Key West's Feral Chicken Dilemma: A New Feeding Ban Enacted

Key West, Florida, is facing a unique challenge as feral chickens have become a common sight throughout the island, much to the chagrin of City Commissioner Clayton Lopez. With entire families of chickens frequently crossing roads, Lopez has introduced a resolution that has now become law, prohibiting the feeding of these birds on public property. He emphasizes that the measure aims to address both public health concerns and the welfare of the chickens themselves, as their droppings can pose health risks and they often suffer from accidents. The proliferation of chickens in Key West can be traced back to historical practices, particularly the tradition of cockfighting brought over from Cuba. According to Corey Malcolm, lead historian for the Florida Keys History Center, the chickens were once a practical source of food, but as supermarkets became more accessible, residents began to release them into the wild. This has led to a significant increase in their population, with no natural predators on the island to keep their numbers in check. While some locals, like Arthur Bakala, who owns three chicken-themed shops, see the birds as a quirky part of the island's charm, others are concerned about the potential for property damage and the health implications of their presence. The city’s new law aims to mitigate these issues, although capturing all the feral chickens remains a daunting task. As Key West navigates this peculiar situation, the balance between preserving the island's unique character and ensuring public health continues to be a topic of discussion among residents and officials alike.