Fluffy Butt Acres: Stories of our flock

[RoyalChick]

Ask Aurora
Today's questions come from 2 Human Servants!
@knoturavggrl View attachment 3590202 writes……

@BY Bob I was wondering there are multiple people here dealing with way way to many and/or to often broody hens.

Would you mind gently requesting that Queen Aurora could perhaps issue a beak-book statement explaining that remaining chick free is a valid option and not to be so hasty about hatching out more of the adorable troublemakers.

I am certain myself, @Ponypoor, @RebeccaBoyd , @bgmathteach and probably a few other folks I missed would be so grateful and willing to send cheeseballs and/or meal worms to seal the deal .

Thank you and Queen Aurora for considering the request .



And @RebeccaBoyd View attachment 3590203 writes…….

I second this. I also request that Queen Aurora sends out another royal decree to my lot through beakbook. Please tell her that if they must hatch chicks, *looking at you Momma Hen*, then please for the love of all things holy, pullets please. I really cannot wait for that bat to hit henopause and stop laying entirely. Momma Hen is worrying me. She is spending a awful lot of time on the hillside. She should be back to laying since I sold her chicks 5 almost 6 weeks ago. Holly was within a week. Not a single egg of hers has been found. I do not trust that bat. All it takes is for her to hide away and lay 3 eggs in a single spot for them not to be disturbed and it triggers her. EVERY SINGLE TIME. Well, that or just laying for 2 weeks in general before she starts thinking about chicks again.

*edited to add*

If you can convince Aurora to get through to my lot I will pay her with blueberries. Lots of Blueberries and overripe cherry tomato's that she does not have to share.


Dear @knoturavggrl & @RebeccaBoyd

This is a first. Letters from human servants. Asking me to intervene on their behalf with their chicken tribes. And what riches they offer. Cheese Balls, Meal Worms, Blueberries, and overripe Cherry Tomatoes. Cherry Tomatoes that I don’t have to share.

Let me set one thing straight right now.

I don’t have to share.

Everything here is mine. I just happen to know the value of allowing others to share in the bounty of food that is so rightfully mine. I even let that thing Phyllis enjoy a treat now and again. Everyone gets a portion so that they can appreciate the benevolence that is my just and right rule.

Such a conundrum you present me with. On one hand, I truly love all of the snacks you have promised. They are all my favorites. Add to that the drop off in meal worms available here since the human servants figured out my trick of always having someone stationed at the backdoor and you make a compelling offer. On the other hand, it truly is the way of the chicken to reproduce and make more chickens. Chicks are the greatest gift and Momma hens do the work for all of us hens who are more career minded.

I’m certain you would agree that an over-abundance of chickens is just not possible. The more chickens there are, the more you humans get to serve, and the more you serve us chickens, the more rewarding your life is. These humans have blessed themselves with 100s of chickens to serve. They truly must be the most satisfied and fulfilled humans anywhere.

View attachment 3590200

If I were to accede to your request, I would not only be letting down my fellow chickens but I would also be denying you the joy of serving more chickens. Surely you have room in your hearts and lives for more chickens.

If I won’t do that, you are asking that I at least encourage the ladies to hatch out more hens and fewer roosters. This is much less objectionable to me. Roosters are not for everyone. They are an acquired taste and too many of them in one tribe makes it hard on us ladies. Add in the stories I have heard regarding teenage roosters, and I can easily believe that it would be better for all if there were fewer of them born compared to us hens.

What to do? What to do?

I must say I was torn. I thought about just flipping Phyllis to decide which way to go. Heads means I take the food bribes and recommend no more broodies or Tails and I say follow The Way and hatch like crazy ladies.

How do you flip a Phyllis?

You can either wait for her to finish a dust bath and flip herself (which is fun) or you can simply push her off the roost and see if she lands on her head (heads) or her bum/feet (tails). I prefer to just push her off the roost as it is both fun and rewarding.

Here is Phyllis flipping herself.

First the bath
https://www.backyardchickens.com/gallery/phyllis-taking-a-bath.7957584/

Then the shake and flip
https://www.backyardchickens.com/gallery/flipping-phyllis.7957583/

The smart ruler never resorts to just flipping Phyllis to make a decision, no matter how much fun it is. So her is the deal ladies, take it or leave it. I will advise the girls that there are enough roosters around already in exchange for all the “snacks” promised above. You deliver the snacks to me here at Fluffy Butt Acres and I will reach out to your tribes on beakbook and let them know we’ve had enough boys for this year. This way we can keep on adding chickens to the world. Your lives will be made better by serving more chickens and I get more snacks. It is a win, win, win. How often can you say that?

I will be watching for the snacks.

Aurora

View attachment 3590201

Hey girls! I’m going to flip Phyllis tonight. Who wants heads and who wants tails?

