Recently, I casually mentioned a
Spring Surprise. I ended up with a broody hen this spring and decided to give it a go. She's been on five eggs and all was going well. Yesterday chick #1 hatched out and we were all very excited. I had decided not to separate the hen and chicks from the rest of the birds, hoping that the Mama would take care of things. Well, she didn't. I'm not sure if she just felt pulled to sit on the remaining eggs or what but the other chickens got a hold of that chick and well they did what chickens do. When we found her she was quite mangled and barely alive. I was just sick to my stomach about it. What to do now, I asked my
chicken mentor and she gave me the details on what had to be done, for the dying chick and the mama and possible other chicks. Sooo, with a sad heart I put the chick out of it's misery and then went about moving things around to make sure the remaining eggs/chicks would be safe.
It was a hard lesson to learn. I guess what I wanted to happen was just not going to work with the nature of chickens. So, now the hen and chicks are in my garage safe and sound.
And here's the good stuff:
Holding pen.
Don'tcha love my nest box.
I think she looks pretty cozy in that shirt box.
Checkin out the food supplies.
Mama Hen and three peeps
See the little peep sticking it's head out. There's actually two of them in this picture. One in front and one in back.
Can you see the peep in this pick. It's like an I Spy Pic.
10 comments:
Awwww!! They are adorable!! And that is one gorgeous hen too. I'm glad you've had some happy surprises after the first disappointment. But yes, it is indeed a farm lesson well learned! Good luck with your new additions!! :)
Ang: Thanks, they are too cute, peekin out everywhere. Thanks, as always, for all your help.
I see it, I see it! It's peeking out from the wing!
So cute, I'm glad things are going better now. That nest/shirt box is creative and hysterical.
Im glad that your sad days have turned to happy ones. Those peeps are the cutest things ever. I cant wait to see them and listen to them.
Like I told you yesterday, you are a true farm girl now, especially when you've not only had to make the hard decision to put one of your babies down, but then done it yourself. I can't believe that last picture - I had to enlarge it before I could find the chick...absolutely adorable. Good luck with your new chicks!
Michelle: Thanks, and hey you use what you have right?
Marc: I can't wait for you guys to see them.
Danni: Thanks, I feel like I've crossed over. ;0)
Fun to be a grandmother, isn't it?
Gail: Totally! :0)
yay! i found the eye spy pic chick ha ha those are some cute chicks
Jor: Thanks, you should bring the boys out to see them.
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