chicken socks

I would if I could, but I'm not the knittin' type.  So instead, I put some straw, leaves, pine bedding down on the snow and in the run, to protect those delicate little toes.


More ideas :


Winter can get pretty dull for your darling ladies.
While some folks have mentioned the cabbage-on-a-string treat, 
my gals turn up their beaks at cabbage.  
They prefer:

kale-on-a-string... see that little  S-hook?  
You can make 'em yourself:

Always good to have a handful of  S-hooks around,  to hang that kale on the side of the run,  

Apple-on-a-string has become a winter favorite of Lucy and Pigeon (make some little slices in the apple, and sink the twine into them, to hold it tight)...Hanging keeps it out of the dirt and poo.


You'll need your handy  S-hooks for these cups:

I use these soda-bottle-cups for extra water and food.   Easy to take away the dirty ones and put out clean ones.    Chickens need extra water in winter, and having it in several locations ensures that they stay hydrated.

Got some firewood lying about? 
Nothing's more exciting than a new log in the coop!

Molting birds especially benefit from a little extra protein:
Freeze-dried mealworms, cheese, black oil sunflower seeds, cooked oatmeal  (all healthy in moderation)


So treat your flock, and watch them adore you even more!


(Got a good idea to promote chicken-happiness?  Please share!)


Okay. Now back to writing  "Kids and Chickens"....coming soon-

WHITEOUT

Blizzard 2010

 

Marky squinted with joy -- he's a certified snow-dog.

Lil'White watched as I shoveled the path. But she knows all about snow and how it feels on her little pink toes.  Once the door was opened, she retreated to the dry leafy depths of the coop.

Pigeon and Daisy paused a moment to take in the wonder of it all.
In a burst of excitement, Daisy launched herself across the yard, 

and was stranded.

Fern seemed confused.

Pigeon went exploring for a bit.

But Lil'White and Lucy fluffed themselves up and mustered their patience. They know it's a long way til Spring.

cold

...continued from the previous post: THE COOP

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.....click for next entry: Lucy Limps