Retrieving lost hen

[Mountain Peeps]

Welcome to BYC! Please make yourself at home and we are here to help.

She should return!

 

[Michael OShay]

Definitely let us know whether or not you get her back.

 

[vanwilhen]

Thanks for welcomes and the advice. I did have look last night before i posted this, no sign of her. And again today... put some food out, nothing. There's lots of water around here, and food for her without me giving her any, in which case any of traps are doubtful to work. So i'm guessing she's just living it up as a free bird for now. There are lots of coyotes, cats, coons, etc. around, but she was very skiddish to begin with, so as long as she stays that way, she might be alright. An owl would probably be my guess if anything was to get her. Lots of old barns in thearea too so maybe she's in one.

On the bright side, the other Chickens seem to be adjusting alright, and the kids love them too. I'd like to let these chickens be free range asap. I would guess about a week in the pen so they know that's their safe place, then let them out just before sunset and gradually increase the time out. Any thoughts on the free range timing?

thanks again

 

[sumi]

Sorry to hear about the hen. Hopefully she will turn up, when she hears the rest of the flock. Your timing with the free ranging is good. After a week in their new home they will know where "home" is and will return there to lay (hopefully

) and roost.

 

[vanwilhen]

Hey guys, the hen was at the coop this morning! hadnt seen or heard from since she flew away. i still cant get near her, but atleast she's still kickin. hopefully she'll join up with the flock when i start letting them out, and go back into the coop with them at night. We're going to name her Lucky (if she can stay alive).
oh, and i collected my first egg today... cool!

 

[Michael OShay]

Hey guys, the hen was at the coop this morning! hadnt seen or heard from since she flew away. i still cant get near her, but atleast she's still kickin. hopefully she'll join up with the flock when i start letting them out, and go back into the coop with them at night. We're going to name her Lucky (if she can stay alive).
oh, and i collected my first egg today... cool!

I'm glad to hear your hen is okay, and congratulations! It's always so exciting to get that first egg. Good luck in getting many more.