Adopting 5 older gals...

[Mrprez]

Day 2 went pretty well. We decided to fence in the coop so that we wouldn’t have to constantly check on the flock throughout the day. They can move pretty quickly and I was afraid they would wander off.

So, today I went to the local farmers co-op and bought a 100’ x 4’ roll of 2x4 welded fencing. Using that and some metal fence posts I was able to surround the coop with a 20’ x 30’ enclosure. Once I had it fence up, I was able to herd them through the gate. I don’t think they were too keen on the idea but I will let them out whenever one of us can keep an eye on them.

About 8:30 right after sunset, I walked up to the coop and there were no chickens to be seen. I went in and peeked through an eave vent and all five were inside ready for bed. I closed the door and bid them a good night.

 

[Mrs. K]

I so hope they give you a few eggs, you are hooked!

 

[danceswithronin]

I just think it is so nice you are giving these older hens a home.

 

[Mrprez]

That would be nice but right now I’d settle for them not running away from me! I did add a nesting box in the coop as the previous owners said they thought one of them was laying a few eggs a week.

 

[Mrprez]

I just think it is so nice you are giving these older hens a home.

Well thank you!. I would have taken them all (10 hens and a rooster) but thought I should start small. I’ve already gotten very attached to them.

 

[aart]

So, today I went to the local farmers co-op and bought a 100’ x 4’ roll of 2x4 welded fencing.

Exactly what I was going to suggest!

I went in and peeked through an eave vent and all five were inside ready for bed.

Awesome!!

 

[Mrprez]

Here’s the new chicken run.

 

[Mrprez]

We had an interesting experience tonight. We walked over to the coop and watched as the ladies put themselves to bed. One of them who I call Lucy, because she talks a lot, went in much earlier than the rest. The dominant hen, Lacy, eventually got the rest together and into the coop. We think she didn’t see the first one go in because she ran around the pen calling and looking several times. Finally, I had to go in and coax her inside. I watched her as she counted heads. They sure are fascinating.

 

[Mrprez]

We found an egg yesterday afternoon! It was in the area they have created for their dirt bath. Still warm. Mama right next to it. We’re so happy!

 

[aart]

We found an egg yesterday afternoon! It was in the area they have created for their dirt bath. Still warm. Mama right next to it. We’re so happy!

Sweet, Congrats!
Is there a nest in the coop?
Put a fake egg or golf ball in there as 'bait'.