Getting Familiar!

Very exciting day! Today is the first day that the new chickens or our youngest chickens have run to see us when we come to see them.  They usually run and hid in the coop whenever we come near. They have finally learned to enjoy some treats instead of running from the worms as well. :)

As difficult as it made to do the water and the food today without them escaping, the feeling that the lovely ladies are getting comfortable and excited to see us is amazingly delightful!

Picture of the Day 2/19/2013 Sassy Runs as Fast as She Can

Sassy is eight years old.  The other four hens in the flock will be one year old this spring.

Every day when I come home from work, I go out to visit the girls, do poo patrol, and give them an afternoon treat.

Since the flock knows that I come bearing treats, they all come running.  Even Sassy.  But Sassy doesn't run anymore -- she waddles along.  At her own speed.  And if there is snow in her way, she goes around it.

The other girls know that until Sassy gets there, they do not get their treats.  They have not learned patience, but they know that Sassy will get there eventually.

Look how nicely Sassy's feathers have grown back.  Such a pretty lady.

Picture of the Day 1/24/2013 Getting Ready

Every day when I leave for school, it is dark.  When I get home, I have about an hour of light before it gets dark. 

I like to give the girls a treat every afternoon.  I also do poo patrol, collect eggs, and sit and watch the girls.

That is my wind down time before dinner.  My chickens give me cheap mental health!

We get to pick up our rescue chicken tomorrow.  All the reading I have done on transporting a chicken tells me to use a cardboard box, a crate, a rubbermaid box, an animal carrier, or whatever.  I even read someone used pillowcases. 

I have read to have a cover for the box; I have read it is okay to leave it uncovered. 

I have read about putting holes in the box.

I have read to keep it dark to calm the bird.

The one thing I read consistently, is to put pine shavings or straw in the box to keep the chicken from sliding around.

Size of the container also varied greatly.  One site said use a 12" x 12" box so the chicken will not move too much.  Another said to use a box big enough for the wings to flap.  I am not sure I want flapping wings.

So, I think there is no set rule.  Just make sure the bird is safe, comfortable, and calm. 

Picture of the Day 1/23/2013 Boys Feeding Girls

 Ok, I had to put two pictures in.  Two boys mean two pictures. :-)

The boys are enjoying feeding the girls their treats for the afternoon.  The birds are so gentle around the kids.

Picture of the Day 1/21/2013

A cold, windy day deserves a warm treat.  I took some layer food and added hot water.  Mixed it up to a thick soup consistency and gave it to them.  They thought it was a wonderful treat! 

I got this idea from Our Neck of the Woods.  She also makes oatmeal for her girls!