The moon was bright and waning almost half full through the branches of the paper birch. I saw her even before the motion light on the barn flashed on.
One hen sitting under the chicken coop instead of inside it.
Not again I sighed.
Last year the hens kept me guessing by not going in the coop at night. There was nothing consistent about it. Sometimes they’d all be in, but more likely one or two would be outside the coop when I went to close it up at night.
I made them a ramp, using wood from the basement thinking White Hen was too old to jump onto the roost outside the door. Maybe the others stayed out with her to protect her. Or maybe one hen was keeping the others out for some reason.
But they didn’t use it. I’d watch them jump right past it. It was more of a hinderance than help.
Finally I discovered that the roosting bar was wobbly with ware, so I sured it up with a few washers. After that all the hens were in the roost every night.
I can imagine the dismay of a hen jumping up on a roosting bar that wasn’t secure. Like a rotting tree branch, ready to fall when landed on.
Now not only was the roosting bar wobbling again, but it also had a big crack running the length of it.
I had a back up though.
Our trees are always dropping branches, and I’d put one aside that was the right length and thickness of the old roosting bar months ago.
Yesterday I removed the old bar and replaced it with the branch. It was easy enough to do, just couple of screws and some washers.
Last night when I went to close up the chicken coop all three hens were inside, snuggled up together.
Bravo, Maria! You are so resourceful!
All the hens were in the coop this evening again Val, But it’s still a touch rocky. I was thinking a small flat piece of leather more soft plastic might cushion the roost even more. I’ll try it.
Sounds like a plan!
:)
You are so handy. I used to be like that now my hands don’t want to work. even my sewing is difficult, and I miss it. always keep your hands warm or you will wind up with arthritis too. Bless you.
I’ve heard that from a few people Uta, about their hands not working like they used to. I do think about it, becuase like you, being able to use my hands not only for my work and for everyday things, but it seems to me when I work with my hands, they help balance me. I will take you good advice. Thank you.