That's what I did Wed night. She started to freak out then decided they were all good yesterday morning. Had them all under her, was grooming one of the light ones. Came home from work, she's moved across the coop (like she did the other days). Had the 2 dark ones in close and the others were hiding in a corner. They had full crops, so they'd been with her most of the day and were just starting to get cold. She wouldn't let them back under her. What happened?
There is no telling why she rejected 3 of them. Disappointing but there is not much to do but raise them yourself.
I think you are right. She doesn’t flaul around now. She can move around. And I agree on the toes. When it was her left leg they were so curled under she was getting abrasions on the tops. But so far her right foot hasn’t got that bad. In good news, it isn’t getting any worse so I think she will adapt. But it is why I am in a dither about making modifications inside for ‘furniture’.
At least we aren't dealing with a lone chick like last year with (not so little any more) Storm. Her taking the one means that there's companionship there. The trio at least mean they have a group also. I could go get more of the chicks, but all told, this puts me at 22 birds. Space in the coop when they're adults is going to be on the tight side (extra warmth in winter). Next challenge: boy/girl ratio. I'm pretty sure the dark chipmunk is a bielefelder (auto-sexing) pullet (no head spot), but has a rose comb which puts daddy as the big BO x EE boss of the flock (I think), leaving the auto-sexing a bit up in the air. That's the only one with any sort of clue yet. I really need another cockerel out of these 5 just for escort duties with that many birds. At least that much I'll likely know within a month.
Yes, what is it with chickens and power tools? They are always in the way!
I use 2×2s or 2x4s long way. That way in the winter I know their toes are covered. A 2x4 long ways gives a nice flat surface for her to essentially stand on. No curling of the toes required. That is what my main roost is. Maybe that would help. You need to remember though, she will want to roost with everyone else, not alone. I might switch the roost in the brooder section first to see.
Nellie is louder and will go for an hour when her box of choice is occupied (where Jess went broody....both times). Blanche and PITA will also go off LOUD....PITA gets Cheetah to echo her and go running to do her bidding.
Mine are generally very quiet, however lately Sydney is back to signing the egg song. This has been happening since Lilly passed. I can't tell if the two are related but it seems like she is looking for an escort to the rest of the tribe. Syd is loud too. Very loud.
Scary! I have not seen eagles here but I believe there are some who hang out at the reserve nearby.
