For decades, chickens have been a part of life in Millsboro. Legally allowed since 1972, they’ve provided more than fresh eggs—they’ve offered families food security, self-sufficiency, and a connection to our community’s heritage..

Now, some Town Council members are questioning this long-standing tradition. Mary D-Silva, a current Town Council member, campaigned on addressing “kitchen-table quality-of-life issues,” making this an important local conversation for families and residents alike.¹

Even Delaware’s state bird, the Blue Hen carries historical significance, linked to Revolutionary War, soldiers nicknamed them “Caldwell’s Gamecocks.” Keeping chickens isn’t just about eggs and our health —it’s about preserving a piece of our past and protecting a way of life. ², ³

‘Join the Flock’ Today!

Add ‘Your Voice’ to the petition to ‘Keep Chickens Legal’ in Millsboro.

Every signature helps protect this beloved tradition and ensures that backyard chickens remain part of our community for generations to come.

Sources

1. Canfora, S. (2024) D‑Silva throws hat into the ring in Millsboro. Coastal Point, 9 May. [online] Available at: https://www.coastalpoint.com/news/communities/millsboro/d-silva-throws-hat-into-the-ring-in-millsboro/article_6d5b7e0a-0e41-11ef-a6c2-df9a07da586f.html [Accessed 27 October 2025]. ↩︎
2. Thomas, A. (2016) Blue Hens rise to the occasion in national championship victory. University of Delaware, 3 May. [online] Available at: https://www1.udel.edu/udaily/2016/may/blue-hens-050316.html ↩︎
3. Sammelwitz, P.H. (2007) Blue Hen fact sheet. Department of Animal Science and Agricultural Biochemistry, University of Delaware, 26 September. [online] Available at: https://www1.udel.edu/research/kids/challenge/bluehenimages/bluehenfactsheet.pdf ↩︎