Hello from LLO

[sourland]

Good morning, and welcome to BYC.

 

[Vickischics]

(1) Are you new to chickens / when did you first get chickens?
We have had small numbers of various breeds of chickens over the last 28 years. Our first 2 chickens were Buff Orpingtons. Our 14 year old son chose them in 1994. We have had Americanas and Black Australorps and some unknown. Most of the care of the chickens fell to my husband and children. I was busy caring for the people!

(2) How many chickens do you have right now?
We are empty nesters now. We were down to 2 very old hens who had quit laying. I decided I wanted fresh eggs and that I wanted to be the chicken keeper this time. Last March - 2020 - we brought home 12 chicks: 3 Barred Rocks, 2 Barnevelders, 4 Rhode Island Reds and 3 Anconas. We lost 1 Barred Rock chick the first night and one RIR got an eye infection I struggled to cure. We saved that chick and named her One-Eyed Willie (Remember the Goonies?!)

(4) What are your favorite aspects of raising backyard chickens? I have really enjoyed watching these chicks grow up. We were so excited when they started laying! Every egg is a miracle! I was hoping for more variation in the egg color, but aside from the white Ancona eggs, all the others are a medium-light brown. They have been good therapy for me during this Covid-19 time.

(5) What are some of your other hobbies?
I enjoy reading, riding my bicycle, traveling, gardening, and meeting weekly with my prayer group.

(6) Tell us about your family, your other pets, your occupation, or anything else you'd like to share.
My husband and I have been married 461/2 years. We have 5 grown children and 11 grandchildren. Chickens are the only animals we have now. There are deer and rabbits around, but mostly we try to keep them out of the garden!

(7) Bonus: How did you find BYC, how long have you known about BYC, and what made you finally join our awesome community?
I found BYC by accident, but read quite a lot because I find everything interesting! I have finally joined because I am looking for some answers for a chicken issue.

You have definitely come to the right place when feathers go flying. Welcome to the best group around on BYC.