Carnelian

Carnelian, named by Serena after the vibrant reddish-orange semi-precious stone, is a striking New Hampshire Red rooster who joined the FPAS family in late July 2022 as a two-month-old. Normally sweet-natured, he’s had a few bouts of sassiness, but we know he's only trying to protect his lady friends! 🧡❤️🐓

Carnelian’s story is, unfortunately, all too common. As a mishap roo from the backyard chicken industry, he was intended to be a hen. His owner, living within city limits where roosters are not allowed, found herself unable to keep him. Roosters are often considered unwanted by-products of the backyard egg industry, with many facing grim fates, either being discarded, given away to unsafe homes, or worse. Most male chicks born in hatcheries are killed immediately since only hens are valued for their egg-laying abilities.

But Carnelian is one of the lucky ones. Raised by a caring young woman who was determined to ensure he had a good life, she sought a safe sanctuary for him. Despite our lack of quarantine space at the time, we agreed to take him in if she could provide a proper temporary enclosure and shelter for him. She went above and beyond, purchasing and setting up everything herself, even making some modifications to make it cozy for him.

While we do not support the purchase of chickens, we deeply respect those who take responsibility for their birds, male or female, and treat them with the love and care they deserve as pets. Carnelian has always been social with humans and easy to handle. With his handsome, fiery appearance and charming personality, he really stands out in the crowd.