When is killing a healthy hen the right thing to do?

[rosemarythyme]

So great to see the update with Stinky enjoying her time out with her new flock!

 

[bobbi-j]

I'm super glad this hen found a home!

But would like to respond to the headline question... When is killing a healthy hen the right thing to do?

My honest answer is anytime you are ready to do so humanely! When it comes to our flocks we have that right and sometimes responsibility. Hens are NOT inedible, just a little smaller like my Silkies were... who dressed perfectly well for the table. Some people process their extra hens same as cockerels EVERY year. For ME, it is most often more economical to sell the extra females. We all have reasons we do what we do. While there is a ton of support here, I also sense plenty of judgement, which I feel is in large part due to misunderstanding. I'm not sure why so many people are against killing a healthy hen but fine to let previously *healthy* dead animals grace our tables daily as long as someone else did the killing and they didn't have to look it in the eyes.

Yes, I understand taking the life of a pet (or thinking about eating) is more difficult (especially in first world countries) and that it should not always be our suggestion, we should consider the poster and THEIR concerns.

Please note this isn't directed at anyone specific and just something I wanted to put out there. I'm so grateful for the many different thoughts and perspectives shared by our community here! (even the ones I disagree with) It has really opened my mind and made me a much more whole and rounded person, which translates to so many areas in life.

 

[divediva]

Update: I've been told that she is doing great and fully Incorporated into the flock. I'm hoping to get photos later this week.

 

[divediva]

That's awesome news

 

[Chickengene]

When you want to fix a special supper for a loved one.
Or the pastor is coming for dinner.

 

[Ms Clucky]

Put her on Craig's list or Facebook. They have something similar to this site. Hope you find someone who will take her.

 

[Gargoyle]

Stinky is doing great. She's well integrated into a flock of two dozen, hens, new chicks, and one rooster. I'm told pecking order sorted out very quickly without drama, and Stinky and the roo are very fond of each other.

Stinky is the one with the black feather streak in her tail.

 

[Gargoyle]