The "Scent" of Spring

[Ted Brown]

We have had a decent winter, a number of days above 0C even in January and February which are our worst months and can seem VERY long. This past weekend we had sunny days and came close to +10C on Sunday and Monday, today only +3C but tomorrow? Forecast for 20CM of snow and back down to -10C and lower for several days, still a ways to go.

But the flock knows something is afoot and are anxious to get outside and bust some moves. Yesterday one of our October hatch ladies decided that she would launch from the coop step onto my sisters shoulders and hang out for 10 minutes. This after sister and BIL decided to take them for a walk.

 

[chrissynemetz]

Seems like we're ALL ready for spring

 

[aart]

Have they been ranging outside of the run regularly?

 

[Ted Brown]

Have they been ranging outside of the run regularly?

Only just starting. They normally crowd the big door as we enter for egg collection/maintenance but then step back looking for treats or food or water.

This past weekend we were more encouraging, leaving the door open while inside and a couple of males would venture onto the stoop and steps but not onto any snow covered areas. Then one (Fausto, see above) left the stoop and into the snow; up above his feet and wandered about for a bit, BIL picked him up, great squawking ensued but he easily went back inside. He now monitors the door when we leave it open as the ladies venture out. One of the October hatch ladies (Diana Berry) was the first to venture off the steps and onto the cleared area in front of the coop, she was quickly followed by most of the ISAs who seem more comfortable with being on the snow and stayed for perhaps 30 minutes.

This morning it seems they are all anxious to be out of the coop and onto the stoop/steps (they still use the run under the coop on a regular basis when the weather is good, cold or falling seems to keep them inside). We think it is a matter of familiarity and shortly they will venture outside given the chance.

When I started my chicken venture I had decided that I would not free range. I think I am becoming more comfortable with the possibility of supervised free range once the snow is gone. This will depend, to an extent, on the behaviour of the cockerel we decide to keep. Two of the males are displaying tendencies to "supervise" and manage the others in the flock; I am hoping they will become typical and keep eyes peeled for critters that might intrude.

We shall see.