The Accidental Smallholder Forum

Livestock => Poultry & Waterfowl => Topic started by: mab on June 20, 2010, 11:13:52 pm

Title: I now have hens!!
Post by: mab on June 20, 2010, 11:13:52 pm

Hi all,

Thought I'd post some good news:-

I've just today collected my first (four) hens from littlehenrescue.

All well so far - they're already eating the grass and corn mix, though I think I still need to give layers pellets/mash if I want eggs correct?

I hope I can keep them safe from the foxes - I've never seen or heard foxes here, but then there weren't any hens to attract 'em 'til now.

Wonder how long I'll have to wait for my first eggs?....  :yum:

mab

Title: Re: I now have hens!!
Post by: doganjo on June 21, 2010, 01:00:28 am

If tehy are ex-batts you'll probably have eggs tomorrow morning!  Make sure their outside run is fences high enough to deter the fox if you are away form home, otherwise put them in an enclosed area till you return, and the same overnight.
Layers pellets are high in elements that aid egg production.

Title: Re: I now have hens!!
Post by: mab on June 21, 2010, 06:10:33 pm

You were right! - two eggs so far.  :)

Umm.. I was hoping they'd be OK free-ranging during the day. Maybe if a add some lines to the (electric) sheep fence?

I've got them in a temporary run at the mo' whilst they settle in, but i didn't want to build a permanent run as that would fence out the sheep.

mab