- May 27, 2011
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Last night, some idiot (Me) forgot to lock the hens in for the night. This morning we found that something, most likely a coon, went into the coop, dragged two hens out, and brutally murdered them. The rest of the flock (four) were very skittish and did not want to go outside into the yard in the morning. After the scene of the crime was cleaned up, they finally did go out, but at dark tonight, they would not go back in the coop. It looked as if they had not been in the coop to eat or drink all day. The wife and I had to round them up and throw them into the coop for the night. This time I remembered to lock the door. They settled down for the night after a time. I think that one of the murdered hens was the leader of the flock. I am planning to leave them in the coop for a day or two to help them realize that it is a safe place for them, so long as the idiot locks them in for the night.
I assume they will get over their fear in a few days, but will a new leader emerge. One of them has to tell the others it is time for bed. Also, should I try to replace the recently deceased, or should I wait a few months.
I assume they will get over their fear in a few days, but will a new leader emerge. One of them has to tell the others it is time for bed. Also, should I try to replace the recently deceased, or should I wait a few months.