The Babies (Chicks) Grew Up!

Sometime in the Spring the
urge to head to Roots Livestock
Auction and buy some chicks came
over both Warren and Myself.

We were down to four layers.
While they keep us pretty well
stocked with eggs we had a whole
second side of the coop available
for some new babies.

So...we went and found six silkies.
Remember these?






Well, like any good parent I went out
and took more pictures the other day.
It is harder now, since they have to
stay in the coop. Thankfully this side
of the coop has an access door on the top.




Normally, I use this door to give
them grass and dandelions.
Oh, they love that.
The hens learned long ago that humans mean
good things. These guys are still learning
that because usually if I am out the dogs
are with me and there is no love lost on
the dogs from the silkies.





If you are thinking they are still
pretty small, you are right. They are
Bantams. Just the right size for our
little coop.

Notes on raising chickens:

1. They need lots and lots of clean water.

2. Keeping food in the feeder makes you popular.

3. Chickens are pretty smart. They will find a
way to get your attention if they need something.
We get such a kick out of this little hen.



She is the "spokesperson" for the rest of the hens.
If they are out of food or water she "tells" us.

4. It is possible to choose favorites out of the henhouse.
Meet Mabel...



She is definitely a star.
I can see her from my kitchen window and
watch the wind ruffle her feathers.

5. Don't forget to provide grit if your hens are
not freerangers. This is necessary for strong egg
shells. Ours must get plenty of grit because they
make very hard shells.

6. While I wish our hens could free range, there are
way too many predators in our neighborhood. We are
also pretty close to two roads. I won't put our hens
at those kind of risks. Predators are a very serious
risk to chickens and eggs. Last week our neighbors had
three black snakes in the coop...at the same time!
Scary!

7. Regarding their safety and as it relates to the coop,
it is very necessary to bury the fence all the way around
the coop. Foxes will dig to get in if they can.

8. For some reason, when I give them greens they have
to take it and shake it good. I find it amusing.



Coming up tomorrow...
I'll be "Hooked on Something".
You'll have to come back to see
what that might be.
It is a very fun party hosted
by Julia at Hooked on Houses.
You would enjoy playing along,
I'll bet. This link takes you to
last week's party so you can get
ideas...or just see what it is all
about.

Sending you wishes
for a very happy day!