[Chrysalis]

Our two old ladies have finally left us for the nest box in the sky.

So now we're henless for a bit.  My poor old dears hadn't laid eggs properly for at least 15 months if not longer.  It feels really weird not to be going up the garden twice a day or more.

We shall get some more, but a proper period of mourning is called for.  We'd had them for four years and others for two before that, so it's a bit of a change to be without them.

Just wanted to tell someone who understands their claim on our emotions. Ta.

[Springlands]

Sorry to hear about Beryl and Brenda.    They really do get under our skins. You will miss seeing them do chickeny things.

I do hope that eventually you get some nice new ones - coming into the spring would be a good time to start again.

[barley]

awww bless

[tosca100]

Aww I do understand. We recently lost my favourite girl. She had twisted feet and was not a brilliant layer, but a sweetie who danced everywhere. Some just grab your heart.

We have had a lot of sudden and unexplained deaths in the counrty as a whole it seems. The chickens we have here have evolved to cope with hot, dry summers and cold, cold but short winters, but after a mild, dry winter and damp, hot and humid spring and summer things have gone awry.

[Sassy]

So sorry about your girls but I'm sure you gave them a great home and life and that is what matters

[New shoot]

Sorry to hear about your girls Chrysalis   

Spring would a great time to restock, once you have had time to get over this and all the breeders have their fresh new girls hatching and growing 

[wolfpup]

So sorry about your girls, its amazing how they manage to get right deep inside your heart I know.    I remember each and every one, all different, all with their own personalities, and each one sadly missed.

[Chrysalis]

Thanks everyone.  We have a good source of pekins close by, so will definitely get some banties in the Spring. Some big girls for eggs, too.  Lots of jet- washing and cleaning going on now on our two coops... 

[Debz]

They have a habit of worming their way into your affections don't they?  We've been without for 4 years now but my little boy keeps nagging me for some.  He's getting to an age where he can help look after them so I may have to give in and get him some.