Just lost a chicken and have only one remaining

[yxstu1990]

I just lost my 4-1/2 year old Buff Orpington and am down to a single hen. She is a 2-1/2 year old RIR. Due to a chaotic work schedule, I really do not want to add more chickens. Can my single hen live alone? Is there anything I can do to keep her happy without the companionship of another hen?

 

[noregerts]

She CAN live alone, but what kind of life is that? If you can’t get another hen, maybe you could find a home for your girl.

 

[sorce]

Quit work!

Sorce

 

[glassdragonfly]

Sorry for your loss. I would try to find her a friend if you can't spend time with her yourself. I find that taking care of one is not much different than 2(or 10). Maybe you can re home her?

 

[yxstu1990]

Maybe I will see if someone has a hen around her age that they would be willing to part with. My job changed and now I work during the week in Chicago and only get home to Milwaukee on the weekends and even then I sometimes am gone for two weeks straight so I know she won't get much companionship from me.

 

[glassdragonfly]

Maybe post in the swap threads,you might find someone close that will adopt her if your willing. Good luck with your new job!

 

[gtaus]

Sounds like you are too busy with your job/life at this moment. I hope you can rehome your old girl. Maybe post a picture of your hen at the local feed store(s) with a short write up about the need to rehome. There might be someone out there willing to help your girl and take her in. Chickens are flock animals, it would be a shame to see her live out the remainder of her life all alone. Best wishes.

 

[aart]

Maybe I will see if someone has a hen around her age that they would be willing to part with. My job changed and now I work during the week in Chicago and only get home to Milwaukee on the weekends and even then I sometimes am gone for two weeks straight so I know she won't get much companionship from me.

No one else to take care of her while you are gone?

Sounds like you are too busy with your job/life at this moment. I hope you can rehome your old girl. Maybe post a picture of your hen at the local feed store(s) with a short write up about the need to rehome. There might be someone out there willing to help your girl and take her in. Chickens are flock animals, it would be a shame to see her live out the remainder of her life all alone. Best wishes.

Re-homing sounds like the best bet, for the bird.