“I was just in such awe of the entire scenario …”
Fearless Flock: Michigan Hens Chase Off Curious Bear
In the peaceful countryside of Michigan, around 50 hens spend their days happily roaming the backyard of Jessica Hank, scratching at the grass and basking in the sunshine. But a few weeks ago, their quiet routine was interrupted by an unexpected visitor — and the brave birds proved they were anything but “chicken.”
As Hank pulled into her driveway that day, she immediately sensed something unusual. Her normally calm flock was in an uproar, clucking and flapping wildly. When she looked closer, she realized why — a young black bear had wandered out of the nearby woods and into the yard.
“I was just in such awe of the entire scenario,” Hank told The Dodo.
Instead of fleeing in fear, the hens took matters into their own wings. Hank managed to capture the incredible moment on video, showing her courageous birds charging at the intruder until the startled bear turned tail and bolted back into the forest.
“I was really just shocked that they ran the bear off!” Hank said, laughing. “And it was totally a female-led operation — the hens did all the work while the roosters stood by watching!”
Fortunately, the bear caused no damage and hasn’t dared to return since his encounter with the bold backyard defenders.
To celebrate their bravery, Hank made sure her flock got a little something extra.
“They got extra snacks that night,” she said. “They’re pretty spoiled.”
Now, her hens are local legends — a feathered security team that keeps both predators and boredom at bay.
“My chickens are pretty brave and hilarious,” Hank said proudly. “They definitely make life entertaining.”