I only have hens. As I’m learning their “vocals” have different meanings. I’m familiar with the “I’ve laid an egg” squawk and the “your ignoring us” and “let us out” squawks. There has also been the coo’ing noise as all hens face the same direction as though it’s an alert of some-sort out in the woods that surround us. They’re not freaking out, just “alerting” as best as I can tell.
However, the other day while the hens were “free-ranging” inside the acre chainlink fenced area (I have issues with coyotes, raccoons, fox, possums, etc), they alerted in a way I’d never heard before. When I dashed out to see what was happening, they were all in a line as a gray rat snake was coming into their yard.
What good girls! While on the surface I don’t mind rat snakes as they are focused on eating the eggs (hens are big enough now they don’t “appear” to be on the snake’s menu). I was pleased that the girls alerted on the threat until I got there!
So back on topic, I do believe the hens will send out a particular call when it’s a perceived threat … and the more I respond to a particular call the more I hope they will continue to do it. I think this is more the hens training me as we develop our symbiotic relationship.
As a side note, I find listening to my girls is a life saver … they are speaking to me as best they know how (and best as I am willing to listen). I have 12 pullets that are 13-15 weeks old. They have been free ranging for a couple weeks now under close supervision. I’ve noticed that when an owl hoots (oddly during the day) … the baby girls will head for cover. The primal instincts they have amaze me every day. I just need to listen and be aware to keep them safe!!
Georgette has never made that noise before, and i was shocked...so is it possible, that a hen can give out warning signs when a predator is lurking, and knows the male is not capable?
