Friday, July 23, 2010

Chicken Littles

Because I, apparently, don't have enough going on in my life right now, I ordered some new chicks in June.  They were hatched on June 14th, and promptly shoved into a box and Priority mailed to me.  A neighbor split the order with me and I ended up with 10 little birdies.


Here they are the day I received them.  They spent a couple weeks in the porch, then a few weeks in the garage.  Baby chicks need to be kept very warm until they start to get feathers.  Like, sauna warm.  We achieve that with a nice heat lamp aimed at the brooder.




Here they are in the big coop 5 weeks from the day I received them.  Isn't it crazy how fast they grow?  They're in the feather growing stage and look like a bunch of awkward teenagers.  So far, they're getting along well with the older hens and are really enjoying their new home. 

I cleaned out the coop for the first time in way too long in preparation for moving them out there and it turns out I have a renewed love for my flock.  Chickens are so fun to watch, they're like therapy that feeds you.  Speaking of which, these pullets(young female chickens) won't be old enough to lay until October, so, since the birds take a break in the winter, we might not get eggs from them until next spring.  Which is fine, because we're getting plenty from our few older hens right now.


And here is sweet Miss A holding what looks like a Barred Plymouth Rock.  She's a master chick chaser, which has come in handy on more than one occasion.  And, yes, she's wearing a sparkly gown and tennies.  That's my girl!

10 comments:

  1. Those eggs must taste amazing!

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  2. Chickens are fun! I've never had any personally, but enjoy visiting others. Those I know use them to eat leftovers and whatnot, do you do that? Or do you just strictly feed them grain? It's hilarious watching them fight over pieces of food... especially when one takes off with a huge piece of lettuce or something ;) Good luck with your flock, glad they're all getting along!

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  3. Oh. My. Gosh. I want to come visit and have Miss A teach Miss J how to chase chickens. That would be a riot!! :)

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  4. Baby turkeys are fun to watch, too. Way more fun at that age than full grown!

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  5. Oooh too fun! I am off to a poultry fair today to meet a variety of chickens and hopefully learn a few things. I am so glad you shared your photos:)

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  6. Oh they are so cute! And I love Abby's dress.... I love reading your blog. It always makes me smile.

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  7. That is crazy how fast they grew! A looks super cute. Miss you all.

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  8. The eggs taste great, and their beautiful orange yolks make everything you put them in look richer.

    I feed them chicken feed, but supplement with all of our cooking and table scraps. Also, they free range, so we don't go through much feed in the summer months.

    Hop on a plane, Shell!

    I'm so glad you read, Ell, it makes me smile. :)

    Miss you, too, Kacey. Bunches.

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  9. Love A's fashion pairing and poultry sense! Great pic!

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  10. Oh wow - I had no idea they are ready so quickly to start laying eggs. Gowns and tennies are the norm around here :) Have a great weekend!

    Sarah

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