Roosters got kicked out of our barn for injuring the hens and had been running amok for the past few months. We saw them hanging with a group of wild turkeys last week and they were heading down the driveway towards the house on Monday (a quarter mile from the barn). They had also started following me into the big pasture and that was a big mistake. We found them there this morning, our livestock guardian dogs had gotten them. Yes, chickens can fly. Maybe they didn’t see the dogs coming? Did the dogs do something bad? No, believe it or not large predatory birds can kill young livestock. Our neighbors lost a few baby goats this Spring to predatory birds. I guess Milos and FiFi don’t know the difference between chickens and chicken hawks. On the upside, my husband doesn’t have to build them their own shelter for the winter. On the downside, they made me laugh every day. And Jenna loved bringing them to me. Maybe we’ll get a few more next Spring.
A Shame
14 Sep 2011 4 Comments
Missing Willow Farm 
Sep 14, 2011 @ 12:05:19
Ahh, that’s very sad. Such pretty birds. On the bright side, guess it shows how well the dogs are looking after things. Our IG just cornered a bunny yesterday that got into our fence. Thankfully, the bunny got away through the chain link in time, but it was a tight squeeze. Just hoping it didn’t hurt itself getting out. Can’t scold the dog for protecting our house from intruders (no matter how small). It’s been so dry here, the rabbits are running low on green stuff to eat. Otherwise, they wouldn’t come so close.
Still excited to use the feathers your sent. They’re ready to go, just have to find some time.
Mieljolie
Sep 14, 2011 @ 13:00:52
Yep, there’s no question re: our guardians. They know and do their job. If we get more roosters, we’ll figure out how to clip wing feathers so they have to stay close to their home.
Sep 14, 2011 @ 14:39:50
Oh! We were just talking about how they were so funny. I’m sorry, Connie. I hope you get a couple more next year.
It is at least reassuring to know your guardians are good protectors.
Sep 14, 2011 @ 19:01:25
Darnit when Nature bats last, eh?