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

 

[rancher hicks]

Personally I would get a cage big enough and keep her inside with me until she has friends. It makes me sad to think of her all alone. Maybe one of those cat cages with the shelves. Or buy some older chickens to keep her company. I hate 'coons.

I also wonder how many people leave their pop hole open at night? Not that you did this, I just wonder.

 

[*proud*new*momma*]

I've heard from other ppl on here that if you have a situation like yours, had two chicks but lost one, the remaining chick does get lonely. They suggested that u put a little mirrior or stuffed animal in her coop or just get a new chick.

In my experience, when I got my first chick, he seemed lonely and always would chirp really loud. Then I thought that I should get another chick. I eventually did and I've had no problem since.

Good Luck

 

[lux_interior]

How awful! I am very sorry for your loss! We have raccoons here too, so I lock my ladies up in their coop every night. Having just one does seem awfully lonely, I feel bad for her. I would DEFINITELY get her a friend

Where are you located? If it's anywhere near me, I currently have 14 chickens, all hens, and am trying to unload at least a couple... I have 5 girls outside who are about 6 weeks also, and 9 baby chicks inside. I'm sure one of my girls outside would love to befriend your lonely hen