Wednesday, April 2, 2008

In Memorium


The biggest, gentlest Rooster of our farm, was laid to rest yesterday evening. Winston, a Buff Orpington, came to us 3 years ago from a friend who knew that we would keep him until the end of his days. He wasn't named then but because he would emphatically shake his head, making all his wattles move and at the same time give low croaks and croons - I was so reminded of Winston Churchill and his low voice that the name seems very appropriate. So Winston he became and he ruled over the small flock of Buff Orpington girls but with a gentle touch. He always stood back so that a hen could have the food, was a perfect gentleman with me and will be very much missed out there in the home paddock. Over the couple of days that he lay sick, I noticed that many of the hens would come, one at a time and sit with him. He passed at night with his family around.

4 comments:

Maggie's Farm said...

I raised Buff Orphingtons for years, and still have a couple of hens. With adopting homeless chickens, my chicken family is rather colorful now, but I still love those gorgeous golden roosters and hens. Love your site, glad you put it on Spin-List so I could find it.

marchwind said...

Liese Im sorry to hear about Winston's demise. But I'm more than sure he had a very happy life at your farm. I had a beautiful Buff roo, his name was Lear and he died 2 years ago now. My sole surviving roo is Robin an impressive black splash Cochin. He too is oh so gentle with me and the girls. How old was Winston? That is a fine picture of him.

Liese said...

Maggie, I'm happy you liked our site, thank you.

Susan, Winston came to us at probably 3 years old so I'm thinking he was 6, maybe 7. I have to laugh that you named your rooster Robin - that's cute.

marchwind said...

LOL Liese! That is just the name that came to me when I saw him as a chick. Maybe becuase he had what looked like a red breast which he doesn't have now. He has a son that looks just like him. I think when I get rid of the other 8 roos I will keep him along with Robin. Ill need to come up with a name for him though. I'll have to get a picture of Robin, he is very handsome.