Infographic comparing Reddit and Facebook engagement for an advocacy post, showing Reddit with significantly higher views and notes on platform differences.

Case Study: Facebook vs Reddit

Same message. Two platforms. Drastically different results.

We recently posted a call for expert testimony to support our Petition for Regulation Change on the legal status of domestic ferrets in California. It was a straightforward ask: biologists, veterinarians, and animal professionals—stand with us and speak out.

Here’s what happened:

  • Reddit: 19,000 views
  • Facebook Business Page: 1,685 views

That’s more than 10x the reach on Reddit, without paying a cent in promotion. So—does that make Reddit the better tool for grassroots advocacy? Let’s explore.

✅ Why Reddit Outperformed

  • Engaged niche communities: Subreddits like r/California, r/legal, or r/ferrets are filled with passionate users who care deeply and engage quickly.
  • Indexed by AI and search engines: More than ever, Reddit content is being quoted by search engine AI like Bing, Gemini, and ChatGPT, amplifying your reach beyond the platform.
  • No ad budget required: Reddit’s algorithm boosts popular content based on relevance and upvotes—not money.

⚠️ Why Reddit Demands Caution

  • Highly critical user base: Redditors are skeptical and sharp-eyed. They quickly call out AI-generated content or anything that feels off.
  • One shot to get it right: Poorly received posts can be downvoted or deleted—fast.
  • Each subreddit is unique: You must follow subreddit-specific rules. Even good content can be removed if it breaks formatting or posting guidelines.

👍 What Facebook Still Does Well

  • Familiarity and control: Your business page is your brand’s home base—ideal for consistent messaging and updates.
  • Follower loyalty: In our case, 75% of Facebook views came from existing followers. Great for rallying the base.
  • Paid promotions (with caveats): Facebook’s ad tools are powerful, but issue-based content like ours often faces restrictions.

📌 Conclusion: Use Both, but Strategically

For reach and raw exposure? Reddit wins. For consistency and long-term community? Facebook still matters.

Our best advice: Use both. Adapt your tone to each platform. Stay honest. And when in doubt, lead with substance—not spin.


🚨 We Still Need Expert Testimony

If you’re a biologist, veterinarian, or wildlife professional willing to confirm that domestic ferrets are not wildlife and do not pose a threat to native species or agriculture—please contact us:

https://www.legalizeferrets.org/contact/

Your voice could make the difference.

#FerretLegalization #GrassrootsAdvocacy #RedditMarketing #FacebookStrategy #LegalizeFerrets