National Chicken Lady Day

Written by: Penelope Wildwood - (updated: October 28th, 2025 at 7:03AM)

As we revel in the delightful enchantment of National Chicken Lady Day, we celebrate a remarkable yet often overlooked figure—Marjory Stoneman Douglas, affectionately known as the Chicken Lady. This pioneering conservationist championed the preservation of the Everglades, leaving a legacy that continues to inspire both environmental stewardship and admiration for our feathered companions. On this special occasion, let us explore the extraordinary life and achievements of a woman whose passion for nature and determination to protect it remains timeless.

The Life and Times of Marjory Stoneman Douglas

Marjory Stoneman Douglas was an indomitable spirit, a beacon of resilience born in 1890. Her journey began in the world of journalism, where she wielded her pen with grace and conviction. Yet, it was her fervent advocacy for women's rights and environmental conservation that truly defined her legacy. In 1947, she penned the groundbreaking tome, The Everglades: River of Grass, a work that illuminated the vital importance of preserving the Everglades' unique ecosystem. This book became a clarion call, awakening a nation to the beauty and fragility of this natural wonder.

The Chicken Lady: A Symbol of Conservation

The endearing nickname "Chicken Lady" emerged from Douglas's tireless crusade to protect the endangered Everglade Kiyi, a bird renowned for its resplendent plumage. Her unwavering dedication to conservation earned her this affectionate moniker, embodying her steadfast commitment to safeguarding the natural world. As we commemorate National Chicken Lady Day, we pay homage to her enduring legacy and the indelible mark she left on environmental advocacy.

Conservation Lessons from the Chicken Lady

• Preserve Natural Habitats: Douglas's work serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of safeguarding unique ecosystems like the Everglades. By preserving these habitats, we can protect biodiversity and ensure the long-term health of our planet.
• Empower Individuals to Make a Difference: The Chicken Lady's accomplishments underscore the profound impact a single person can have. We are all capable of effecting positive change through small, meaningful actions in our daily lives.
• Promote Environmental Education: Marjory Stoneman Douglas's influential book, The Everglades: River of Grass, exemplifies the transformative power of education in raising environmental awareness. By sharing knowledge, we inspire others to join the conservation effort.

Celebrating the Chicken Lady's Legacy

As we gather to celebrate National Chicken Lady Day, we reflect on the remarkable contributions of Marjory Stoneman Douglas to environmental conservation. Her life's work serves as a poignant reminder of the significance of preserving our natural world and the vital role of individual action in driving positive change. Let us continue to draw inspiration from the Chicken Lady's extraordinary life, each of us striving to make a difference in our own unique and meaningful ways.

A Quote to Ponder

"You can't conserve what you don't understand." – Marjory Stoneman Douglas

As we ponder the wisdom of the Chicken Lady, let us endeavor to deepen our understanding of the natural world and our place within it. Through this journey of discovery, we can forge a path toward a brighter, more sustainable future for generations to come. Embrace the spirit of Marjory Stoneman Douglas, and may her legacy be a guiding light on our quest to nurture and protect the Earth.