The Poultry Keeper

dandelion · Joined: 06 Jul 2005 Posts: 17 Location: WARWICKSHIRE

Sorry everyone,but i require more advice (do i feel stupid or what?)my rhodey hen is now on her own (penny the blackrock r.i.p)am i right to think that hen's must be kept in a group,not singley.She is crowing constantly and won't leave my side,she is also very reluctant to go in her coup at night,which is very unusual as she alway's goe's in at dusk unaided.Thanks again,Anita Smile

debcat · Posted: Thu Mar 16, 2006 2:38 pm Post subject:

she will be missing penny
they are flock birds, is there anywhere near you where you could get another 1 or 2 from to keep her company?

dandelion · Joined: 06 Jul 2005 Posts: 17 Location: WARWICKSHIRE

Deb's i've spoken to Rich (poultry poof's) he's just down the road from me,He did have some rhodey's for sale but think's they may be sold.He has said that if they are still with him at the weekend,then we can sort something out.Other than this i'm stuck.Finger's crossed,we might have the rhodey's saturday.If not how long would she be ok on her own? Anita

debcat · Posted: Thu Mar 16, 2006 3:02 pm Post subject:

if you can spend lots of time with her that would help.
one trick with single chicks is to put a mirror in the pen and a teddy - don't know if it would work with a grown hen, but might be worth trying
Hope you get the rhodies Very Happy

Bhindi · Posted: Thu Mar 16, 2006 4:32 pm Post subject:

I was going to suggest a mirror too, and as much human company as poss... My Bhindi, is in the house on her own when Im at work, but the radio is on and the cats mill around which I suppose help a little. Also if she is intrested in the slow eating foods like raw carrots apples, cabbage etc, they too could help take her mind of things while your search for her companions.

summayah · Joined: 14 Apr 2005 Posts: 4289 Location: luton

I hope you manage to sort out a companion or two for your lonely girl. I would get another couple if I were you, it's always preferable to have 3 or more, for just such a situation as you have had.
Good luck and keep us informed