Key West is famous for its unique population of free-roaming chickens, which have become a defining cultural symbol of the island. These birds wander freely across streets, through yards, and around outdoor cafes, establishing themselves as an ubiquitous presence. The sight of colorful roosters and hens leading their chicks is so common that the fowl are often considered the unofficial mascot of Key West.
Identification of the Key West Roamers
The chickens roaming Key West are not a single, pure breed, but a robust, mixed-breed population often referred to locally as “Gypsy Chickens.” Their genetics are heavily influenced by the Red Jungle Fowl (Gallus gallus), the wild ancestor of all domestic chickens, which gives them a lean, hardy physique. This strong genetic link allows them to thrive in the wild, displaying traits such as the ability to fly up into trees to roost and an innate wariness of predators.
A major component of their heritage comes from Cuban game breeds, such as the Cubalaya, historically bred for fighting prowess. These birds were selectively bred for aggression, agility, and a strong, upright stance, characteristics still visible in many of the Key West roosters today. The resulting uncontrolled breeding has created a diverse flock with a wide spectrum of colors, feather patterns, and sizes, making them a true “barnyard mix.”
Physically, the roosters often exhibit vibrant plumage, long legs, and a lean, muscular build that distinguishes them from the heavy, commercial breeds typically raised for meat. Their appearance reflects their fighting ancestry and feral lifestyle. The hens are equally hardy, and their consistent reproduction is a major factor in maintaining the large population.
Historical Roots and Establishment
The presence of free-roaming chickens is tied to Key West’s history, particularly its connection to Cuba and the cigar industry in the 19th century. Early settlers brought chickens for food and eggs, a necessity before the island was connected to the mainland. A significant population boom occurred when Cuban immigrants arrived, bringing with them a strong tradition of cockfighting.
The Cuban-derived game fowl became a fixture of the island’s culture until the sport was outlawed in Florida in the 1970s and 1980s. When cockfighting was banned, many owners released their valuable fighting birds onto the streets rather than disposing of them. This action added a large, aggressive, and fertile population to the existing domestic fowl.
The island’s tropical climate and lack of large, natural predators allowed the population to proliferate rapidly. This resilience, combined with the continuous, if unintentional, feeding from humans, cemented the chickens’ status as a permanent, self-sustaining part of the island’s ecosystem.
Legal Status and Local Management
The Key West chickens are legally protected under city ordinance, treating them as part of the island’s historic and cultural heritage. Harming, killing, or willfully removing the birds is prohibited and can result in legal consequences. This protection reflects a strong local and tourist sentiment that views the chickens as a beloved and unique element of the city.
The large and growing population necessitates management to address concerns like noise, property damage, and excessive droppings. The city uses designated animal control or the Key West Wildlife Center to manage relocation efforts. This process involves trapping nuisance birds and moving them to approved farms or sanctuaries outside of the Florida Keys.
In the past, the city attempted to employ an official “Chicken Catcher,” but the role was short-lived due to public backlash and opposition from local activists. To discourage the concentration of large flocks in populated areas, city leaders passed an ordinance banning the feeding of the feral chickens. Violating this feeding ban can result in fines.