What to do for my lonely, traumatized pullet?

[twood]

I was the proud owner of two 6wk old pullets. They had just gotten to the point where they would go into their coop on their own at night. Then, a racoon struck. He ate one (Flo), and the other (Betty) survived. I have since reinforced the coop, and added extra locks, etc. so it is now safe, but Betty refuses to go in to the coop on her own (which I totally understand). The evenings have turned into a hunt for Betty routine. She is determined to sleep anywhere other than her coop. Every time I block off her old spot, she finds a new one. So... I scoop her up and lock her in every night. Is there something I can do to make her feel more safe in the coop? She loves worms... could I load up a tray with worms and put them in the coop for her?

She is also lonely. She hangs out by the sliding glass door and chills with the cats for most of the day... She has additionally gotten to be an escape artist... We had a gate that she has figured out how to get through and every time we block a route she finds a new one. I wonder if she's hunting for company, she and Flo were always content to stay within the boundaries of the backyard. Or is there such a thing as teenage years for a chicken?

At this point, my roommate and I have two new baby chicks, but they will be at least another couple of weeks before they can be outside. Will Betty's bad habits go away once she has company? Would having other chicks in the coop with her help? Is there a way to train a chicken to not leave a certain area? I also worry that she'll never be content with her coop... does anyone have any advice on how to help a lonely, traumatized pullet???

Any advice would be greatly appreciated!!!

Tana

 

[mom2chicksandpups]

Try to find another close to the same age & size and get her a new friend. Honestly, I have had the same problem and new friends make all the difference in the world with chickens!

Until you find another chick, try putting a stuffed animal in with her or a rolled up towel or washcloth. I did this with mine, after someone on this forum suggested it. It was the only thing that seemed to stop my chick from crying long enough to sleep. She slept with her head against the little stuffed animal we put in with her.

 

[twood]

Thank you! A stuffed animal is a great idea! Someone also suggested I add a mirror... I think I'll try both! We did try for older chicks, but they were sold by the time we got there... we just have to get through two more weeks and then she'll have two new friends to hang out with!

Tana