Insta-famous chook living her breast life

Meet the Instagram-famous chook from the Southern Downs taking the internet by storm.

Southern Downs resident Wendy Tanner with her pet chicken. Picture: David Martinelli

She’s the Instagram-famous chook from the Southern Downs taking the internet by storm.

The Old English game bantam hen aptly named “Chicken” is the star of Facebook and Instagram pages “Life of Chicken”, managed by chook mum Wendy Tanner.

With more than 5000 followers, she’s now one of the largest chicken influencers in Australia.

'Chicken' has already garnered over 5000 followers on Facebook on Instagram. Source: Facebook/Life of Chicken

Chicken was adopted in February 2019 after she caught the eye of Wendy and her partner Dave Tanner at an agriculture show when the much larger hens were seen picking on the sad and sleepy looking chook.

Chicken’s mum and photography enthusiast Wendy then started a Facebook page tilted ‘Life of Chicken’ in 2020, following suggestions from friends, and to bring joy to others online during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Chicken is the family pet that goes everywhere with owner Wendy Tanner from the Darling Downs. Picture: Wendy Tanner

“How Facebook and Instagram started, was because I was spamming my friends and family with chickens adventures and photos and got sick of me just sending all these pictures,” Ms Tanner said.

“They said I should do Facebook because, you know, it brings you joy it should bring other people happiness.”

'Chicken' loves getting out and supporting her local community. Source: Facebook/Life of Chicken

Chicken lives a pampered lifestyle, following her owners wherever they go, and enjoys trips to the shops, rides in the car, supporting community events, and sweet treats including custard.

“She loves yoghurt, cream, custard, and she doesn’t mind ice cream but it does give her a brain freeze,” Ms Tanner said.

“And she loves being around people, she loves a company of people, she’s basically a human chook.”

'Chicken' enjoys storm chasing with her parents Wendy and Dave Tanner. Source: Facebook/Life of Chicken

Chicken has also taken on her owner’s love of storm chasing, proving that she is fearless when faced with the elements.

“I have enjoyed photography for a very long time and I was enjoying storming, before chicken came along,” Mrs Tanner said.

“I used to go out without her and I thought one day, ‘I wonder how she would go?’

“But she’s not scared of it, I’m running before she is. I have to run back and grab her because she’s still standing there.”