Chickens in prams and nappies? Inside China’s bizarre but booming pet trend

A surprising trend from China is grabbing global attention —and it’s not about tech or economy this time. Chickens, long associated with the dinner table, are now becoming unlikely internet stars and household pets in several major Chinese cities.China’s city residents are raising chickens as pets, taking them out in prams and dressing them up. (Pexels)What began as a quirky trend on social media has grown into something much larger.A cultural contrastIn regions like Guangdong, where a popular saying goes, “No chicken leaves here alive,” the idea of raising chickens as pets might sound ironic. But that’s exactly what is happening, according to a report South China Morning Post.Also read | Candidate tells HR they’re ‘highly unprofessional’, blocks them interview no-showOne such case is that of Aguai, whose story is now being widely discussed online. What began with three fresh eggs gifted relatives turned into something unexpected when the eggs hatched. Instead of treating the chicks as food, Aguai chose to raise them.Meet the ‘Phoenix Fairies’Aguai’s pets belong to a rare Chinese breed known as Taihe black-boned silky fowl. These birds are typically prized for their culinary and medicinal value, but in her home, they serve a very different purpose.With their soft, snowy feathers and elegant posture, they are often nicknamed “Phoenix Fairies.” Beyond their looks, Aguai describes them as easy to manage and affordable, with monthly feeding costs staying under 30 yuan (around ₹450).‘They understand you’: Owners share experiencesPart of what’s driving the trend is the belief that chickens are more intelligent than they are given credit for.Also read |