Hello!!

[Artychik]

They still beautiful!! I was apprehensive about getting them, stepping into the unknown I suppose. But Im so glad Ive got them. I feel like Ive COME HOME!! That sounds mad, I know. I cant look at them without smiling. They dont go much on the hail today (neither do I) but George still allowed me a cuddle. No eggs yet but we wait with anticipation!! Still no sign of grit being eaten. Should I give them the oyster shell yet or wait till they egging? Thats not really the right word, is it??!!

[Mother Hen]

Hi Artychik, all sounds good to me. Just be careful not to over fuss it's all new to them and what seems like an affectionate cuddle can be a bit stressful for them, they sound very happy though.
They will only take the grit as and when they need it, and it does not matter that it gets wet.
If they are eating well, then that's a good sign, as we said on the course people do not realise how important the protein level, that they get from the layers mash is, especially in these early crucial stages, when their little bodies are trying to prepare for laying to start. Keep up the good work.

[Artychik]

Thanx Mother Hen, Ill take that on board. They actually come up to me now and I find them hard to resist!! I dont handle them for long and they seem happy to be cuddled, they dont try to get down, but Ill try to resist more. What about the oyster shell?

[Mother Hen]

These little birds are so lovely they give so much enjoyment with the correct care, it makes our lives so easy to.
It still gives us a lot pleasure to think we have set someone on their poultry keeping, and they are having such fun.
I spend a lot of time on other forums and it dismays me, how many problems people seem to encounter.

[Mother Hen]

They will not need oyster shell at the moment, but if you've got another little container then you could offer it they will take it if they want to.

[Artychik]

Its good to know youre there, makes it easier for us beginners!!

[Mother Hen]

You now know why they call me mother hen! I'm always there clucking around and making sure all my chicks are happy and looked after, offering a cosy wing until you feel you can go it more alone but then still there as an experienced ear if ever you feel 'mother hen' can help, even if the odd peck to keep you in line seems a bit harsh, you know its only for your own good!! and there is something very comforting to know your not out there on your own.
I'm as excited as you are when that first egg arrives!!

[Artychik]

Hi Mother hen
Looks a bit cold again, just wondering if there has been any reports of eggs yet from my batch of girls? One of our girls combs is quit red, I know this is a sign, fingers crossed. One has a little runny stool, and they seem to be taking it in turns sitting down on the grass, it's a hard life, any feed-back appreciated.

[Mother Hen]

No eggs here yet, will be about a week to 10 days give or take, Robert says the weather will hold them back a bit.
We must have a picture on here when it happens so don't eat it until you get a picture!!
Other than that is what you had imagined?

[Artychik]

yes its everything I imagined and more!! Its great when all the family go out and help clean up etc. I thought it would all be down to me, but hubby and the boys all love it. We all are awaiting the eggs and getting eggcited!! Sorry, couldnt resist that!! Hopefully will put the girls on hard standing once the hemcore is here and it`ll be better for them. cluck cluck!!!