We have a small flock of chickens, which are looked after beautifully by our wonderful rooster Rupert. Despite his size, he is a big softy, and loves his girls dearly.
Rupert originally came to the wood with his girlfriend Tiger-Lily. They were unwanted showbirds, and were at risk. They were soon joined by a small flock of ex-commercial hens who were destined for slaughter despite only being 18 months old. Sadly in the egg industry, hens are only kept alive for their first laying cycle, as this is when they will lay the most eggs. Thankfully for our lucky girls, they are now enjoying a long and happy retirement at our sanctuary and have the freedom to exhibit normal chicken behaviour, something that is denied in a commercial setting.
