Captain Lewis "Louie" Magellan of Lowell is our new, and first ever, Rooster. In less than 48 hours of being with us he has schooled us in the lifestyles of roosters, real quick! I love animals though, especially my chickens, and I am really hoping we can work together and find a mutual peace....
I have huge goals for this tiny parcel of land. I am going to tackle this barren tenth of an acre from a permaculture perspective. I am going to prove to myself that I can cultivate lots of nourishment right here in this tiny space. The chickens are part of the plan. Of course they give us beautiful eggs, but there is more to it than that. Chickens can be great garden helpers.
Last spring we lost one of our Austrolorps to a hawk. Here in our new house, we have already chased a hawk away. We have also had multiple Eagle sightings overhead. They would love a tasty chicken dinner. A friend offered some insight as to the importance of adding a Rooster to the flock. Captain Louie's job is to protect my ladies (well, technically I would say they are his ladies now, if you know what I mean). The hope is that he will keep watch and call out a warning when needed.
Here is the thing though, that I can't figure out......What is so dangerous about 4:45 am??? I know, I know, DUH, Roosters are loud, really loud!! 4:45 though buddy? So, out of desperation, compassion, and a distaste for failure..I googled it! How to quiet a Rooster. I know I don't need to capitalize the word Rooster, but a Rooster as loud and beautiful as Captain Lewis Magellan of Lowell, deserves the big R! Here is what I found, multiple sites offering the same advice.....A Rooster Collar!! What? Yup, you read that right, a Rooster collar.
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=iJkFJrVq87Y
It just so happens that we had some Velcro on hand! So, we are in the stages of testing this fantastic idea. If we can get the results we are looking for then everyone wins! The neighbors, Captain Louie, the chickens, and everyone in this house who wakes up at to the smallest sound......meaning me, the tired mom! If this works, Louie stays here, where he will not be dinner, he will hopefully be a daddy! He will carry out his days guarding his ladies and sharing his love. We will keep getting homegrown eggs, maybe some sweet little chicks, all the chicken poop we could ever want for our garden, bug control, free composting help, and so much more!!!! Stay tuned to find out what Captain Louie's fate will be. Maybe we can convince you to get a Rooster too......
Blessings to all.
Thanks for reading,
Island Momma