I really think a lot about chickens-love seeing their antics in farmyards (and heard they can really deter ticks). Love the thought of fresh eggs-- and am certain my chicken's egg colors would top Martha's any day.
But I also think way too much it seems to bring any to the farm. If they are free range, will it bring unwanted predators & more worries then this little old heart can handle. What about the free range neighbor dogs that have harassed our goats? If I contain them to a pen, will that also bring unwanted egg eaters (talking snakes here)? How ever would I keep them warm & happy in the winter? - this from the gal that sets up playscapes for barn cats when the snow flies.
So each time my friend, Jani, offers up the chicks she has hatched with her kiddos......I reluctantly say "no thanks". I even have a school in Eau Claire that has promised to just leave their chickens at my door in a "drive by" like chicken drop. For now, I am gathering my own little coop of tin feathered friends--their armor will fend off all my worries.
7 comments:
I totally understand your concerns! I'd be the same, exact way.
Oh, I love my wee flock. I had one hawk attack about three years ago. So far they have managed to avoid the predators, even the pair of fox living in the woods right behind the coop. However, I do think that having the llamas in the same area with them is what has protected them. Some days I leave them in their run (these are the days they get ramen noodles (sans the flavor(?) packet) and in return I usually get more eggs than expected :O} ) and some days they get to run. Alisdair will alert me if anyone drives up or if there is some sort of danger....just before he runs and hides in the shed...such a Barney Fife of the cockeral world! My girls are getting old and egg production is way down but they won't end up in the stew pot. They will live out their lives on the farm of an old soft-hearted woman.
I haven't had any snakes yet but I don't just reach into the nesting boxes willy-nilly either since I've had to do battle again with a snake in a robin's nest. This time it was a rat snake which are known egg-eaters but the antics and joys outweigh the anxiety.
I'love chickens too, but living out in the country is all that it's cracked up to be... coyotes lurking into are back yd enough..why give them another reason... this is from the gal who took in a stray barn cat, then ran a heating pad for him all winter.. finally had to stop when the possum decided it was a warm and cosy spot to sleep..I think chickens arent for the faint of heart..
Such dear hearts you are ..... I do believe kindness shown to the least of us is the true measure of a person.
Now, with regard to chickens - still thinking...
Kari
OOOOHHHH! So maybe, just maybe, one of these springs the answer to "Kari, will you take my chickies?" will be "Yes!" Can't wait for that day!
Kari! Nothing better than the real thing! Just research and take proper precautions. We have them and have learned by trial and error. And our area is more remote and wooded than yours. I have some excellent books on chickens if you ever want to borrow them. I can drop them off on my way to weavers or you can get them when your in Hixton one day.
I also have first hand experience I could share with you. And CHICKENS! All sizes, colors, male or female. Start out with a pullet or older bird to get in the groove. I have some beautiful roosters you can have to get this going.
Call me if you want to chat. Good luck! Dawn
715-533-2788
Jani, Jani, Jani............you see, metal chickens only need to be tethered don when the wind blows....(smile)
Dawn-so kind, your phone number, a rooster........you just can't even begin to know how this thought really does terrify me.
I think metal hens/roosters will suffice for now.
Kari
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