, we have confirmed that the two are half-siblings! They have the same dad and different moms, and were born only one month apart! Ravioli and Petunia are the second set of siblings to be coincidentally reunited at Wallflower.
Favourites: Snacks, Clementine, Bertie, going for walks
Ravioli’s Mantra: “If you can’t reach it, knock it over!”
Charlie
Potbelly Pig
About Charlie: A very tender gentleman. He has a cute stripe on his nose and a dot on his head. Quiet, calm, and always the last one out of bed, this chill guy is everybody's favourite. He'll topple over for a belly rub and stay for a hoof trim, an event only him and Ravioli will tolerate without restraint.
Charlie is Maple's full brother. For their first two years at wallflower, Charlie and Maple lived inside. Charlie dislikes mushrooms and the forceful direction of his bossy sister. Their bond though, is undeniable. If you listen (or even try not to) their noisy conversation can be heard from the pig field, squealing back and fourth amongst each other as they walk.
History: We discovered Charlie was Maples brother when we saw him on kijiji bouncing around from home to home, with the same birthday information as our Maple. After seeing him re-homed three times online, we said enough was enough and went and picked him up to bring him home, finally. When he first arrived, he spent one whole week just sleeping in his cozy blankets and settling into his new home.
Favourites: Jubejubes (he's allowed two jubejubes weekly, since he absolutely loves them. He chews and chews).
Charlie's Mantra: "If you can't be the bossiest, be the cutest"
Begonia
Potbelly x Guinea Hog
About Begonia: Miss Begonia is part Guinea Hog, so she looks a bit darker and furrier than the other potbellies. She is the most active of the group, a very curious girl, running from one place to the next, inquiring. This brave girl is also notably loud, in fact the loudest calling for breakfast or dinner. She can scream and run on-the-go, which sounds like a squeak on-and-off as her body tumbles. She certainly does not like to be asked to wait before a meal.
History: Begonia was in an unstable living situation, as she lived in a small apartment with a family who would be evicted if their landlord knew they had a pig. Begonia was not spayed so made a quite moody entrance, but she soon settled into sanctuary life and has been the most energizing lady since!
Favourites: Putting her snoot on things, adventure.
Begonia's Mantra: "If you're not first, you're last!"
Petunia
Potbelly
About Petunia: Small, rotund, a petite package of punch! Petunia is on the smaller side in comparison to her other potbelly co-residents, and works hard to maintain her respect amongst the others. This sweet little gal will be the first to greet you in the potbelly hangout, and you just might gain a shadow for your upcoming journeys. Currently Petunia is key busy in her heard-hierarchy debacle with her brother, Ravioli.
History: When we met Petunia her name was Peppa Pig. She was from a breeder and given away for free to a home with a family farm to live at. At around 3 months old, she began to go into heat and proved problematic in the home (as potbellies usually do when they begin heat). Three to four months of age is the most common age we hear of issues beginning at, which often leads to pigs being passed around from home to home. The most common time we get pigs is around three months old, for this reason. Petunia arrived shortly after her now best friend, Begonia.
Favourites: Belly rubs, Begonia
Petunia's Mantra: "Brave things come in small packages"
Atticus
Pig
About Atticus: Atti is a gentle giant. Our biggest wallflower, weighing 700lbs, standing handsomely at 4-4.5ft tall. He is assertive, outgoing, and takes the cake at Wallflower for jumping the fence to explore other interests. He loves his people and "checks in" periodically when you're working in his field, by coming over and gently pressing his snoot to your face. Atticus truly has "no mean bones", he'll love you surely, but head scratches could definitely help seal the deal. He loves to be tucked in at night with his brother Calvin, where he enjoys his bedtime belly rubs, sweetly. These brothers have a no-door-policy (self-regulated). Even on the coolest nights, they prefer to be doors-to-the-wind (believe us, we've bargained). The cozy warmth of each other is all they prefer.
History: Atti and his brother Calvin were two of four piglets released into the halls of a bustling high school, spray painted "senior prank". At only four weeks old, the four frightened piglets were rescued by Shavon at Cedar Row Farm Sanctuary in Lakeside, Ontario. Atticus and Calvin spent their first year of life at Cedar Row (learning very good manners). The two other piglets, Atticus and Calvin's sisters, were adopted to safe homes. Atticus and Calvin's bond is undeniable, and these brothers know they are home, safe, and so loved at Wallflower.
Favourites: His brother Calvin, anything or anyone (unless you're a mushroom or a turnip).
Atticus' Mantra: "Family is everything"
Penelope Ann
Pig
About Penelope: Penelope specializes in being a boss. She is the only girl in her field, and also the smallest, weighing 525lbs. This bold girl lives life on her own terms. Also known as Penelope Shark, she's been known to enforce her boundaries with a chomp (pats behind the ears, for example).
Penelope has the most fantastic eyelashes which she loves to bat, like the princess that she is. She also has many dietary restrictions. Her meals consist of mostly fruit, and she eats an extensive supplement cocktail daily to ensure her comfortable longevity.
