A singing “chicken” flocked to McDonald’s headquarters in Chicago today to squawk out a telegram message to the fast food giant on behalf of the hundreds of millions of birds suffering in its supply chain: painful rapid growth and extreme crowding just won’t fly.

In the telegram ruffling feathers at McDonald’s HQ, the “bird,” a costumed vocalist there with Compassion Over Killing, sings:

“Chickens require a number of things: First, they want to spread their little wings. Have room to move around, peck the ground.”

“Rapid growth makes chickens unhealthy, and McDonald’s it’s sad that you can be more wealthy. It’s chickens who pay the price, so stop rapid growth and just be nice,” the song continues.

A national animal protection nonprofit, Compassion Over Killing is a member of a coalition of organizations — including Animal Equality, The Humane League, and Mercy For Animals — opposing McDonald’s cruelty to birds with powerful efforts from a full-page open letter in the Sunday New York Times, to a video billboard being seen by millions in Times Square and more. Today’s telegram is part of a week of actions in Chicago creating buzz around the campaign, following last week’s Times Square demonstration with actor Edie Falco.

“While McDonald’s focuses on its fast food profits, it’s allowing unnaturally fast growth to cripple hundreds of millions of birds in its supply chain,” said Laura Cascada, Director of Corporate Outreach for Compassion Over Killing.

McDonald’s recently told Fast Company that it’s exploring the idea of plant-based alternatives, and now is the time to act if the company wants to keep up with its fast food competitors. As consumers increasingly turn toward healthier and kinder vegan menu options, chains like White Castle are cashing in on the meat-free demand.

“There’s a lot of sadness behind each Happy Meal,” said Cascada. “Right now, McDonald’s has the chance not only to address the suffering of animals raised for its menu, but also to get in on a sizzling meatless market by serving up a vegan option.”