Animal Care Feature from Andrea: Remembering Nancy

by Andrea White, Animal Care Manager 

Dear Nancy,  

You have lived a thousand lifetimes, loving with all your heart and being loved in return more than you could ever know.  

When you arrived in March 2017, you were weak and sick, and we weren’t sure you’d make it through your first week. But you surprised us by living another 412. That’s 2,881 days of joy, compassion, care, and friendship. Nearly 8 years of walks to the garden, truck rides, cuddles, and tasty snacks. We never knew how long we’d have with you, so we cherished every single minute. At just 42 days old, you were destined for slaughter, but fate intervened. You lived 70 lifetimes longer than you were meant to, and we are so grateful for every moment. 

You have left us with so many memories.  

I remember when you joined us for a tour one day, walking the whole way with such determination. Everyone cheered for you at the end, and I was so proud.  

I remember you stomping around the barn, your signature stomp, biting our ankles if we weren’t feeding you fast enough—or maybe you were just being your sassy self. You rightfully earned yourself the title of “Barn Boss.” 

I remember how quickly you learned your own name and would come running over if we called you. Or pretend that you didn’t hear us so you could finish the snack that you weren’t supposed to have.   

I remember afternoons in the garden. You eating fresh kale right off the stock and taking dust baths in the garden beds.   

I remember when there was a large construction project at the front of the barn and you had to be there checking it out. You loved big construction vehicles.   

I remember lying on the floor with you the first night that you arrived to let you know that you weren’t alone. You fell asleep resting you head on my shoulder. A few days later you took your first few steps after not being able to walk for some time, following a trail of blackberries lined across the floor. You diligently ate each one.   

I remember the first time you met Dolly. She was so sick, just as you were when you arrived. You sat by her side every day while she slowly got better, and continued to stay with her every day after. You made nests for her, sang to her, and took her on walks to your favorite spots. Your love healed her.  

I remember the first time you met Moby, and for reasons known only to you, you immediately disapproved of him. You were always so certain of yourself, unwavering in your opinions, and weren’t afraid to voice them.   

I remember the first time you crowed, and we realized you were a rooster - though I’d long suspected it. We briefly debated a new name, but in the end, we knew that "Nancy" suited you best.  

I remember introducing you to anyone any chance that I got. I wanted everyone to fall in love with chickens as much as I was. And with you. It never took much convincing. I talk about you any chance I get.  

I remember your voice. We could always tell what mood you were in or what you wanted based on your tone.  

You lived your golden years with strength and spirit, teaching us the art of slowing down and appreciating life’s small moments. Fate brought you to us, and I have always thought of you as the luckiest chicken in the world. But the truth is, I’m the luckiest human for having known you. It is a beautiful thing to witness someone go through their entire lifetime—through triumphs and tough times. Not even cancer slowed you down. But time is the one thing we all must face, and it has now passed for you. Your aging body grew too weary to keep carrying on, so we knew it was time.   

And so, you get to live a thousand more lives in the memories of all of those who have loved and cared for you.  

Thank you for the memories.   

Love you forever.  

Andrea