Meet the Crazy Coop! July 12 & 19 at the Willow Falls Market in Lehi from 9-12.
Ruby the Rhode Island Red
Common Name, Uncommon Chicken
There's a good chance that you've met - or perhaps had - a RIR hen called Ruby. And why not? It's the perfect name for the deep toned, big personality of the popular backyard breed.
Our Ruby is our oldest bird. She's from our first clutch and was a day or so older than the other chicks, and she takes her role of "big sister" seriously.
From the first day she was quietly bold, gently protective, and destined to be one of our top hens. Never a bully but more of a peacemaker, Ruby represents all of the wonderful qualities in the RIR breed.
One in a Million
Ironically, most of our birds have broken the mould for traditional breed characteristics, such as our bold, focus-driven Orpington, Nuggie; our super friendly and sassy Delaware hen, Snowball; and the subject of this post, Ruby. Even with all of the "nice" things the Internet says about the Rhode Island Red, most say they're bossy, demanding and can be mean - even the hens.
But our girl has maintained her status of head hen without all of the pushiness. And we're so grateful for that! Especially with all the hormones as the older flock is gearing up to lay, Ruby keeps Indi, our accidental Delaware rooster, in line - without vicious fighting.
She's a Royal
Without a doubt Ruby is truly the lead hen everyone desires to have in their flock. She was second to our Black Star Sariah, until Sariah calmed down and moved down the pecking order. It was likely due to a standoff where Ruby had to put Sariah in her place, but now there is order in the flock with the rightful matriarch at the lead. She's still quiet, gentle and curious, but has a no-nonsense aire that's respectable. And yes, I realize I'm talking about a chicken, but I think many people could learn a thing or two from our distinguished Ruby.
This is why we named our Large Flock Block after her. She's a lady to guide large groups to peace and order without force, and keeps our hormonal cockerel in line.
Do you have a Ruby in your flock? Is she also a RIR? Or something else entirely? Tell us about your experience with Ruby's or Rhode Island Reds with your backyard flock!
Stay meepy!