Winter approaches, but we haven’t had any significant cold or any snow at all as yet. The days have shortened enough so I seldom see the chickens in the daylight during the week. We took down the second length of fence so the propane tank can be accessed, but moved Steve’s latest hawk guard “contrapulation” over so the chickens can have an extra playground.
Today Silver naps on top of it in the morning sun. They seem to have accepted the reduction in their space, but I have been seeing more aggression from the (molting, grumpy) older hens toward the pullets too. The pullets try to stay out of range, but they all look splendid so I’m not too worried about them.
Bucky has beautiful plumage, but has been left with an odd tuft of feathers on her neck which I assume was caused by her earlier pecking injuries. I hope she loses it with her molt.
They’re not laying yet with the short days, but they’re 23 weeks old so they could start any time. Holly especially has taken on a mature look.
The “mommies,” Flicka and Zen have recovered nicely from motherhood and their light molt and Flicka’s back to laying again.
Finn has beautiful new plumage too, and is looking especially well.
Here a molting Rachel “kisses” him. I don’t know what this behavior is. She approaches and nibbles him lightly around his beak and he just stands still with his head raised and lets her. She has done it since Finn’s first day here, but I’ve never seen from any of the other hens. It seems sweet--a grooming gesture if not an actual kiss!
