By Wednesday, the hens were not hesitating at the door of wagon, they were rushing out with enthusiasm to the feeders and waterer. They had learned that that green stuff they were walking around on was edible and tasty. When Jenifer and I went to shut them up, there were only about 6 that needed guidance.The 1/4 inch of rain on Monday helped with the chickens respect for the electrified fence. Because the pullets are so light weight and insulated by the thick rye grass, they are not “grounded” like a cow or pig would be, the grass acts as an insulator. The rain made them more “conductive” and they got shocked when they touched the netting. I guess that might seem cruel, but we have to control where the chickens go. We know what a couple hundred free will chickens can to a garden. The netting not only keeps the chickens in, it keeps neighbor dogs, foxes, coons, possums, coyotes, and skunks out.
They are learning to forage. Their pasture area consists of 3 different environments, the thick rye grass, the defining line where it turns to pure clover, and a mulched and decaying bed of okra stalks. The chickens really like the clover and straw mulch. Last June, CSA work share member Joe and volunteer Erin accused me of treating them like convicts as they mulched the okra. Little did they know how beneficial the long-term affect of their work that day would be. Me either…
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Great update on the hennies – and wonderful set up. Glad they got the hang of being outside. When I open our hen house door its like a chicken cannon is being fired – they come flying out as fast as they can! Our girls hate the snow and we are still buried. Finding ways to keep chickens entertained is a job I never expected to have.
