Sitting with Chickens

In the last hour before sunset, the chickens have a ritual. They gather together as a flock, searching out the last tasty tidbits near the barn before heading to the coop and securing their favorite spots on the roost.

I like to take my Z-rest and sit near them (or at least try - they are a moving target usually), enjoying the last light of the day as I sit quietly and observe.

A few things I have learned from them:

1. Keep one eye on the ground for tasty tidbits, but always always keep one eye to the sky. You never know when that eagle will be back.

2. Always check out the Hoomans whenever they come out of the house - they are your best bet for getting tasty tidbits.

3. When you see something you want, don't be shy and don't hold back - grab it and run like hell or someone else will get to it first.

4. Stick with your wingman. Raven & Teeter (above) are great at this. They are always found together, even on the roost at night. 

5. Being the smallest does not mean being the lowest in the pecking order. Dixie, our smallest bird, a bantam Barred Rock, is the leader of the flock, with the top position on the roost and the loudest voice.

6. The only thing that should ever ruffle your feathers is a tail wind. All the rest is probably not worth worrying about.

Cheers -