One lonely hen

[katie80gleason]

I've recently lost 2 hens to Hawks. (At least I'm guess that since there is no sign of struggle or intruders otherwise) if I put bird netting up over top with some red ties on it so they won't fly in, is that a decent solution ? Also, now I am down to one lonely 10 month old hen. I read I should quarantine any new chickens I bring in but cannot buy another coupe for this process. Is it better to keep my Chicken alone or take the chance of bringing her in a pal? Also...is there another way to quarantine another hen without another coupe ? TIA!

 

[ChickenChaser9]

Chickens want the company that a flock provides. She will be happier with friends. You can keep the new bird/s anywhere that gets low foot traffic and that is separated from the Hen you have such as a ad hoc corner of the garage or a spare bathroom really for one or two birds you don't need a lot of space for quarantine.

 

[kidcody]

Sorry to hear about your lost chickens, yes chickens are very social creatures and always need companions. They sleep better eat better and over all are happier chickens. It would be best to find another companion to insure a happy family. There are many unwanted chickens out there so perhaps finding one of those will help your sole chicken friend. Best of luck! We are all here to help...if you were closer I would send some chickens your way....

Autumn Farm Orpingtons/ Washington State

 

[sunflour]

Hello and Welcome to BYC.

So sorry about your losses and the lone hen issue.

Good luck with her and your plans to find her some flock mates.

 

[Chicken Girl1]

Hello

and Welcome to BYC!

So sorry you lost some girls . I have had hawk problems and the best solution was cover the run. I also agree with the other members, your girl is better off with a friend. If you have any other questions feel free to ask!

 

[BantamFan4Life]

Welcome to BYC! I'm glad you joined us!

 

[N F C]

Sorry to hear of your losses. Hawks will keep coming back once they know where to find a meal so covering your run is an excellent idea.

Good luck finding some chicken friends for your one girl.

 

[drumstick diva]

OR you may want to make her a house chicken. Please check out "people with house chickens." Often times birds are so happy with being in the house - they forget all about chicken friends. She would also be safer from predators if she let her out in a covered pen for supervised outings. Humans do make good substitutes for poultry.

 

[katie80gleason]

To handle my house chickens' bathroom needs: should I put a diaper on her or will she learn to use the potty? Also... Where does one buy chicken diapers?

 

[CuzChickens]

Hello there, and welcome to Backyard Chickens! I am so glad you joined us, I do hope you will make yourself at home here. Enjoy BYC! I have heard of some people just letting their chickens roam the house with no diaper and just keeping the Clorox wipes handy. I think that is the nicest for the hen. Google ''Chicken Diapers'' and there are a few good resources that should pop up. I have heard of some folks ''paper training'' their chickens, though I am not sure how you would go about it.....