Monday, November 16, 2015

Free Chickens!

My brother-in-law called me several weeks ago and asked me if I wanted a free male duck that someone wanted to get rid of. I have really no use for a male duck but I had an empty pen so figured I would take it anyway and give it a good home. But the pen needed cleaning so we decided he would bring it that weekend....and then it rained almost every day for 3 weeks. During that time the offer changed from one duck to 3 ducks, to 3 ducks and a couple chickens and then changed to just chickens.  He brought me 8 chickens yesterday. I did not even get to see them except in the dark on their perch because I had to work yesterday but I have been out checking on them this morning. It looks like I have 2 leghorn hens, 4 cochin that I think are two roosters and two hens, and two little brown bantams that I have no idea what are.
I noticed right off that one of the little brown bantams was not as active as the others and was a little puffed up which is a sign of sickness. When she turned around I saw one of her eyes was completely infected and swollen shut. I didn't even know if she had an eye anymore but got some Tetracycline and put it in their water. I would rather not medicate them all but don't have a separate cage ready for her so for today it went in their water. She happened to really like that water and came over and drank quite a bit. Maybe 10-15 minutes later the eye popped open and I can see that the eyeball is still alright. Several days on the Tetracycline will hopefully clear up that infection completely.
Since I didn't know what I was really getting, I am quite pleased that these are all young chickens. I believe they will be laying in just a few weeks.
I am going to make them some nest boxes out of the old quail cages and they will be all set.




8 comments:

  1. I can sense your enthusiasm returning, Becky. You have been a bit quiet recently, but these chickens will probably re-inspire you.

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    1. Not a lot going on and people get tired of seeing what I have knit or crocheted :)

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  2. How wonderful to get some nice young chickens for free! I used to have a lovely small pen with chickens, but I had to get rid of them due to zoning rules. I love the happy little sounds they make. I even had one that followed me all around the yard. I hope you get to enjoy them and their fresh eggs!

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    1. Well, I have plenty of chickens already and am selling the extra eggs when I can but it is nice to get these for free. definitely!

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  3. Free is good! Do you quarantine them for a bit before you introduce them to the flock?

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  4. Hi Becky, good score on the chickens. I like the things you knit. Only, I sure do miss those delicious meals and baking. 8-)

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