The Omega Rocks: The Last & Ultimate Barred Plymouth Rock Flock

[Hillbilly Hen]

I sure hope you can get that cough taken care of and that both you and your husband will be feeling better soon

 

[speckledhen]

Thank you, so do I. I have been up since 2:30 a.m. because of it, which happens several times each week and it's 7:04 and I am already crashing.

 

[1muttsfan]

I use the pole across the back of the neck method when I put any older young birds or adults down. I think a kindergartner could do it without difficulty, once you have learned how to do it properly. It takes very little strength and is very quick.

Holding the birds upside down by the legs until they calm down, almost like they are tranquilized, makes it easier, usually less than a minute. Lower them until their head lays on the ground, place the broom handle or whatever across their neck just below the head, stand on the the pole on either side of their neck, and pull up on the legs until you dislocate the cervical vertebrae. It takes surprisingly little effort in young birds. You'll feel a little pop when it happens and they'll start flopping around.
Do it on a hard packed surface, not the soft ground.