A cock is the male of any type of domestic fowl, and cockfighting is a blood sport in which two (or more) cocks are placed in a ring or confined area and encouraged to attack or fight each other. Cockfighting is illegal in all 50 states and the District of Columbia—but remains legal in Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Although cockfighting is illegal in all states, the potential punishment for the crime varies from state to state. In thirteen states, a first offense charge of cockfighting is a misdemeanor—including Alabama, California, Hawaii, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Mexico, Ohio, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, and West Virginia. But in California, Louisiana, and New Mexico, second, third, and subsequent offenses may be prosecuted as felonies.

And some states also prohibit possession of cockfighting tools (implements) such as a gaff or slasher; ownership and training of cocks for the purpose of cockfighting; and attending cockfighting events.
Cockfighting laws are generally located in a state’s statutes—and usually in the state’s penal or criminal code.

In Colorado, cockfighting is illegal and considered a serious offense. Under Colorado law, cockfighting is classified as animal cruelty, which is a felony offense. This includes owning, possessing, keeping, or training any cock with the intent to engage the bird in a fighting exhibition. Additionally, Colorado prohibits the possession of any cockfighting implements, such as gaffs or slashers, which are devices designed to enhance the bird's fighting ability. Being a spectator at a cockfighting event is also illegal and can result in criminal charges. The penalties for these offenses can include significant fines and imprisonment. The relevant laws can be found in the Colorado Revised Statutes, specifically under the animal cruelty sections of the criminal code.