Giant metal roosters have become unexpected symbols of autism acceptance, appearing on lawns in Maine and even reaching New Zealand. The phenomenon began when David and Sara LeBlanc displayed several large rooster statues on their property in Ogunquit, Maine, to comfort their 6-year-old autistic daughter, Pyper.
Zoning Dispute and Family's Appeal
The town of Ogunquit initially deemed the roughly 6-foot-tall ornaments impermissible advertising for the LeBlancs' attached restaurant, The Omelette Factory. The couple argued that the roosters were intended to provide comfort for Pyper, not to advertise their business. Pyper, who was adopted by the LeBlancs, developed a fondness for roosters after receiving a stuffed one and associating them with positive experiences. The statues became a way for her to manage emotions and transitions, such as waiting for the school bus.
Despite the family's explanation, a code enforcement officer issued fines totaling $450 and ordered the removal of the statues, citing a local newspaper article that described them as a way to announce the restaurant's opening. The LeBlancs contended the reporter misinterpreted a customer's lighthearted remark.
Zoning Board's Decision and Wider Impact
The Zoning Board of Appeals acknowledged that comfort objects are often used in therapies for autistic children to aid in emotional regulation and familiarity. However, the board struggled with the number of statues displayed. Ultimately, the board granted a disability variance allowing two roosters to remain in front of the home, deeming them necessary for Pyper's access to the residence. The family has since been fined an additional $500 for noncompliance with the variance's requirement that the roosters be integrated into a railing, as they were initially bolted to the steps.
Moving past the dispute, the LeBlancs have focused on the positive outcomes. They have begun gifting roosters to friends and neighbors to foster support for autism acceptance, likening the act to making "lemonade" from the "lemons" of the town's initial order. News coverage of the situation and a dedicated Facebook page have amplified the story, inspiring support from afar. One supporter in New Zealand shared photos of a rooster statue in their yard, and a motel owner in nearby Wells, Maine, traveled to New Hampshire to obtain a rooster after hearing about Pyper's story, noting the supportive reactions from passing drivers.