Matilda Jane

[MissChick@dee]

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Tuesday, Matilda Jane died. She had a rough summer. Her third one in the desert.

She survived a coyote attack three years go, leaving her with only one feather. It took months before she was back to her old self. She had been missing on that day. I called her and she came running out of the vines and sat on my lap, scared, but safe.

Tuesday morning, I found her soaked from the sprinklers. It was as if she had no energy to move out of their way. By the time I got to her she was on her side, nose in the ground.

I brought her inside my office, toweled her and talked to her. As she dried, she became somewhat alert, but still could not stand.

I knew she wouldn’t make it despite the sugar water, and the attention.

And right before she gave up, she sang a deep throated song, like I had never heard her do, and she flew, only a few feet, but she was above the ground, almost as if she had to do it one last time. I started to carry her back to her coop, but on the way, she decided she needed to go.

I will miss my morning coffees with Matilda Jane. She always had the best stories to tell.

Some will say, it’s only a chicken, but Matilda was the best chicken and a good listener.

That song was for you.
I am deeply sorry for your loss. I get emotional every time. I didn’t know Matilda Jane but I know you loved her. She knew it too....

 

[beati]

Thank you! It was incredibly special to have had that time with her. I can't imagine if I hadn't gone out there when I did. I often tell people about how much character they have, and how caring the girls are and they are amazed that chickens are so personable.
I am so glad to have found the BYC group. You are all so kind.