A True Gentleman

A boy who lives on this farm is kind, loving, and a hero of sorts. His name is Henry. He’s endured quite a bit for someone his age, from being tossed aside, to being roughed up by another boy who lives here who I call Harold.

Henry and Harold are roosters. Harold has proven himself as the leader and has pushed Henry aside from the flock in plenty of aggressive interactions, leaving Henry to fend for himself at feeding time, and to look for creative ways to keep his dignity with the hens.

Noticing that this was taking place, I took the liberty of feeding Henry separately, just to be sure he felt included, and got his share of special treats. Although everyone can see that Henry is a big rooster and is probably anxious to get some of those morsels, he uses those treats to bring a few hens some joy. Without eating a single offering, he clucks his special “treat” sound, breaking up the pieces ever so carefully, he gives them (and I mean all of them) to the hens who come running at the alert sound.

The hens happily gobble up all that was meant for Henry, as they’d already eaten the bulk of the tidbits that were given to the flock… and he is happy, because that is the amazing being that he has become.

Yesterday, mama chicken and her 6 babies were out of their safety box and Henry did exactly the same thing for the chicks. Being completely unselfish and giving, he clucked his food signal driving all six of those 5-week old chicks to his side.

Previously I’ve seen ducks push the babies away to get to the food. Sheep push a baby lamb aside to be certain they get their share – and most of the lamb’s share as well.  But not Henry – he selflessly gives what he can to the others, in a way that I’ve never experienced before. In an effort to avoid projecting human characteristics onto a rooster, it appears to me that Henry is a gentleman and a saint. To say “he takes a beating, but comes back even more compassionate” is putting it mildly.

Henry is not just a chicken’s best friend – he is also my friend. When I come into the barn to visit or do chores, he finds his way to my side. He’s not afraid or concerned that I might do something he is unwilling to accept – he tolerates all of my loving gestures. Although he’s not willing to jump in my lap after much encouragement, he does come close enough for a pet or two.

I’m one of the luckiest people in the world to be his friend. I’ve never known an individual (of any species) so considerate, kind, loving, or selfless, and I can honestly say, I look forward to each and every encounter with him. He brings me joy.