To combat this pesky problem, reality TV is taking the reins. After all, who's better at solving problems than the brilliant minds behind shows like Duck Dynasty?
A new series, cleverly dubbed Chicken Hunters, is looking for Miami-based bird trappers with "flair." So if you think you've got what it takes to round up the squawking flocks, this might be your big break.
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"Wild chickens have been overpopulating the streets of Miami for years. They are often loud and disruptive in the early hours of the morning. Some of these chickens and other fowl also have diseases," says Danny Villa, executive vice president of TwoFour America, the show's production company.
The concept of chicken trapping in the 305 is nothing new. Apparently, taxpayers were funding just such an endeavor until recently.
"The City of Miami set up a group of animal trappers to deal with the problem of stray chickens. They were called the Chicken Busters, until the the program was defunded," Villa says.
So for those who think they've got the skills to chase down our feathered friends, the show has some specific requests."We are looking for trappers from all walks of life. We would prefer them to have some experience as well as loud personalities that embody the flair, attitude, and style that Miami has to offer," Villa says.
According to the audition announcement, the series will follow "the lives and adventures of skilled chicken hunters with big personalities as they search the streets of Miami and South Florida catching feral chickens and other problem pets to make serious cash."
That's right, folks. Serious cash.
But what are the top skills that make for a successful chicken hunter?
"Being fast, clever, and fearless helps. Having a good team strategy and unique trapping mechanism will always set you above the rest. The best trapper teams catch upward of 80 to 100 a day."
Which begs the question: What happens to the animals after they're trapped?
"Most chickens are sold or donated to local pet stores and farms throughout Miami," Villa says.
Let's hope that's not a nice way of saying they end up as drumsticks.
Applicants should send their name, email, and cell phone number along with a recent photo and brief explanation of why they'd make a great Chicken Hunters candidate to [email protected].
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