Chicken Knit

Posted by Renee Blixt Jun 30, 2009

Earlier this week, I was perusing the current issue of Vogue Knitting and came across a remarkable charity that is taking wing in the U.K.

The charity is called, “The Battery Hen Welfare Trust.” BHWT is a rescue operation for ex-battery egg-laying British hens. According to its website, BHWT’s aim is “to inspire as many of you as possible to do all you can to help us achieve a better future for the 18 million battery hens currently in their cages.”

So those of you who don’t wish to warm your a la king (queen) in the traditional manner, (such as at 350 degrees for approximately 40 minutes) now have a brand new way to keep that chicken nice and toasty.

You see, oftentimes, when an egg-layer’s career is over, she is merely turned into fricassee. But! That doesn’t have to be the case! Many UK residents are now “adopting a hen,” allowing her to live out her natural days in a city backyard. Apparently, retired hens need help adjusting to life outside the work world.

Knitting vests for these hens is crucial because one of the largest problems these hens face is their lack of feathers. In a battery, hens become quite agitated and lose their plumes. So, when their golden years arrive after their golden eggs leave, it’s a challenge keeping them warm.

There are several Chicken Vest patterns available on the web. They keep the hens simmered comfortably while their feathers are growing back in. (You’ve gotta love those creative juices, bullion-flavored or not!)

It’s unfortunate that the hens seem to dislike the vests altogether. In fact, videos show that they may even find it traumatic. Too bad…that does tend to make the whole concept fun afowl, ahem, afoul.

I’m not just mocking these bold, barren beauties. Au contraire! I find dressing up unwilling hens in sheep’s clothing wholeheartedly amusing. That is, unless these gals are allergic to wool. In that case, perhaps this charity isn’t all gravy...