The practice of cock fighting, though illegal in 47 states, is a tradition going back several centuries, and thus difficult to stamp out. Cock fights, like other illegal animal fights, take place surreptitiously. Cock fights usually result in the death of one, if not both roosters.
Handlers place two roosters in a pit.
These roosters, armed with sharp steel projections called gaffs, then proceed to peck and maim one another with their beaks and with the weapons that have been imposed upon them. The pit allows roosters no opportunity to escape. Although they have been bred to fight, the animals often become tired, incapable, and suffer severe injuries. Spectators viewing the fights bet large sums of money. The handler of a winning rooster often makes a big profit.