I only have one hen left

[edithbunker]

I'm sorry to have posted in the wrong forum before under pest/ predators.
I had three of my hens get eaten by a bobcat and now I only have one. We do not want to buy chicks
and keep them separated until they are old enough to get along. Does anyone have advise on how to raise a hen by herself? She is only less than a year old and kept inside now unless I'm outside with her.
Thanks

 

[MoriahQuilts]

I don't know anything about raising one hen, but I'm sorry for your loss. I dread finding chickens that have been attacked. Neighbor lost 8 last week from a dog. Its hard. Have heard some suggest to rehome the one left, or get her an older companion.

Good Luck.

Ann
MoriahQuilts
Lindon, UT

 

[Dixiedoodle]

I would try to find a couple of hens that are her same size. You could get different breeds if you would like. Chickens are flock animals and really enjoy being w/ others. Since I haven't raised one hen alone, I can't make any suggestions to help you..Hope she stays safe and happy.

 

[Mahonri]

I would suggest you get more hens. They are social animals.

 

[WoodlandWoman]

I'm sorry for your loss. Sometimes it's hard to know what you need for housing or whether you can free range in an area, until you actually get chickens and start living with them. Most chicken predators just don't come around until then, so you don't know.

Maybe after you have a chance to work through your feelings, you'll feel like getting her some other friends. They really are a lot happier in a flock than they are all alone. If you need any help with ideas for making your remaining chicken more secure, just ask.