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.
