Elegante, RIP 5.15.13 to 12.21, 2013
Elegante came to us at age 3 days. The little cotton ball tuft on of her head grew into a wild and crazy hairdo. Elegante was a “show stopper” for everyone that visited our Center. One of 2 golden crested Polish chicks, Elegante was named by a Center visitor. The name of the breed “Polish” possibly came about because the English believed this breed migrated from Eastern Europe.
Some Polish chicken facts: They lay white eggs. The crest is caused by a protuberance, or knob, on top of the skull from which the feathers grow, covering it’s comb and flopping over it’s eyes, making it difficult for them to see.
These head feathers affected Elegante’s temperament. While her reduced vision contributed to a docile and friendly nature, she was not easily scared by people because she did not see them coming. Elegante was a favorite because visitors could easily nestle with her. This limited vision however, led to her demise. Elegante did not see “Hawk” the G.I. resident red-tailed hawk coming on 12.21.13. Earth Matter volunteers Shafina, Joseph and Stella were just arriving at the Center for their animal care volunteer shift, and witnessed Hawk swoop down from the tree and deliver the fatal blow. Joseph, age 11, ran at Hawk and scared him away to a near by tree limb where the bird continued to monitor the scene. The family placed Elegante’s lifeless body in a container for later burial.
Dearest Elegante, thank you for coming into our lives. We are saddened that you have been taken away by Hawk. We miss you, and we are seeking ways to protect others in your flock.