I wake without being called, sleep during the day, and my song is appreciated by early risers. What am I?

The clues perfectly describe the behavior of a rooster. These male chickens possess a remarkable internal biological clock, which prompts them to crow and announce the start of a new day, often well before the sun fully appears. This internal rhythm is so precise that they can begin crowing up to two hours before sunrise, regardless of external light cues. While roosters are most active in the early morning and late afternoon, they do take frequent rests and naps throughout the day, especially during warmer periods, giving the impression that they "sleep" during daylight hours. Their distinctive "cock-a-doodle-doo" has long served as a natural alarm, making their song appreciated by those who rise early.

However, a rooster's crow is far more than just a morning announcement. It's a complex form of communication used for various purposes, including asserting dominance over territory, warning other roosters to stay away, and signaling their presence to the hens in their flock. Roosters will crow throughout the day, not just at dawn, especially if they sense a threat, want to gather their flock for food, or simply to re-establish their authority. This vocalization is a vital part of their role as the flock's protector and leader, and each rooster's crow is unique, much like a fingerprint.

Beyond their vocal talents, roosters are easily identifiable by their vibrant, often iridescent plumage, the fleshy comb atop their head, and wattles beneath their chin. They are vigilant guardians, constantly scanning for predators and bravely confronting threats to protect their hens and chicks. Across many cultures, the rooster symbolizes new beginnings, courage, and vigilance, further cementing its place as an animal of significant historical and practical importance.