Mirrors

[No More Empty Nest]

Is it ok to put a glass mirror in with bantams? I'd hate to have them peck hard enough at it to break it. The one I have is framed in wood, about 18" x 24" with a chain to hang it from. A neighbor was throwing it out so I'm fine with not using it.

 

[ShellyBlanco]

I've always wanted to put a mirror in the coop too, but haven't tried it yet. When I do, I'm going to use a heavier glass. I think they would like it.

 

[adstowe]

You said it's framed - If you're concerned about them pecking it hard enough to break it, pull the back off and completely coat the back of the mirror with a strong glue, then put it back together. That way even if they did manage to crack it the pieces will still be retained in place by the back and shouldn't pose any significant risk. (Obviously remove it if it did become cracked)

 

[Butterscotchbitesfinger]

Um did you know chickens can recognise their reflection in a mirror
So they will not play I’m so stupid I think there’s something else in the mirror

 

[Feathers Brady]

I have a small round travel mirror that clips on to the fence and the only one that seems to notice is my 3 yr old orpington. She study's it mostly. She doesn't much Peck at it. But, it makes me wonder why she frequently hangs out by it and none of the other five do.
I see no harm in testing it out. Monitor them for a day or so and see what you think.

 

[animalyodelers]

Some chickens enjoy looking at their reflection (just like some people ) I'm going to try it. I would think it would take awhile before they would damage it enough to hurt themselves, although I could be wrong. I would just monitor the mirror for any damage.

 

[Aunt Angus]

A friend of mine has a framed mirror in her run, and her younger pullets love it. It's hilarious! They shove each other out of the way to look into it. Makes me think of teenagers in a locker room! Her older birds don't pay it any mind.

I was thinking I'd try it with my girls of the opportunity ever presented itself. If you do decide to add it, let us know how it goes!

 

[Aunt Angus]

@TwoCrows

Bird, indeed, is the word.

 

[MissChick@dee]

They make and sell safety mirrors. They sell them with pet toys at Walmart. Please do not use glass mirrors!

 

[No More Empty Nest]

Wow, thanks everyone. I'll have to think about what to do. As with most things, differing views, lol. I might try it out when I have time to watch them for a while, see how they take to it. They are only 10 weeks old. I'm supposed to only have pullets, but one turned out to be a cockerel. And if he's too noisy I'll have to see about rehoming him. I have my fingers crossed that one of my cousins who live in rural areas would like him or would know someone who would. He's a nice little mottled cochin bantam.