In Key West, you can hear roosters crowing at all times and see them along the streets.
To the surprise of many tourists, there are roosters and hens all over Key West. One of the explanations for their presence is that they were initially bred for cockfights and to get eggs from the hens. Once cockfighting became illegal the population roamed about our tropical island.
The population has exploded and as a result, so have the local opinions about them. Prior to the ordinance passed in 2021 that banned feeding chickens, one resident was seen feeding a 50-pound bag of feed to them and their neighbors worried about public health-especially with thousands living on one island. Others feel frustrated by the droppings on railings, porches, and other outdoor areas. Even with the ordinance they are still fed and usually they are fed the wrong foods.
In 2004, a chicken catcher was hired to relocate half of the population to a farm. Only eight were caught and each one was freed by Key West residents. These attempts to remove chickens led to a four-day ChickenFest festival (no longer held) where attendants dressed in chick suits, headdresses, hats, and masks.
These birds are cherished by countless locals in Key West and have been a source of inspirations for local businesses like the Funky Chicken Store on Duval Street.
Local organizations work to support the health and relocation of sick, injured, and orphaned chickens. The Key West Wildlife Center rehabilitates over 1,400 native birds every year. Included in their native bird rescue rescue work on the island, they rescue chickens. This center partners with Peat Marsh Ranch north of Lake Okeechobee where the Key West chickens live free range and organic farms to naturally support pest control and fertilize the ground.