We had a bit of snow last night in Vermont. Our first bona fide snow fall of the season so far. There has been much complaining about the weather in these parts. Not enough snow, too much rain, oddly warm temperatures, it doesn't feel like winter etc. Well, let me introduce you to one chicken who would much rather see things the way they were just a few days ago, with no snow, warm breezes and misty rain. Meet Chicken Chicken.
She was the first one out of the coop this morning when I went to open up but she wasn't so sure about all the white stuff. As you can see, I brushed off the start of the ramp to ease her out but she wasn't having it.
Then she started holding up the line which can get ugly. Usually that leads to lots of pushing, shoving, squawking and sometimes even a peck on the derriere.Today, her coop mates were a little more patient with her because none of these hens have been through a winter yet. The deeper snow seemed baffling to them. So, they were willing to let her be 'the first' this time.
Until one Rooster, who shall remain nameless, decided it was time to quit pussy footing around. He's never seen snow like this before either but he showed no fear. Come to think of it, I may have witnessed the greatest demonstration of Chicken Machismo of all time.
He just jumped right out. No ramp walk, nothing. Chicken feet first right into the snow! Then there appeared to be some taunting or maybe he was just showing them that the snow was only web feet deep.
But Chicken Chicken (and all her friends) still weren't having it.
So back into the coop they went (and stayed) for most of the day. The Rooster stayed out all day, crowing his crow and strutting his stuff in about a 10 foot area. He stomped the snow down just enough to entice a few bold hens out of the coop for a bit. Honestly, I just think he was trying to be a gentleman and that stomping the snow down for the ladies was his plan all along. You know, so they could have a nice afternoon out in the snow together. I mean c'mon, doesn't he look like a gentleman to you? I think Chicken Chicken should give it another try.
