Graduation

All that time spent with Farina produced a success. He graduated to gentleman roo and was adopted this evening. He is off to a new farm to run a small flock. Three happy, charming little girls showed up very enthusiastic about their new pet. They took to him right away and took turns holding him and talking about their chickens. Farina clucked softly and happily without a sign of aggression. I felt proud of our work together.

I'll miss him, he was a funny little guy. Roosters are not allowed in the city but I can see how vital they are to a flock. He'd always let out a low pitched squawk when a big bird would fly overhead, cluck nicely to communicate he had found food for everyone, chase the squirrels away and of course, he'd crow because he was happy and it's what they do. Farina's crow became a full blown rooster crow. He didn't keep his soft,Bantam Silkie crow for long and these past few days past few days it matured and was loud. Every afternoon he would start at 5pm and then go every half hour until 7pm when I put him to bed. Ouch! I did apologized to my neighbors and told them that this was temporary and I'm not keeping or raising roos. Many were not home at the time, but i still felt obligated. I won't be getting fertile eggs for depressed, broody hens again.

Each chicken I have met has been cute, embodying special qualities and distinct personalities, Farina was no different. One day I turned the radio on for him. Opera irritated him, rock music made him squawk but country music resulted in him nestling down and relaxing. Country music it is. One evening he sat on my lap and watched I Love Lucy episodes with me (part of his rehab). He moved his head from side to side as he heard the different voice. Color tv made him cluck softly.

I know he went to a loving home and will be so happy but I'll miss him like I miss all the other little roos. They really are a special animal and to be able to train them to be sweet to their owners is rewarding.