Reston the Rooster

Reston came to our neighborhood in September of 2001. Few could believe their ears. Most were delighted by the presence of such an unusual visitor, in spite of the early wake-up calls. We had an elderly cat of 18 years at the time, and Reston dedicated his days to guarding him while he slept, following him where ever he went, and peering through our window to keep an eye on his friend when he came indoors.

Reston chose a comfortable branch in the big magnolia tree and called it home. Winter came and the leaves fell leaving him exposed to predators and the cold weather. Many feared he wouldn't make it. We built many attractive homes for him from wooden boxes and salvaged materials, but he always returned to his perch in the magnolia. Winter snows piled up on his little rose comb, but he made it through the cold time to wake us each morning with enthusiasm.

About the middle of the following June though, when the daylight hours are long and the nights so short, his singing brought him to the attention of an Animal Control Officer who came to investigate. It was true that we all needed a good night's sleep. We then decided to put him in the basement at night and let him out at 8 am in hopes that the neighbors would not be disturbed.

We did some research on where he might go live...Drumlin Farm in Lincoln? MSPCA’s Nevins Farm in Methuen where farm animals go in need of care? But as time passed, he became very tame and good company and decided to stay! Families would come by to see him. Children from daycare centers would stop by to say hi to Reston. Passing cars would stop then back up to see if it was really a chicken in the window box. Our mail carrier said it was the highlight of his day to come by and exchange a greeting with Reston. He made many people smile.

Neighbors and friends of Reston are very sad that he has been taken away.

UPDATE: Previous information from an anonymous caller has proven to be a prank. If you have more information, please, please call or email us.

We want to know what really happened to Reston, and we want our neighborhood to be safe for everyone, people and pets.

If you have any information about Reston, please call 617-515-4559, email us at: info@restontherooster.com or visit Reston’s blog.