Gamble in Vegas

Feathers of Fire: Gambling in the Cockpit

Gambling has developed over the years and comes in many forms. One such form involves both beauty and blood as the fiery feathers of roosters begin to scatter in the air as each blade hits the other like a deadly ballet. This form of gambling is known as cockfighting, which is a sport of blood amongst two fighting cocks specially trained and kept in a ring that is called a cockpit.

Gambling in cockpits is done in such a way that the bets are usually made on the outcome of which cock becomes the victor of the match. Often times, the victory of a rooster is determined by different rules as there are also possibilities that matches do not end up in the death of an opposing cock. In some areas around the world, Cockfighting has been considered and seen to be a traditional sport. Yet many amongst the animal rights groups would beg to differ, arguing that the existence of such a form of gambling is an example of cruelty to an animal.

The fighting cocks usually have tied to their leg area, either gaffs or knives, where the cock's spur has already been partly taken away. This bracelet which is usually made of leather; has a sharp and curved spike attached by the owner to the bird's leg. These spurs vary in length from one another. Some can be an inch to about over two inches in length.

It was as early as the seventeenth century that gambling in cockpits was evident. Even in countries like England. But animal rights groups and sympathizers were able to influence the government in order to outlaw and ban this type of gambling in England and Wales during the mid 1800s (1849). Eventually, it was also banned in Scotland in the year 1895.

Many other countries, like Columbia, Mexico, Philippines, Dominican Republic and Nicaragua have rather established cockfighting arenas that possess seats for the gamblers and spectators watching the ring. It is very similar to having a boxing match in a way, and the cockfighting matches are held almost all day. In some third world countries, there would be instances where an entire family would spend their day in the cockpit to either place a bet, or simply watch the match.

Despite this form of gambling being banned in many countries around the world, including America, France and some areas of the Philippines, there has still been a long tradition embedded in the cultures of certain areas as it has been a part of tradition for many years. Amidst this gambling sport being outlawed, some government officials would just continue to turn a blind eye, even if there would be protests from animal cruelty organizations.