In the Chinese zodiac, 2017 is the year of the rooster. So, I thought I would tell some stories about chickens this month. Over the years, we have had many chickens who have clucked their way into our hearts forever. There are so many stereotypes about chickens, but getting to know them over the last eighteen years has allowed me an insight into their intelligence and affection. I am now a firm believer that they are like feathered dogs: capable of language, profound relationships, family, friendships, and deep understanding.

Many years ago, we had a rooster named Charlie. He was gorgeous, very macho, and adored by the ladies. At night, however, instead of roosting in the barn with the others, he chose to sleep on the ground in the corner of the barnyard. Because chickens cannot see once it is dark, and I feared for his safety, every evening I would go get him and bring him to a coop where he was safe until morning. One night I had friends over while I was putting the finishing touches on the evening feeding routine. As a joke, I called to Charlie to come to me as I was dreading crossing the yard to get him. My whole life I had heard that chickens were not so smart, so even though I called him, I didn’t expect him to understand. However, much to my surprise as soon as I had called him, Charlie came running to me as fast as he could. I was blown away! Each night thereafter I would simply call Charlie and he would run to me, and with a kiss and a hug I would put him to bed in his coop for the night.

Charlie was one of the very first chickens to show me that the stereotype about these birds is wrong. They are in fact intelligent and very affectionate. They have a diverse language and are actually very generous with each other. Every time I would bring treats to the barnyard, Charlie would make a very specific sound to summon the ladies. The hens would come running as Charlie watched proudly as they all ate. Charlie would close his eyes and fall asleep when I held him in my arms. He was a gentleman and a lover and I was at a deep loss when he passed away from old age years later.

As Howard Lyman said, “We are all the same. The only difference between the species is our perception of them.” Come out to The Gentle Barn soon and hold our chickens, have them fall asleep in your arms, and fall in love for the first time!

By Ellie Laks
Founder, The Gentle Barn