Peanut, a remarkable 21-year-old chicken, has made her mark in the pages of history as she was officially recognized by Guinness World Records as the world’s oldest living chicken this year.
But Peanut is not just a record-holder; she’s also the beloved main character in a delightful children’s book titled “My Girl Peanut and Me – On Love and Life From the World’s Oldest Chicken,” penned and published by her owner, Darwin.
Darwin, a retired librarian, and her husband, Bill, are the proud custodians of a sprawling 37-acre farm nestled in Chelsea, Michigan, aptly named “Darwin’s Eden.” This picturesque farm serves as the loving abode for a diverse array of animals, ranging from loyal dogs to chatty parrots, from clucking chickens to quacking ducks, and from elegant guinea fowl to magnificent peafowl.
Peanut’s extraordinary journey began in May 2002 when she hatched. Remarkably, she was born without an egg tooth, the small protuberance on a chick’s beak used to break free from their shell. Despite this unusual start to life, Peanut displayed robust health.
However, when her mother rejected her, Darwin stepped in as her nurturing guardian. In the early days of Peanut’s life, she was nestled in a cozy cage right in the heart of Darwin’s living room.
As the years passed and Peanut flourished, she eventually joined the other chickens residing on the farm, taking up residence in a comfortable coop for a remarkable 13 years. During this period, Peanut even became a mother herself, raising a brood of adorable chicks, many of whom were sired by her cherished rooster companion, Lance.
While Peanut may have outgrown her role as a mother, she has found solace and companionship in her golden years, forming a special bond with Benny, a one-eyed rooster who diligently watches over her.
Peanut’s story is a testament to the enduring spirit of animals and the love and care provided by devoted caregivers like Darwin and Bill. It’s a tale that reminds us of the beauty in resilience, the warmth of companionship, and the extraordinary journey of the world’s oldest living chicken.
