When Societies Put Animals on Trial

The Rooster Of Basel

In 1474, a rooster laid an egg in Basel, Switzerland. This should not be physically possible, since roosters are male, but it was recorded as having happened. If this impossible phenomenon went on today, it would fascinate scientists far and wide. Since it was the 15th century, of course, they thought it was the work of the Devil. The rooster was put on trial for his crimes against nature. It was sentenced to be burned alive. The executioner found three more eggs inside the “rooster’s” body afterward.