Cock-a-doodle don’t here, please

To the editor:

(re: “’Fowl’ play in rooster’s return to Ploughman’s Bush,” July 14)

Once upon a time there was a chimpanzee in Riverdale (see The Riverdale Press from 2011) and he was learning sign language as part of Columbia University. He was the strong silent type. 

There are coyotes — I haven’t heard them from my terrace.

There are raccoons — yes, yes, I hear them, often late in the night at the garbage.

There are skunks — haven’t heard them, but don’t need to.

There are cats and dogs. 

There are humanoids.

There are birds of all kinds in all seasons.

And yes, there still are the roosters.

Last year, one — I think maybe two — and lots of hens. Hens are legal in the city. Roosters are not.

The rooster lady last summer finally agreed to give them to a farmer in the Sunday farmers market. It was quiet again. I mean rooster quiet. The “city never sleeps.”

Alas, the roosters are back. Several now. Roosters and chickens. Maybe 20. Their residences have improved — they are louder and louder. 

But roosters are still illegal. They make noise.

I have done all I can. I’ve called 311, the local politicians, The Riverdale Press, even confronted the owner of the birds at Ploughman’s Bush. I have shared the information with anyone who will listen. I have pleaded with neighbors to do their share and wage complaints. 

So far, all has fallen on not-so-deaf ears.

Please help. The rooster lady said we should shut our windows. Not a solution, is it?  She is defensive and annoyed.

I am more than annoyed.

Thanks for listening.

Judith Veder