Cockerels saved after being dumped in cardboard box near Southampton

The RSPCA is warning people to carefully consider whether they should take on poultry as pets, after two cockerels were found dumped in a box in Hampshire.

The two adult cockerels were found in a cardboard box by a passer by on a remote lane between Nursling and Romsey, near Southampton on Sunday (8th September).

The animal charity took them to its Solent Branch, The Stubbington Ark, to be cared for.

Animal collection officer Katie Wood says it is not uncommon for cockerels to be abandoned by their owners.

She says: "At the RSPCA we often have a number in our care looking for new homes. They can be difficult for us to find homes for as any new owners will need understanding neighbours who don’t mind the potential noise of cockerels crowing, and this can put people off from rehoming them.

“However, chickens can be so rewarding to keep and though cockerels can get a bad rap for being noisy and sometimes aggressive, with the right care and knowledge, they can make great pets and are absolutely fascinating to watch and care for."

More information on keeping poultry as pets can be found here.