R.I.P. John Henry

John Henry was one of our very first roosters at Hidden Haven. He lived to be almost 7 yrs old. I had thought he was even older but was mistaken. John Henry was a wonderful protector of his hens and always so gentle and caring with them.
Always letting them know when it was time to climb the ladder to roost.

 He even took their chicks under his wings. I didn't take any photos of him the past few months as he was getting so tired he couldn't get on the roost at night and would rest on the ground. I would help him stand each morning as his legs were stiff. We thought about putting him down but his eyes were so clear and his mind seemed so alert. We did move him to the green house with 3 hens and for the past 3 months he was very content. He would eat and then sit and watch his hens. If something alerted him he would call and they would run next to him and stand really still. He let us pick him up, hold him, and talk to him. He actually watched as you talked and seemed to understand every word. I know chickens come and chickens go and they aren't really important to most people. They never had a John Henry. He had and will always have a special place in my heart. I have cried over losing goats, dogs, rabbits, and now I am shedding tears for a dear old friend that was always the first one to crow to start my days. For my dear old friend who greeted me each time I opened his pen by strutting tall and proud to show me he was taking care of his hens. For the dear friend that would look so deep into my eyes each time I helped him stand as if to say thank you. For the dear old friend that helped our hens provide us with chicks including his special son John Henry Jr. who is now trying to fill in and do as good a job with his hens. John Henry you may just be a rooster to many, but to me you will always be John Henry, my special feathered friend. You did an awesome job here on the homestead and will always be part of us. Goodbye my friend. Rest in peace.