Nearly missed this - just heading to bed. Now I can't stop laughing.
Flipping Phyllis
I want tails.

 

[rural mouse]

The chickens me thing that surprised me was that the black chicks I have were. Born grey with white breasts! I would never have guessed that Tippy would be jet black! And than look at Floyd! Where the heck did he come from?! I though grey or something.

So I look at your yellow chicks and think yep gonna be purple!

I'm still looking at Enigma and trying to figure out where she came from (my eggs). Then Storm turns around and hatches another all yellow chick!

 

[BY Bob]

If there was ever any doubt that Butter was the Queen of my flock, and there was not it is evident in her passing. The pecking order is broken and chaos reigns in my flock at the moment. I wrongly assumed that Momma Hen would take back over the top spot that Butter took from her. Nope, she has other things on her mind, she is very close to laying again and we know where that will eventually lead to. I have 3 girls currently vying for the top spot and 2 are surprising.

Heir Apparent #1 Holly.
Besides Momma Hen, Holly would have been to me the obvious choice to take over the top spot. Holly is trying to take over. She has always been ruthless on the roost. If she deems you unacceptable you are not allowed to roost beside her and she will unmercifully throw you down. She has carried that over to her daytime behavior now. Everyone is getting pecked if she does not get her way. If she succeeds to become top hen, she is another Aurora in the making.

Heir Apparent #2 Squirrel.
Never saw this hen trying to be top hen. She has always been a go with the flow and not upset the apple cart kind of girl. Butter is gone and she is challenging everyone. She wants to eat first, get the best roosting spot now and prime dust bathing spots. If you do not give in she pecks on the head hard. If they do not take the hint a hen fight breaks out.

Heir Apparent #3 Chiquita.
This tiny terror is giving both Holly and Squirrel a run for their money. She was already high up in the pecking order as Butter's partner in crime. Like Butter a stern look is all she has to give to have a hen back down. With the exception of Holly and Squirrel. I have lost count of the hen fights that the boys have had to step in to break up this past week.

All that being said, there is another hen who I think is sitting back on the sidelines for a moment and will eventually be top hen. That hen is Raven. Raven is still busy mothering her now 8 week old chicks or else she would probably be in the midst of the fighting. She has already whipped the other 3 girls soundly after they turned their attentions to her chicks. I cannot see her holding onto her chicks much longer. When she lets them go if the top spot is not settled she will not tolerate the shenanigans' that are going on. Even if one of the other girls secures in miraculously in the next day or so if they try to dominate Raven she has already proven she will not submit without a fight.

I have never lost a dominate hen before to a predator. I was not ready for the chaos that ensued when the pecking order is thrown totally out of balance.

I also have never suddenly lost a top hen. Most everyone knew a change was coming previously. Please keep us posted on how it all shakes out. I am fascinated to learn what happens and how they all settle it.

For reference, Daisy, the greatest hen ever, died of salpingitis. Everyone knew she was sick. Patsy was sick for weeks before she passed. Lilly was up there in years but it was clear Aurora was preparing because she seized the number two spot 4 months before Lilly passed. All of mine have been peaceful transfers of power.

 

[BY Bob]

Nearly missed this - just heading to bed. Now I can't stop laughing.
Flipping Phyllis
I want tails.

I know its late but i hate to wait until after work to write it today. I'm glad it made you laugh.

 

[BY Bob]

Family is here for supper and they keep taking my phone or slapping it out of my hand - no cell at the table (but that doesn’t mean me of course), so they keep interrupting me and my quality FBA time

Tax

Out and about today
View attachment 3590062

Put down the phone and be with other humans. BYC is not going anywhere. Geeze Kelly.

 

[BY Bob]

There is just something about the light your way today, the colour in the photos is amazing

And of course the wee ones are adorable (babies, and you know me and babies )

I agree @rural mouse your photos are top drawer these days.

 

[BY Bob]

I know exactly how you feel and went through much the same agonizing myself.
All I can do is share how I thought about it - and happy to really debate over PM if you would find that helpful.

In the end I concluded that chickens are happier in groups and so I needed to have enough chickens that the flock could withstand the death of one or more without leaving anyone on their own.

I also didn't think introducing just a single chicken was a good idea.

Remember my context was I went though a phase of losing an appalling number of chickens to unknown causes in a very short time.
It took quite an emotional toll on me and I imagine also the remaining chickens.
Although I do have Marek's in my flock, I am not sure that is what killed them all.

So, I came to the conclusion that I should manage to a flock size of 6-12 and add in groups of at least 3 at a time.
I introduced 5 this time and honestly it has been a bit overwhelming - just counting them all seems to take me forever each night!
But I must say it has made a world of difference to flock dynamics. It seems like everyone has a friend and they have collective routines. I love it!
If I were to do it over I would probably have introduced 4 (maybe 3) rather than 5. With the loss of Eli I only have 7 chickens, so when I lose another one I will probably introduce another three.
I hope that I don't lose one for a very long time, but with Marek's in my flock I feel like it could happen at any moment (as it did with Eli).

