Spring at the Pond

It is February 8 but it feels like spring.  In fact, we might set a record high for this day.  The highest temperature ever recorded in Mulberry Grove was 57 degrees and we are suppose to get to 62 degrees.  Anyways, the warm weather caused a lot of energy to be expended by our poultry.

The ducks have taken up some very aggressive play.  I looked over at Abigail and Amelia while I was standing there filling their pond and Abigail was on Amelia's back pushing her head down.  This is very unusual behavior.  Usually they do it in the pond and it is Amelia who is pushing Abigail's head underwater and holding it there.  One of the neighbors says this is mating season and this is mating season behavior.  When I mentioned it to Mr. Jackson he suggested I get a drake.

The chickens on the other hand are not into destructive behavior at least at this time.  Ellen, our Black Jersey Giant, who is at the bottom of the chicken hierarchy has learned a behavior that keeps her from being harassed.  If Ellen feels cornered she runs at full tilt at whoever is bothering her and they automatically step out of the way.  And they should step out of the way, she is the biggest bird in the hen house even bigger than the ducks.

The other reason all is peaceful among the chickens is that I got them a new toy.  I hang a treat cake made of seeds and meal worms that I put in a metal case with holes in it.  It becomes a chicken's version of a tether ball game when they peck at it to get the food out.  Winifred in particular loves this game and it keeps her happily and innocently occupied.  I am ready though when she gets bored with this game.  Emily has installed a chicken swing in their yard.  All I have to do is train Winifred to use it.

Winifred playing with her new toy.

She will play with it for a long time.  

The chicken swing is in the background.
All I have to do is get Winifred to go on it.