Roosters have an undeservedly fowl reputation. Before starting my role at RSPCA ACT I knew little about roosters and just how many come through our doors each year. They are some of our longest staying residents and the hardest to adopt out.
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So where are all these roosters coming from?
Chicks are often taken home with the hope that they will be good layers and provide families with fresh eggs. The reality is that half of them will be roosters and it normally takes a few months before you can sex the animal with any level of certainty.
What people may not know is that roosters actually make great pets for the right family.
They’re unique and individual: Chickens and roosters all have their individual character traits that make them great companions. It’s not unheard of for roosters to develop a bond with their humans – even resting next to them or running to greet them after time apart.
One of my favourite roosters that we had here was a small-sized named “Romeo.” We called him Romeo because every time he was paired with a new hen, she would start laying eggs and then get adopted.
They’re smarter than you think: Despite their poorly deserved reputation, poultry are actually A LOT smarter than you might realise. They have complex social structures and are able to communicate with more than 24 vocalisations – all with different meanings. Some studies even suggest they have a level of empathy and self-awareness. In fact, while studying, researchers have found that they’re capable of math, problem solving, navigation, recognition, self-control, observational learning and more!
Not too long ago, our behavioural trainer was teaching some of the roosters clicker training, much like we use for dogs. They learned to essentially go through an obstacle course of tyres for their food reward at the end using this training method.
Therapeutic benefits: Not only does caring for chickens get you outside regularly, but did you know they’re great for your mental health too! In fact, poultry have been used as pets to provide therapeutic benefits for people living with autism, dementia, depression and more!
They’re environmentally sustainable: They can turn waste into food! What other type of pet can do that? Their manure is a great fertiliser for gardens, and they’re exceptional for getting rid of pests from your garden.
Keeping poultry, like any other animal, has rewards but requires the owner to care for the animals appropriately and maintain them in hygienic conditions. You can find out more regarding their welfare as required by the Animal Welfare Act 1992 by visiting the ACT Government website at www.health.act.gov.au.
While a pet rooster may not be for everyone, if you’re interested in an intelligent pet that’s a little out of the ordinary, a rooster might just be right up your alley.
If you are interested in adopting one of these loveable feathered creatures, view their profiles online at www.adoptapet.com.au.
- Tammy Ven Dange is the CEO of RSPCA ACT.