Found my chick 6 feet up in a tree last night!

[nmab05]

So I have four 19 week old chicks. They've been out in the coop for about five weeks and doing well. They free range during the day then all hop back in the coop at dusk. Well two nights ago when I went out to close the coop I found Lucy, my RIR sleeping up on top. I picked her up and placed her in. She was irritated when I did it. Then last night, I went to close up the coop and Lucy was no where to be found. I looked all over the yard with a flashlight and started thinking the worst. I didn't see any sign of distress such as feathers all over and such so I just kept looking. My poor daughter was really starting to freak out. I was too but I was not showing it for the sake of her. It turns out Lucy was up in our tree sleeping 6 feet up. My husband got her down and placed her in the coop with the other gals but she was irritated at that again. Crazy chicken.

So I was wondering if I should maybe clip her wings or if maybe I should coop her up for a couple of days or so???? Any thoughts?

 

[Judy]

I have a Houdini who escapes the yard almost every day. Fortunately we have a dog who patrols and runs coons and such off. I am reluctant to clip her wing because if a coyote or whatever does go after her, she will have a lot less chance of being able to escape. Lots of people do clip them, though. it's up to you.

You could try cooping her up, but I'm afraid if she wants out badly enough, a covered run is about the only solution. I have seen them flap and climb on a fence to get out.