🐓 Why Key West Has More Roosters Than People (Almost!)


Hey Reader,

It’s Throwback Tuesday, and today we’re clucking all the way back to one of the most frequently asked questions about the island: Why are there so many roosters running around Key West?!

👉 Check out the full post here for the scoop, the lore, and the feathery facts that make this island a little louder (and a lot more charming).


The Short Version (Because Let’s Be Real — These Birds Don’t Shut Up)

If you’ve ever been to Key West, you know what I mean: you step out for coffee, and boom — rooster. You head to breakfast? Rooster. You’re trying to take a quiet sunset pic? Yep… rooster photobomb.

These aren’t just random farm birds — they’re Cuban‑heritage roosters (descended from fighting roosters brought over generations ago), and they’ve pretty much claimed the Keys as their kingdom. No permissions asked. No apologies given. 🐔👑


The Reasons They’re Everywhere

🐓 History: When cockfighting was banned, the roosters were set free — and guess what? They thrived.
🌴 No real predators: With lots of food and few threats, their numbers grew.
🎶 Island attitude: Key West generally loves its quirks, and these loud locals fit right in.


A Rooster’s Life

  • They crow at all hours — not just sunrise. Don’t fight it… join it.
  • They wander like they own the place. (Honestly? Some days I think they might.)
  • They don’t care about your plans or your sleep schedule. 🛌🔥

Have you had a memorable rooster moment on your trip? A screeching duet at dawn or a feathery surprise at brunch? Hit reply and tell me — I want the tales!

Until next Tuesday, stay loud (in a good way) and always keep it Key West‑y. 🌴🐓

Cheers,
Michele
Unofficial Ambassador of Island Weirdness