Solingen's county council prohibits rooster fighting events

In the historic city of Solingen, a centuries-old tradition known as chicken beheading is under scrutiny. The tradition, a part of the cultural heritage in Bergisch Land, has been a subject of debate recently due to a recent order from the State Agency for Nature, Environment, and Consumer Protection.

Responsible deputy mayor, Jan Welzel, has expressed his disappointment with the ministry's approach, stating that the existing law is simply being applied differently. He clarified that the previous practice in Solingen allowed the preservation of the century-old tradition in line with animal welfare.

Welzel emphasizes that the affected parties can pursue legal action with the administrative courts. However, the city of Solingen is now legally bound and cannot make a different decision. The carcass of the chicken, after beheading, was traditionally used for feeding.

Solingen had regulations for this tradition to balance animal welfare and tradition. The city ensured that the chicken used in this tradition was an older one and was slaughtered humanely by a knowledgeable person beforehand.

Welzel states that the legal basis for the ban on chicken beheading has not changed. He criticizes the ministry for not following the pragmatism shown by Solingen. Despite the order, the city continues to maintain a pragmatic approach towards the tradition while ensuring animal welfare.

However, the search results do not contain information about which institution banned the tradition of chicken dubbing (Hühner entkopfern) in Solingen or the reasons why. The city is now facing potential legal action regarding the tradition.

Welzel urges the ministry to reconsider its decision, emphasizing the importance of cultural heritage and the city's commitment to animal welfare. The fate of this traditional practice hangs in the balance, adding a layer of uncertainty to Solingen's cultural landscape.