[andreadon]

 
Rita (the remaining ex-batt) died on Sunday night.

She wasn't ill, I don't think - the Vet thought she was fine. She was just old and worn out.

Adam went to get them all up on Monday morning and she was there in the nest box, with her head lolling over the side.

The cheeky mare always tries it on to sleep in the nestbox and she normally gets turfed out, but on Sunday evening, Adam decided just to leave her there for a change (his words were he couldn't be **** to pick her out and thought it wouldn't harm her for one night)

So she died in peace and comfort and decadence. 

There are 3 left now - the two newbies (who might actually be able to eat now - Rita used  to bully them mercilessly!) Pamela and Tina, and Erica, the last of the orginals.

and with all her new feathers, too.

[andreadon]

[andreadon]

[tesni]

those photos show what a marvellous second life she had with you, give yourself a huge pat on the back for making her happy & well
RIP, but after a lovely life 

[Fisherman]

You should be so proud. Every credit to you.

[bantam novice]

What lovely pics.  She obviously had a lovely life with you.  RIP

[Carla]

She looked in beautiful condition, well done you for bringing her to such a happy life. Draw solace from remembering the life she had before you took her home, she must have been soooo happy to have you xxx

[NormandyMary]

Im so sorry for your loss. The before and after pictures are amazing. Her last days were her happiest and that's what counts. Well done you!!!

[andreadon]

thank you, all.

she was a total mentalist - she used to squawk with a huge growl, almost - a bit like a whisky voice, but very squawky! 

and she was rather vicious to the newbies, but she was paranoid they would take her place in the pecking order.

however, she was a very funny hen, and spent a lot of time wanting cuddles - she used to just sit on our laps for hours, and enjoy being massaged at the feather ends (to promote new growth)

oh, yse, and when she was newly out of prison, she used to dustbathe at the edge of  teh gravel!    like she knew what she was supposed to be doing, but not how to do it! 

[alancane]

She looked in great condition and the comfort of a nest box as well, she would have been a very happy lady indeed.