I am down to 4 eggs today for 33 hens/pullets.
I did have a 5th egg but it was smashed and partially devoured.
Now comes the real troubling thing. I found on of the gangstra's in a nest box today. (gangstra=Guinea). I cannot prove it was eating or destroying eggs. It is the first time I have caught one in a nest box.
I readily admit I have become prejudice against guineas, but with good reason, whenever I have problems they seem to be behind it. I have informed my DW we may start eating guineas soon. They are fat becoming as disliked as geese here.
I could just lock them out of the coop and feed them to the owls, and would if I did not want the owls to think this is a good safe place to eat.
Giving the guinea the benefit of doubt, can any of you think of a reason for one to be in a nest box, head first feet on the edge butt hanging out, that is innocent?
I really like my guineas in the summer, they are fun to watch and they eat tons of bugs and are good watch dogs, but this time of year they drive me nuts. If I keep them I will need to make them their own coop and covered fence this spring.
When I mentioned eating them or feeding them to my DW she said, they really catch the bugs and travel the whole farm eating them. Then she said they are fun to watch. I guess they will be here next year.
I am doomed to a life of tribulation and strife,,,,,
And usually I get a purple finger or two. But it works to keep the cannibalism away....for the most part.
