This morning I took the chicks outside for a little exercise.
At first they just stood around. Do you see why I have concerns about the darker one, Mrs. Bucket, although it does look like she may be getting the beginnings of an apron, that is some pretty impressive tail bling. She also tends to demonstrate aggressive behavior by flapping her wings at (now) littler Josephine. Anyone feel like chiming in on Mrs. Bucket’s sex? (Do I really have a Mr. Bucket?)
Josephine, on the other hand, horizontal and tucked in low, is pure female.
Instinct is a powerful force. After just a few minutes in the sun, Josephine took her first dirt bath.
And then Mrs. Bucket joined in. I mean, seriously, how did they know to do that without having someone to teach them first?
But then a bird flew overhead, it’s shadow ominously passing o’re the chicks, who quickly scrambled to the safety of the under-chair of the great mama hen.
Instinct is a powerful force, indeed.
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Wendy Thomas writes about the lessons learned while raising children and chickens in New Hampshire. Contact her at [email protected]
Also, join me on Facebook to find out more about the flock (children and chickens) and see some pretty funny chicken jokes, photos of tiny houses, and even a recipe or two.