Penelope was un-paired at Wallflower before her best friend Forrest arrived. Since Forrest has been old enough to live with her, her moods and outlook have improved. We're so happy she opened her heart to Forrest, he is a pretty irresistible guy!
History: Penny was rescued as a four week old piglet from a farm where she was going to be killed because she was the runt of the litter. Penny's mom, Mary Ann, rescued her and raised her in her home, with her mother Chris who also helped to take great care of piglet Penny. They knew though, that they wouldn't be able to keep her when she grew bigger, so Penelope was placed at Cedar Row farm sanctuary in Ontario temporarily while they looked for a home. Penelope, Atticus, and Calvin actually all made the trip from Cedar Row in Ontario to Wallflower Sanctuary together in a large transport truck. They are a huge part of our Wallflower family.
Favourites: Forrest, tearing up blankets, whipping blankets around (it brings her so much joy), her jolly ball on a rope
Penelope's Mantra: "Don't tell me what to do!"
Forrest
Pig
About Forrest: Forrest is a simple man. 600lbs heavy, he has outgrown his BFF Penelope. Forrest is the first to try to play and the last to head out to the field (he usually follows a close 15 minutes behind the others, after every bowl has been checked for remaining morsels). He is very motivated by food and loves his treats, which he characteristically sucks back through wet o-shaped lips opened to the side (its very cute).
History: When Forrest was only 3 weeks old, he fell off of a transport truck onto an Ontario roadway, where he was scooped up by a motorcyclist. He made it to Sanctuary in Ontario at Cedar Row farm sanctuary, and was soon after driven to his forever home at Wallflower here in New Brunswick.
Forrest was the youngest piglet we've raised at Wallflower yet. Watching him grow up in Sanctuary with freedom to express himself, to explore, and root around, mud to roll in, and with sunshine to enjoy, we know this is the life he is entitled to. Whether he knowingly jumped or luckily fell from that farm truck that day, Forrest is a survivor of an industry that slaughters and consumes his fellow people for food. When we named Forrest, we chose "Forrest" in honour of his family of piglets just like him, who too deserved a life of love. He is one tree, and there are a forest of souls like his that he honours in life everyday.
Favourites: His green bucket, treats, Penelope
Forrest's Mantra: "Everything is A-Ok"
Rue
Sheep
About Rue: The friendliest of her sisters, she may not be the biggest, but as for the loudest, Rue certainly takes the cake! She yells a lot if she needs or wants something, and won't let the urgency be dismissed! The white, heart-shaped spot on Rue's nose is the lightest spot on her whole body, otherwise she is quite dark-black, and shorter furred than her very floofy sisters. She'll greet you by putting her face near your face, until she gets the attention she's looking for.
History: Rue and her two sisters, Perry and Poppy, were rescued from a situation of neglect in New Brunswick in the summer of 2019. Concerns were raised by a number of local individuals, who noticed various sheep and goats being tied up to tires in a field, during the heat of the summer, with very limited water and no shelter from the sun. We were first able to negotiate the release of the twin sisters, Poppy and Perry, and were later able to return after Rue's release was negotiated, also. When they arrived at Wallflower we were concerned for their ligaments as they were tethered tightly and tangled, still as young sheep in their developmental stages. Luckily, all three sheep grew up to be healthy girls at Wallflower Sanctuary.
Favourites: Meg, dogs, her sisters, Homer (the sheep's BFF).
Rue's mantra: "Theres nothing that a forceful "baaah" won't fix"
Periwinkle
Sheep
About Periwinkle: Periwinkle is the only sheep at Wallflower with an all black face. Perri is a sweet, shy girl, who sticks closely to her twin sister Poppy. Perri doesn't mind that Poppy takes the lead, and is happy to graze in her footsteps. Perri as well as her sister Poppy has a vested interest in dogs, and a visit from farm dog Illy or other canines will surely spark joy.
History: Periwinkle and twin sister Poppy, as well as honorary sister Rue, were rescued from a situation of neglect in New Brunswick in the summer of 2019. Concerns were raised by a number of local individuals, who noticed various sheep and goats being tied up to tires in a field, during the heat of the summer, with very limited water and no shelter from the sun. We were first able to negotiate the release of the twin sisters, Poppy and Perry, and were later able to return after Rue's release was negotiated, also. When they arrived at Wallflower we were concerned for their ligaments as they were tethered tightly and tangled, still as young sheep in their developmental stages. Luckily, all three sheep grew up to be healthy girls at Wallflower Sanctuary.
Favourites: Meg, dogs, her sisters.
Periwinkle's mantra: "Travel in a pack, someone's always got your back!"
Poppy
Sheep
About Poppy: Poppy is the biggest sheep of the sisters, and is the self-proclaimed "leader of the pack". Poppy loves dogs, and visits by farm dog Illy are warmly welcomed by all of the sheep. Poppy has a particular interest in dogs though, and excitedly rushes to put her face to Illy's, still with some outstanding work to do on boundary-respecting, as far as Illy is concerned.
