Cassandra Gardiner returns with this week’s offering. Guest opinion articles do not necessarily reflect the views of the publication. Ed
One of our hens has grown-up to be a cockerel. We have a similar situation with Daisy, our tom cat. Although he is of slender build and with a pretty face, the vet explained this is a boy; after a couple of early mishaps the substitute name Poopaa stuck.
The mistaken identity doesn’t seem to make a difference to either, but it was a surprise for us.
Poopaa stays, as my daughter states, “he’s family” and since his coming-out we have two more cats – argued on the point my daughter wanted a grey, female kitten. Mowgli, now a large handsome grey puss and his slender, sable, sleek sister, Marmite.
Back to whence he came
Pearlie the rooster is to be returned and swapped for a hen. My daughter deems him unattractive and the prospect of a chick beckons. However I’d disagree.
Admittedly upon first impression he does have a native, nutty, jungle bird look about him, but he is a champion in my eyes. With a tall strut, his head poised on a long neck, slim and firm, with beautiful shining green, black tail feathers and a spiky head-dress, he is a dapper chap.
Ruler of the roost
Specifically he is a Silver-laced Polish Bantam. The only one amongst our flock of our Pekins and a Silky, and he does rule the roost. Apart from his calling signal, which doesn’t make the cock-a-doodle-do class, he gracefully shepherds the hens with the use of his wings.
First a wing is spread to the ground, then there is a beating as the wing butts, almost fully extended like a fan, on the grass as he motions the hen forward. Throughout the day if he notices one is straying or perhaps not paying attention, his authority steps-up and he gives a quick reminder, as the team scour the garden for bugs, berries, crumbs and seeds.
Blinkered approach
One small disadvantage is his elaborate plumage crown, and the ornate red and metallic purple skin doilies around both eyes, restricting his vision. When startled, like an old boy comfortably nodding off then disturbed, his head will flick-up, alert, as he ascertains what’s going on.
This can take five to ten seconds before the wings flap, he begins strutting back and forth, and in military mode he shuffles the girls to a safe spot, then with a fidgety pace maintains guard until he sees all are out of danger. He is both an entertaining character and a gentlemen.
Early riser
Living close to the centre of town our neighbours have mixed views. Several are excited, even enquiring after him, but his early morning wake-up calls are not favoured by all.
Originally he came from a small-holding in the country, to where he will return and be amongst his own. Currently in our household he is the Sergeant Major and shows no fear challenging for what he believes is rightful.
Handsome and unique with his personally tailored top hat and tails, he gives-off an air of defiance remaining simply true to himself, Pearlie.
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