Our New Bantam Hens

We had a lovely day today and went to The Smallholders Fair at Ardingly Sussex. It was the first day out we have had since my Mum has been in hospital in fact the first out at all really even for a few hours. I took lots of photos of the day but for now as I have just got back from spending the evening at the hospital I thought I would share the photos of our new Pekin Bantam hens. They are just 10 weeks old so still very small but are just the cutest little things.

One is a Millefleur, one a lavender and the last one I think they said was Lemon. I'll share the other photos soon

What To Do About The Lack Of Eggs

   For years we have had a constant supply of eggs. With lots of ducks, hens and quail a lunchtime omlette is quite a routine for us. For the first time the fridge is empty of eggs. After we had to rehome the runner ducks our egg laying birds have diminished. we only have Scoot the duck and her egg laying season has just come to an end, Felicity the rescue battery hen who we have had for over three years and hasn't laid an egg since last year and Molly the Bantam who has decided to go broody. I haven't bought eggs for over ten years and I really can't bring myself to start. I have to decide what plan of action to take. I fancy some new big hens but we are worried they may pick on little Molly. We could buy a few more bantams. The trouble is young bantams probably won't lay until next year The other day we went to our local farm to buy some chicken food and had a look at the young pullets they have for sale. They certainly are very pretty.

    I have to make a decision soon before the lack of protein in my vegetarian diet makes me ill! Oh dear I'm so indecisive. I will make the decision in the next week and share the photos of our new additions.

Imogen Passes By

     Well storm Imogen has gone leaving a broken front fence in it's wake which we will have to replace soon. A couple of plastic roof panels have also blown off the duck and hen runs and lie broken on the ground. Other than that we can't complain really as I'm sure lots of people will have suffered much worse damage.
     It's been a lovely bright day today. Lots of sunshine and pancakes for tea with the family. Who could want for more. I even found an hour in between catching up with work to potter about with the hens who were really enjoying the sunshine.

Molly The Pekin Bantam 

Felicity the rescue hen enjoying the suns rays. What a cheeky little face! She doesn't seem bothered by the broken roof panels lying on the ground next to their run. 

I was thrilled to see the beginnings of blossom on our plum tree. This bodes well for a really good fruit yield this year hopefully to sell some as well as enjoy. What a beautiful blue sky. I hope everyone manages to enjoy some bright sunshine this week.