History: Poppy and her two sisters, Perry and Rue, were rescued from a situation of neglect in New Brunswick in the summer of 2019. Concerns were raised by a number of local individuals, who noticed various sheep and goats being tied up to tires in a field, during the heat of the summer, with very limited water and no shelter from the sun. We were first able to negotiate the release of the twin sisters, Poppy and Perry, and were later able to return after Rue's release was negotiated, also. When they arrived at Wallflower we were concerned for their ligaments as they were tethered tightly and tangled, still as young sheep in their developmental stages. Luckily, all three sheep grew up to be healthy girls at Wallflower Sanctuary.
Favourites: Dogs, her sisters, Homer (the sheep's BFF).
Poppy's mantra: "Always greet your friends with excitement!"
Rocket
Goat
About Rocket: Rocket man, the guy with the cutest smile and deepest "maaaa". Rocket has the sweetest overbite that shows off his pearly teeth (perhaps as a constant reminder to keep the treats coming). He's happy to hang out in the communal areas to be around others, a privilege he feels quite entitled to.
History: Rocket was our very first goat at Wallflower Sanctuary. He was a victim of a hoarding case close to the sanctuary in New Brunswick. The winter was remarkably cold that year, we'd had multiple weeks of -40°C. Rocket was living unfenced in a makeshift home made with tarps and bales of straw. The living conditions were very rough, Rocket resorted to grazing on trees for food. We're not sure exactly how old Rocket is, but he was clearly an older goat even at the time of rescue-- we hate to think he had been enduring these conditions for a while. Rocket was named in honour of our BoD member Danielle's goat Rocky, who had passed away around the time Rocket came to his forever home.
He yelled a lot when he first arrived, and it became apparent that he may be lonely. We kept an eye out and soon discovered Homer being sold as livestock. We soon brought Homer home to Wallflower too, and the pair have gotten along like long-lost brothers since.
Favourites: Homer, bananas, celery, carrots, special treatment.
Rocket's Mantra: "Graze where the grass is tall and the friends are plentiful!"
Homer
Goat
About Homer: A gentle, shy man with a big heart. This fun guy is quicker than you think, happy to jump around on his enrichment pedestals, bouncing up and down from one level to the next. At nights he is tucked cozily into the barn he shares with his BFF, Rocket, to enjoy some snoozing and perhaps a midnight feast of hay until, the sun comes back up again.
History: Homer came to our attention when he was being given away for free as a meat-animal. Since we had a lonely Rocket already at sanctuary, we worked quickly to rescue Homer, who has thrived at sanctuary life since!
Favourites: Rocket, parkour, munching on greens!
Homer's mantra: "Theres always time for a snack"
Mama
Goat
About Mama: Mama is really a quite lovely lady unless you’re Mu the potbelly. While Mu and Mama have some unresolved differences, she is a very loving and responsible mother to Billie and Spike. Mama is happy to take care of her family, never wandering far from her herd to ensure everyones safety. She has the softest coat which she lets us pet occasionally, while probably leaning next to her caregiver nibbling lightly on their clothes. We’re happy to finally provide Mama with the security and safety she deserves to carry on grazing with her pals.
History: Mama, Billie, and Spike were surrendered to Wallflower by their previous caretaker, an elderly lady, who couldn’t keep up with their care needs. For a while an effort was made to have volunteers go to their old home and help with cleaning and maintenance, but in the end we opted to have them join our Wallflower family, so we could ensure their care and love! Mama is a great mother to Billie and Spike.
Favourites: Spike, Billie, the sheep, her special pink bucket
Mama’s Mantra: “No man gets left behind!”
Billie
Goat
About Billie: A demanding guy with advanced stealing skills and master-escape planning. If the goats are ever making a break for it, you can be sure Billie will be in the front of the line, proudly leading his procession (Mama in the middle, Spike trailing behind). He can be pushy and a major pain, but his enthusiasm and dedication to his own missions certainly keeps life interesting in the goat and sheep field!
History: Mama, Billie, and Spike were surrendered to Wallflower by their previous caretaker, an elderly lady, who couldn’t keep up with their care needs. For a while an effort was made to have volunteers go to their old home and help with cleaning and maintenance, but in the end we opted to have them join our Wallflower family, so we could ensure their care and love!
Favourites: Bossing everyone around, treating every day like an escape-room.
Billie’s Mantra: “Someone’s got to be the boss, I elect me!”
Spike
Goat
About Spike: Also known as Speckles, Spike is Billie and Mama’s son. His best friend is Homer, who he enjoys spending time with since they are both around the same age and energy level. He loves to wander, graze, and soak up the sunshine. Spikes dislikes include being bossed around by his dad, Billie.
History: History: Mama, Billie, and Spike were surrendered to Wallflower by their previous caretaker, an elderly lady, who couldn’t keep up with their care needs. For a while an effort was made to have volunteers go to their old home and help with cleaning and maintenance, but in the end we opted to have them join our Wallflower family, so we could ensure their care and love!
Favourites: Homer, Mama, Billie, fresh hay
Spike’s Mantra: “Everyday is a good day to explore!”