Celia Hart's blog about what's going on in and around her studio.
Art, printmaking, inspirations, gardening, vegetables, hens, landscapes, wild flowers, East Anglia, adventure, travel.

Monday 29 October 2012

Long overdue flock management

I knew what had to be done . . . but even so it wasn't easy or pleasant to do.

After losing two hens, the flock was down to four hens and three cockerels. It was time to stop agonising and organise.

So, this evening the deed was done; now the sole remaining senior under-gardener, Phoebe, and the Spice Girls (Saffron, Nutmeg and Ginger) can settle down with their head-boy, Cheep.

One day I'd like to add three new pullets, but I think that I'll leave that plan for the new year.

Celia x

10 comments:

  1. It does have to be done...*sigh*. What breed are you thinking of adding?

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    1. I think I'll go for some more Marans hybrids - they lay lovely big dark brown eggs.

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  2. Celia, I know that the new year's pullets will be swell. Are you already considering names>

    Another question, what if even after "one" organizes, there is still a bit of lingering agonizing? Perhaps more organizing is called for?

    xo

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    Replies
    1. Well, you never can tell! If Cheep becomes too agressive he will have to 'go'. But right now I'm pleased to back in control of the flock.
      Of course you can't name hens until you have met them! But that may be sooner than later... ;-)

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  3. Sad, but very necessary and they had lovely lives. Hope the new head boy enjoys his role :-)

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    1. Cheep is settling into his new role after a few days being very shy and confused.

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  4. Poule au Pot on the menu or couldn't you bring yourselves to do it?

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    1. I wouldn't waste good meat! Two packs of joints for the stock pot... and some hearty peasant soup ;-)

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  5. I sympathise! We had to cull two cockerels a few weeks ago (when I say we I mean Ian of course). It's always sad but sometimes it just has to be done. So far the one we have left is not proving much of a supervisor for his flock, more of a wimp really! Perhaps he will grow into his duties.

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    1. A tough call isn't it?! In the end I asked a very kind neighbour to assist me. I handled them until seconds before the end and the deed was swift and efficiently done. Cheep is a bit tentative, but I'm relieved that I can once more handle all of my flock without fear of being attacked! I suppose this is what's called good husbandry.

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