Orpingtons!

[CountryMom]

We finally really got to get out in some sunshine today. The Orps were leading the way...ok behind my Hickety Pickety (BR) to find some greens. We still have some rye grass and of course they like to check out the horse's feed pans. I posted pics of some of them over in bantimna's Orpington Contest. Everyone should post some pics there. Looking like a lot of pretty birds.

 

[lildinkem]

CountryMom: I just like to keep this thread going, so I say post some pics here. lolol
I don't let the 17 degree weather slow me down. So you guys get out and have some fun with the camera and show us all why you like this thread.

I popped these off of my young 8 month old cockerel Farenheit 451 aka " FAREN "

 

[joletabey]

Those are beautiful black Orps - wow!

 

[lildinkem]

joletabey: Thank you. Believe it or not, he doesn't make the cut around here. That is why I call Faren, my "F" named birds are the back burner boys. Their in my number 3 pen.
I have a hard time culling off my stock when their young. They tend to stay around alot longer then other breeders will allow. But, who knows. I read that Cara had lost like twenty some birds to a Bobcat. That would be devasting. I lost some last spring to a Racoon. And thankfully was still able to hatch a few out. But, I take no chances anymore. I keep way more then I need for the few breeds I like to have. Glad there is a thread and a site where people can share pics and ideas and info on raising these babies.

 

[CountryMom]

Quote:
boy I hear that. I lost my first round of BBS Orps after a racoon decided to invade. I kept covering up holes and thought I had all the spots taken care of. Night after night for about a week. I finally discovered a 2 X 2 hole in the rafter that he was getting through. Would have never thought it if I hadn't shot him out of there. I didn't realize that a racoon could get into such a small space until you see it with your own eyes.

Now I am starting a new year with just a couple older and the new batch. They are so nice, but not as friendly. I can't say that is the breed though....just that I didn't have as much time to bond with them. I don't think there are many with this color down here, so as I hatch I should be able to sell off chicks OK until I have my flock to a better size than just 4 hens and the one keeper roo.


lildinkem just wanted to add that they are pretty black roos. What a contrast the black is against the snow. Glad they love it! We are back up to summer temps again until tomorrow or Friday. Sigh....ready for spring.

 

[lildinkem]

COUNTRYMOM: Glad you got that Coon. I had 2 that I shot around 3 in the mornin back in June. Those two had killed near a dozen of my birds. mostly my RIR's. but they did get a few of my Orps too.
I noticed that, IF your crazy enough, like me to let a Roo/cockerel roam around the house, they get really friendly. I have one Speckled Sussex pullet who loves the attention. She seeks me out to jump on me for some scratches. And my Blue cockerel, he is a clown, always gettin into trouble. Trying to stir up some fence fights. A real character. And very social. Especailly around treat time. He's your pal. lolol
Here he is causing trouble, he likes to harass the BCM boys while they wait out for a warmer day to go out. At nites their inside. Plus another dozen cockerels as well. This weather sux on my boys combs.