When we first got chickens two years ago we had only 8 hens. A close knit group of spoiled chickens who each had their very own name and rank in the pecking order. We were careful to make sure each had their share of leftover peaches and treats. But it didn't take us very long to realize that while naming chickens is quaint and fun and has it's purpose in a flock of 8, there would be no way to name 60 chickens let alone keep track of who's who or make sure everyone was getting their 'fair share'. But there is always one in the bunch. A hen with so much personality you can't help but wonder if they are more 'human' than 'animal'. Here is our lady with zazz...
She stalks our house. Even after reinforcing the fence this weekend which is successfully containing all of the ladies and gentlemen in a generous area she finds a way out and she's keeping it a secret. You will be certain to find her somewhere near a door or watching us through the windows where she can get up high enough to see us. She knows there is a world out there beyond the coop and she is committed to finding out what it is all about.
I find myself shooing her away each time I enter and leave the house. She stays at my heals when I move around outside and pays very close attention.
Here she is just this morning running the perimeter searching for a way in or a way to whatever it is she thinks she needs to discover. Well, yesterday afternoon I went out to take out some trash and she made her move.
I came in to find her exploring our kitchen in the most methodical and relaxed way a chicken who finds herself in an enclosed, unknown area can. It was pretty amazing. She wasn't phased in the slightest by my presence, the children squealing with delight that there was a chicken in the house or even the cats! I closed some doors to keep her in the kitchen while I ran to get my camera (you're welcome) and watched for a while while she made her way to each corner pecking and prodding and surprisingly not pooping. She is quite civilized I tell you!
If there were some way I could train her to sort through that mail there and put stamps on bills she'd have the fluffiest nest box anywhere she wants in the house! Unfortunately as tempted as I was to leave her be, I couldn't let her stay in the house very long, she is a chicken after all!