So if it were me, I would introduce 3 this year and plan to introduce another 3 next year. Maybe you can get some Buff Orpingtons this year and next year find some more Buckeyes.

Not saying I am right - just how I think about it.

I purposely waited to respond to see if you would RC. As we worked through your strategy together it will not surprise you to see that I endorse you idea.

@ChicoryBlue I agree with RC's line of reasoning here. I personally love having 6. They just seem content. Everyone has someone to hang out with at different times. There is very little drama here these days.

 

[BY Bob]

Do you have a feed store like TSC near by? They usually have chick days, and no minimums. You should call around and see, and likely cheaper than an order from a hatchery.

I like to think I lucked out with the four I got from the feed store, but also I made sure to do a lot of calling and then made sure I knew when they were arriving so I could get them first thing.

May be you can get something like that and get 2 or 3. I would say 3 would be best.

I hear you on the extra work bit, some days I look at my dozen or so chooks and wonder why did I put myself in this position?!

Then they do something funny and make me smile - like kids

Here in the states TSC has a minimum purchase of 4 chicks.

 

[bgmathteach]

I wanted to get two Buckeyes and two Buff Orpingtons earlier this summer, and coop sleeping and run logistics pushed that to next year because I didn't want to set up another coop right now (it would have been eight chickens, and the coop I have will fit six) and I'm still working out the welded wire run configurations and what I'd need there. Then Peanut being ill threw all that onto the back burner. Here's my complicated thoughts currently. I haven't sorted it out.

Everyone's thoughts would be greatly appreciated!

I'm dealing with the sorrow of loss, but love the joy the ones who are still here is really amazing. I'm wondering whether I can handle it all, and handle the care each one may need going forward, and if increasing the numbers will translate to multiplying the worry. I have the finances now and have found vets, which eases the unknown aspect of worrying, but still. And there's a big time commitment, for instance I'm spending a good three-four hours a day in extra care right now, digging worms for Butters and trying to get her to eat. I suppose that one can put in only as much time as one wants. Sort of like giving under-skin fluids to our cat when she had kidney failure, or cleaning her wounds when she was attacked, etc, and giving her brother insulin and checking his glucose.

So getting more chickens, does that mean multiplying all this that many times? On the other hand --

The vet said (when asked) she says that it seems in her experience with clients it's luck of the draw how hardy the stock is when getting birds from hatcheries, she thinks it's genetics. She sees clients who get a batch of chicks and those birds have high mortality rates going forward, and the same clients have another batch that have lasted for years. I asked and she herself said she likes Murray McMurray. They have a minimum order of six chicks.

On yet a third hand -- Another consideration is for Hazel and Popcorn especially now that Butters seems to have one foot in the grave and one on a banana peel. I'm concerned for the well being of the remaining two, should Butters pass. They would probably do better with more companions /underlings (Hazel is Queen now) if they become just two. If one were to die, one sole hen is definitely not good.

Buckeyes aren't to be found now. There's still Buff Orpingtons, and I'm looking at Mt. Healthy. With minimum orders from this hatchery of three, if I order this summer I think six in the coop, three of them young, will work for this winter. I would probably set up another coop either this fall or next spring. The Omlet coop will fit six but I think with the heat and the size of these birds a second coop would be better. (See if they use it, hah!). Then if I'd like more Buckeyes maybe three next year? And that means eight or nine in total, over two coops.

I go in circles.

So, I like your 3rd option. It will give the flock some stability if something happens to Butters. It also will give you some love and distraction (nothing like happy, active little peeps!) And, finally, while they will require some additional time - time spent out encouraging Butters to eat will also be time spent mingling with the chicks, Since you have the time and the money at the moment, and your coop will fit another 3 for now ( as littles) and then through the winter when it is colder - it still gives you plenty of time to make adjustments like you would need to before next spring (which, btw, doesn't increase that time line any - as you would need it before getting new chicks next year and/or before summer with some chicks this year.) I say 3 bo now, and then, next spring3 or 4 buckeyes - depending on how Butters is doing, what you are comfortable with as a max. flock size, etc.

It is really, really good to think about your options! but it also sounds like your 3rd option is doable now - don't get immobilized with worry and not act now. Besides babies now and next spring - what isn't to love about that option!!!

P.S. I would really like to read RCs opinion - she had a tough time and was down to two. She may have already answered - but i will read whatever she says with rapt attention!

