Prince Harry and Meghan Markle may have to leave their flock of rescued chickens in California when they move to the UK, according to reports. However, reports suggest their two dogs will make the journey across the Atlantic.
The pet claim comes as the family prepares for a reported UK return with Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet. The Express reports that the Sussexes will make the move this month, six years after settling in the US.
According to Hello! magazine, the couple’s black Labrador, Pula, and their beagle, Mia, will join them in Britain. Their chickens will reportedly stay at the family’s Montecito property, where staff will continue to care for them.
Which pets will Prince Harry and Meghan Markle bring to the UK?
Harry and Meghan adopted Mia from the Beagle Freedom Project in August 2022. Pula, whose name means “rain” in Setswana, is also part of the Sussex household.
The logistics appear more complicated for the chickens. Relocating the flock from California to Britain is reportedly considered impractical, making it unlikely that the birds will join the family at their new home.
If the arrangement goes ahead as claimed, staff will look after the hens at the Sussexes’ existing California residence. Harry and Meghan would therefore leave the birds in familiar surroundings rather than attempt an international relocation.
Prince Archie’s close bond with the Sussex chickens
The Express suggests that the separation could particularly upset Archie because of his close attachment to the rescued hens.
Photographs and footage have shown the young prince taking an active role in caring for the birds. He has appeared collecting eggs and helping to tend to the flock.
The Sussexes keep the chickens in a backyard coop called “Archie’s Chick Inn”. Harry and Meghan’s televised interview with Oprah Winfrey gave viewers a look at the coop in 2021.
The flock also includes Sinkie, a hen who previously lived with Ellen DeGeneres. Sinkie moved to the Sussexes’ coop in early 2024 and will reportedly remain in California with the other birds.
Archie and Lilibet’s move to Britain
The Express reports that Archie and Lilibet will start at a British school in September. The location of the Sussex family’s new UK home has not yet emerged.
The report claims that having Pula and Mia with them will offer the children comfort as they settle into their new surroundings. Meanwhile, staff will continue caring for the chickens at Montecito.
For Archie, however, leaving Archie’s Chick Inn behind could prove one of the more emotional parts of the family’s reported move.
ED! has contacted representatives for Harry and Meghan for comment.
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