Tuesday, October 12, 2010

Chickens have feelings too…

DSCF0623 This morning after breakfast, I heard an awful commotion outside.  I couldn’t decide if a cat was making a ruckus or the dogs next yard were after something or if the chickens were having troubles.  So, I went out to investigate.  They were all there, much to my relief and they ran to the fence, so happy to see me.  I had been a little worried about them because the last few nights, I’ve heard the howls of coyotes.  Luckily, during that time, Charlie was silent.  But he was in fine voice this morning.

At any rate, I went into the shed to the food, which we keep in a big plastic trash barrel.  Before I could open it, Spot flew/jumped up onto the lid (which comes about to my waist).  Then, she did the most amazing thing---she leans into me.  I put my arm around her and she let me really pet her.  I was stunned that she was being so affectionate!  She stayed there for several minutes until I stepped out of the shed, then she followed me, chirping all the way like she does.  Perhaps a predator had been in their yard earlier.  We get skunks and enormous moles/ground hogs, not to mention snakes from time to time.  Who knows?!  However, it was quite an experience!  We think that only 2 of the girls are laying eggs now---don’t know if Spot is one of them.  I’ve seen the “hungry” one sitting in a nest in the shed, but haven’t disturbed her.  Don’t think the Orpingtons DSCF0499_1 (the big buff colored girls) are laying yet.  Will get more up-to-date pics soon!

5 comments:

Joe said...

I'm so glad that no tragedy greeted you when you went to see what was going on. Isn't it amazing how affectionate animals can be? I never cease to love such moments. We have many chickens and even a turkey next door to where we're staying here in Ghana...makes me feel that I have a somewhat similar situation to you!

Joe said...

I'm so glad that no tragedy greeted you when you went to see what was going on. Isn't it amazing how affectionate animals can be? I never cease to love such moments. We have many chickens and even a turkey next door to where we're staying here in Ghana...makes me feel that I have a somewhat similar situation to you!

Ramblingon said...

Those girls are beautiful! And you answered my question about Spot. To know the love of an animal is a sign you really have lived the right life. :-)

Unknown said...

I've been reading a lot lately about raising chickens in Mother Earth News. I'd like to give it a shot but there are just too many cats roaming loose and they're attracting coyotes. We've seen several coyotes in broad daylight lately, enough in fact that one of us always takes a gun and goes out with Sam at night. He'd probably want to play with them and wouldn't be much of a match against a pack.

GreatGranny said...

I somehow missed this post. I love reading about Charlie and his Angels. This is a feel good post, sweet Spot, so precious.