 

[LhickenChicken]

Ask Aurora
Today's questions come from 2 Human Servants!
@knoturavggrl View attachment 3590202 writes……

@BY Bob I was wondering there are multiple people here dealing with way way to many and/or to often broody hens.

Would you mind gently requesting that Queen Aurora could perhaps issue a beak-book statement explaining that remaining chick free is a valid option and not to be so hasty about hatching out more of the adorable troublemakers.

I am certain myself, @Ponypoor, @RebeccaBoyd , @bgmathteach and probably a few other folks I missed would be so grateful and willing to send cheeseballs and/or meal worms to seal the deal .

Thank you and Queen Aurora for considering the request .



And @RebeccaBoyd View attachment 3590203 writes…….

I second this. I also request that Queen Aurora sends out another royal decree to my lot through beakbook. Please tell her that if they must hatch chicks, *looking at you Momma Hen*, then please for the love of all things holy, pullets please. I really cannot wait for that bat to hit henopause and stop laying entirely. Momma Hen is worrying me. She is spending a awful lot of time on the hillside. She should be back to laying since I sold her chicks 5 almost 6 weeks ago. Holly was within a week. Not a single egg of hers has been found. I do not trust that bat. All it takes is for her to hide away and lay 3 eggs in a single spot for them not to be disturbed and it triggers her. EVERY SINGLE TIME. Well, that or just laying for 2 weeks in general before she starts thinking about chicks again.

*edited to add*

If you can convince Aurora to get through to my lot I will pay her with blueberries. Lots of Blueberries and overripe cherry tomato's that she does not have to share.


Dear @knoturavggrl & @RebeccaBoyd

This is a first. Letters from human servants. Asking me to intervene on their behalf with their chicken tribes. And what riches they offer. Cheese Balls, Meal Worms, Blueberries, and overripe Cherry Tomatoes. Cherry Tomatoes that I don’t have to share.

Let me set one thing straight right now.

I don’t have to share.

Everything here is mine. I just happen to know the value of allowing others to share in the bounty of food that is so rightfully mine. I even let that thing Phyllis enjoy a treat now and again. Everyone gets a portion so that they can appreciate the benevolence that is my just and right rule.

Such a conundrum you present me with. On one hand, I truly love all of the snacks you have promised. They are all my favorites. Add to that the drop off in meal worms available here since the human servants figured out my trick of always having someone stationed at the backdoor and you make a compelling offer. On the other hand, it truly is the way of the chicken to reproduce and make more chickens. Chicks are the greatest gift and Momma hens do the work for all of us hens who are more career minded.

I’m certain you would agree that an over-abundance of chickens is just not possible. The more chickens there are, the more you humans get to serve, and the more you serve us chickens, the more rewarding your life is. These humans have blessed themselves with 100s of chickens to serve. They truly must be the most satisfied and fulfilled humans anywhere.

View attachment 3590200

If I were to accede to your request, I would not only be letting down my fellow chickens but I would also be denying you the joy of serving more chickens. Surely you have room in your hearts and lives for more chickens.

If I won’t do that, you are asking that I at least encourage the ladies to hatch out more hens and fewer roosters. This is much less objectionable to me. Roosters are not for everyone. They are an acquired taste and too many of them in one tribe makes it hard on us ladies. Add in the stories I have heard regarding teenage roosters, and I can easily believe that it would be better for all if there were fewer of them born compared to us hens.

What to do? What to do?

I must say I was torn. I thought about just flipping Phyllis to decide which way to go. Heads means I take the food bribes and recommend no more broodies or Tails and I say follow The Way and hatch like crazy ladies.

How do you flip a Phyllis?

You can either wait for her to finish a dust bath and flip herself (which is fun) or you can simply push her off the roost and see if she lands on her head (heads) or her bum/feet (tails). I prefer to just push her off the roost as it is both fun and rewarding.

Here is Phyllis flipping herself.

First the bath
https://www.backyardchickens.com/gallery/phyllis-taking-a-bath.7957584/

Then the shake and flip
https://www.backyardchickens.com/gallery/flipping-phyllis.7957583/

The smart ruler never resorts to just flipping Phyllis to make a decision, no matter how much fun it is. So her is the deal ladies, take it or leave it. I will advise the girls that there are enough roosters around already in exchange for all the “snacks” promised above. You deliver the snacks to me here at Fluffy Butt Acres and I will reach out to your tribes on beakbook and let them know we’ve had enough boys for this year. This way we can keep on adding chickens to the world. Your lives will be made better by serving more chickens and I get more snacks. It is a win, win, win. How often can you say that?

I will be watching for the snacks.

Aurora

View attachment 3590201

Hey girls! I’m going to flip Phyllis tonight. Who wants heads and who wants tails?

Oh, and she keeps ranting on about the snacks, the snacks, the snacks. I did think the Phyllis flipping is a bit extreme of Aurora.