05/28/2026
A lot of people ask why we specifically refer only to What the Flock Rescue in Idaho and what sets them apart from other rescues. For us, it comes down to integrity, ethics, transparency, and consistenly putting the birds first. From day one, Hayley has run What the Flock Rescue purely from her heart, along with her fosters. Every decision is made with the birds best interest as the priority. Not ego, status, or financial gain. She is honest, transparent and realistic about what ethical rescue work should look like, which also includes learning, growing, and accountability, all of which Hayley encompasses.
One thing we respect and admire about What the Flock is how she has intentionally structured it to prevent the overhwelming sanctuary style situations that we have seen in the last 30 years of being in the community. There have been a multitute of rescues that started with the best of intentions but the burnout and overcrowding quickly becomes harmful to both the birds and the rescue and have often times turned into more of a hoarding situation than rescue. At What the Flock, Hayley has created systems, limits, and boundaries that allow the rescue to continue running in a responsible, and sustainable way, all while keeping each birds best interest in mind.
If you haven't caught on yet, EVERYTHING is done in the best interest of the birds! Of course no one is perfect, there will always be situations, but What the Flock does their due diligence to understand their birds, transistion them to healthier diets when neccesary, seek veterinarian care when neccesary, and reviews each application thoughtfully and in a way that sets up the new owners and the bird for success.
A 501(c)(3) title alone never automatically makes a rescue better, instead its the morals, ethics, heart and soul, and knowledge that makes a rescue that we can confidnetly support and refer to.
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It seems as though the battle of rescue titles is nothing more than a game of who’s better than who. As if it’s a popularity contest and we can’t sit at each other’s table if we don’t hold the “holier than thou“ title. Have we forgotten what the true purpose is? Rather than looking at each others mission, values, husbandry and how the animals are being cared for I notice what some consider “legitimate” is nothing more than a title that anyone can sign up for, Not about the care or how the rescue itself runs. It seems many think if one is not a 501(c)(3) title holder they are not legitimate.
 It is important to recognize that operating as an Independent (sole proprietor) rescue is entirely legal in the state of Idaho and can be just as effective and meaningful as becoming a 501(c)(3) (if outside of Idaho make sure to check your state laws and regulations). Keep in mind there are many poorly ran 501(c)(3), as there are poorly ran independent rescues. Just because one has a fancy title doesn’t mean it’s being ran efficiently, honestly or humanely. A tax write off is not what makes a rescue credible. It’s the mission and the actions behind the rescue that matter.
While a 501(c)(3) offers tax-exempt status and certain grant opportunities, it also requires a large amount of administrative effort and ongoing compliance which works great for some! However Idaho does not offer many opportunities for exotics as far as funding goes. Most exotic 501 find themselves paying mainly out of pocket or community support just as we do. As an independent rescue, I have flexibility, direct control over all decisions, and a personal connection to the mission. it allows me to focus solely on providing care, finding loving homes,and building a strong community.
At WTFR we know, understand and strictly follow the Idaho animal welfare laws and regulations Title 25, Chapter 35, Idaho Code. Idaho has specific laws governing exotic birds, with some species classified as restricted or requiring special permits. When bringing exotic birds across state lines USDA and state guidelines mandate health certificates, meaning birds must be seen and cleared by a vet before crossing into Idaho, proof of legal ownership, and sometimes interstate permits are also required. WTFR also abides by all Local city, state and HOA ordinances. By ensuring full compliance with exotic bird laws, invasive species regulations, and interstate transport requirements, we maintain both legal integrity and the welfare of all birds in our care.
When it comes to finances and taxes as an independent run rescue. We want to be clear with the public that any donations made to the rescue—whether in cash, supplies, or other support—are considered gifts. These gifts are not taxable income to us nor tax write offs for you; they’re a generous contribution that supports our mission. However, if we receive income outside of these gifts—such as fees for services, product sales, or other transactions—then that income is considered taxable (this is why our monthly sponsorship goal is separate from adoption fees). By being transparent, we ensure we stay in compliance and continue to serve our residents and the community responsibly.
Whether you are surrendering or adopting do deep dive research on that specific rescue no matter what their status is. Let’s break the stigma and judgment that surrounds this idea that small independent rescues are not legitimate. At the end of the day it’s about the birds and what they need, not about us trying to fit in or be a part of some popularity contest. I have only had a couple of people over the years make a fuss about us not being a 501(c)(3). However I see other rescues or businesses post all the time bashing or trying to spread incorrect information that small rescues are not legit. I believe educating the public about this matter is important.
*to read the entire blog see the link below*
https://whattheflockrescue.com/f/nonprofit-vs-independent
