Brittanica advises that cock fighting was popular at least by 2000 B.C. in India, China and Persia.  From these ancient civilizations, that sport (so-called) permeated the empires of Greece, Rome and early Briton. Roosters were fitted with metal spurs and fought each other, often to the death, as spectators placed their bets.  The birds competed in tiny corrals known as “cockpits,” a word passed down to early fighter pilots.  Today, cock fighting is illegal in all 50 states.

Have dogs fared any better at the hands of their human masters?  It seems that all dog breeds todday have evolved from a single wolf-like ancestor.  Since antiquity, man has domesticated our “best friend,” breeding physical and mental traits suitable for local customs and environments.  Often these have included organized dog fights.  The Michael Vick case has refocused society’s attention on the insatiable sport of cruelty for profit.  A new federal law has rendered dog fighting a felony anywhere in the United States. 

Many Asian countries still promote matches to the death between cobras or habus (term for cobras used in Okinawa) and the ferocious mongoose.  This furry little critter, not immune to snake venom at all, darts with lightning speed, killing the cobra virtually every time.  Although few can sympathize with the deadly hooded cobra, even the bizarre matchup is unlawful in America.  Riki-tiki-tavi lives on!

The saffron finch, native to South America, has recently been imported to the United States for a miniature version of cock fighting.  The males are fiercely territorial and will fight to the death over the affections of a feathery female.  Ashland, Mass. and Shelton, Conn. are the scenes of recent police busts for illegal finch fighting.  More covert incidents may be expected, since saffron finches are low maintenance, relatively quiet, and easy to conceal.

Massachusetts bans all types of competitive bird and animal fighting per Chapter 272, Section 94 of the Not-so-General Laws.  Violations are a felony and can net a five- year state prison sentence.  And, oh yes, the law protects tiny finches as well.

SILLY STATUTE OF THE MONTH: In Arkansas, it is illegal to put a mule in a bath tub!

Got a question about animal law? Send your questions and feedback to Attorney Williamson and you may see it in a future column. He can be reached at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or by mail to Attorney Gerald Williamson, 71 Legion Parkway, Brockton, MA 02301.