grannys gone and done it

[campingshaws]

I've got a problem, and I'm trying to get opinions. We're spending Thanksgiving in Iowa and I'm paying some kids up the road to check on my chickens once a day. I usually let them have the whole yard, but for four days they're going to be in the run (while the teens watch them). My run is a little too small for the size and number of chickens I have. Are they going to kill each other?

 

[gbsamuels]

I looked at your picture and the amount of chickens you have. It seems that you have a lot of room for everyone to have their own space. I'm no expert, and I don't have roosters, but my experience is that if they have food and clean water, they will be fine. And they'll get to know new humans! Have a great Thanksgiving!

 

[Ol Grey Mare]

I've got a problem, and I'm trying to get opinions. We're spending Thanksgiving in Iowa and I'm paying some kids up the road to check on my chickens once a day. I usually let them have the whole yard, but for four days they're going to be in the run (while the teens watch them). My run is a little too small for the size and number of chickens I have. Are they going to kill each other?

I wouldn't worry about it for four days - chances are everyone will be just fine. I would talk with the kids about signs of issues and what you would like done if they see them (ie perhaps that if aggression is seen you would have them turn them chickens out for a short time under supervision by them and then put them up - I would have them come over and watch you move the birds in/out just in case so they know your routine and how you get your birds to do what you need them to do)

 

[campingshaws]

I wouldn't worry about it for four days - chances are everyone will be just fine.  I would talk with the kids about signs of issues and what you would like done if they see them (ie perhaps that if aggression is seen you would have them turn them chickens out for a short time under supervision by them and then put them up - I would have them come over and watch you move the birds in/out just in case so they know your routine and how you get your birds to do what you need them to do)

The white hens can be real bullies, I guess that's where my concern is. I'm going to set up extra feeders and water.

 

[Suzierd]

My friend loaded a picture for me. I found this little trinket at the goodwill and bought it for the many seramas i was too have. LOL it is just as cute with the buddy birds in it.

So cute!

 

[Granny Hatchet]

The white hens can be real bullies, I guess that's where my concern is. I'm going to set up extra feeders and water.

how about a dog house and some netting to stretch across the run? put the bullies on one side? It looks like they have plenty room to me as well.

 

[campingshaws]

how about a dog house and some netting to stretch across  the run? put the bullies on one side?  It looks like they have plenty room to me as well.

I have the tractor they could go in, if it was necessary. It's not as weather proof as the coop. The lady said they've had chickens before, so I think the kids will do a good job.

I guess I'm just a nervous new mama.

 

[Granny Hatchet]

caution is a good thing. I will point out though if they have been together for a while without drawing blood i see no reason why they would now. maybe tell the caretaker if he sees one that is injured to put it in the tractor with some food and water ?

 

[Wishing4Wings]

Quote: That's a good idea. Maybe a treat block would be a good distraction too, or any treats that take a while to eat. Hang a head of cabbage on a cord so it swings. Have your chicken sitters throw in a bunch of kale or collard leaves every day. It will give the bullies something to focus their energies on. If they are used to being out daily, you are fighting boredom as much as anything.

 

[campingshaws]

Well we're going to experiment with keeping them in tomorrow because we had a loss today. My pullet was finally well enough to go outside, and a few hours later was killed by a hawk.

So everyone is staying in tomorrow.