Got a poorly chook

[kirsty b]

Quick and last update.

The girls I brought home to recover have now been back down the run for 4 days. Standing, walking about, eating and drinking. Just starting to get their clucks back as they have been very quiet for the past week or so.
Despite our efforts, mr fox came back and made off with the other 2 so I only have my little convalescents now.
They put themselves to bed very early, which is no bad thing as they probably still need lots of rest and I know they are safe in the coop overnight.
They are not laying, but thats no bother, they will when they are ready.
Have tightened up security so that a mouse would now have trouble getting in!
Getting an Araucana (or 2, depending on budget) tomorrow to keep them company from a breeder just up the road.

Kirsty

[Birdie Wife]

Heavens, it sounds like you've really been through the mill with your hens! They're lucky to have someone who's willing to spend so much time and effort to help them thrive - good for you. I'm glad all these bad experiences haven't put you off keeping hens. Good luck with introducing the Araucanas, I'm sure they'll be fine. Blue eggs are a bonus! It sounds like Mr Fox will definitely be back, he knows where to get a meal now so make sure they're very secure - it sounds like you're already there.

[kirsty b]

Fox got on top of henhouse and then jumped over fence - 8ft high! for original visit, for subsequent luches, he must have found a gap.
Run now roofed and all gaps have been chicken wired. Planning to nail carpet gripper rods to top of house to deter any more foxy acrobatics.

[moggssue]

Oh Kirsty, I do feel for you with all you've been through lately. Keep your chin up, and here's hoping that your hens make a full recovery and that this is the end of your problems. Thinking of you, and them, Sue

[TPeers]

And I thought I had problems!

All the best, Araucanas seem very friendly - mine jumps into my arms when ever I go and check the run!

Terry

[kirsty b]

The araucana is a lavender one, she's pretty, and has been duly named Lavender. The rhodie is now called Rhodie and the Warren has been christened Dotty, cos she is a bit.
Have broken my rule of no names! just don't tell my OH

Cheeky sod got dragged down to the run to meet her. His comment? 'bit poncey looking isn't it?' blessed cheek!!

[TPeers]

Challenge him to make you a better one then!

My Araucana is also a lavender - beautiful aren't they!

[kirsty b]

It turns out that Lavender is actually Larry!

Steve went to let them out this morning and our new hen was straight out, givin it the biggun with cock-a-doodle-doo all over the place!

Can't have a cock due to nearby houses and people who moan, so its off to the breeder for a swap in the morning.

[TPeers]

Oopps!

[SueA]

Oh dear, and your O.H called him 'poncey' looking too!
Hope your girls are fully recovered now (bet they thought their luck was in when the 'pretty boy' arrived!

[yoanbob]

Hi Kirsty, have only just seen your post and i really feel for you.
good luck keeping mr fox out.