Chicken Mourning her "friend"

[henfoundus]

This will probably sound very strange, but we raised two Wyandotte hens from chicks, and they were very dear to our family, and to each other. Today, they wandered into our neighbor's yard, where her terriers attacked and killed "Marian". Her companion, "Hillary" seems to be mourning, and is calling constantly with a call that we have not heard before....we're not feeling too happy ourselves.
We would like advice or information on when would be a good time to introduce new chicks to Hillary. We have two Cochins that we'd been raising, who will be ready to be outdoors in two weeks. Will they be too small to safely keep Hillary company?
Also, does it make any difference if they are a different breed? Should I try to get a chick of the same breed? The advice you have given in the past has been so helpful. I'll look forward to hearing from you.

 

[island.girlie]

The breed doesn't matter. Because Hilary is lonely now, she should be quick to bond with the newbies. Put the new chickies out with her soon.

So sorry you lost your Marian

 

[Deannep36]

I'm so sorry for your loss and for Hillary.
I hope she bonds with the new ones.
poor baby

Deanne

 

[ThePolishPrincess]

Chickens are very social animals and will make strong bonds. This definately does happen. If she's alone, she may stick to the newbies but there's always that chance that she will attack first. You just have to keep an eye on the babies. But after all is settled out and the pecking order is established, peace should set in.

I'm sorry for your loss. And your hen's.

 

[b.hromada]

I'm very sorry about your Marian, and also for Hillary. Like someone said, it really doesn't matter which breed, she does need a friend. One for you

and one for Hillary

.

 

[crtrlovr]

so sorry; I've had many, MANY animals over the years, and yes, they absolutely DO mourn for their missing / departed friends / companions. I've had some that literally cried TEARS. Give her lots of love and comfort, and hopefully she'll bond very quickly with your little ones. I'm so sorry for your loss.