Getting the rescue bantams outside 4/1 and 4/2

 The sun was out today so I was able to get the rescue bantams out in the greenhouse again for some fresh air and sunshine. I brought out one of their brooder heater plates (that replicate a mother hen's warmth) in case they felt chilled but they loved pecking around and playing in the dirt. 

Back in the house they enjoyed a clean brooder cage as I now have two set up, their regular one and a larger one I call the play cage, for those days it's too chilly for them to go outside.

 There's still a lot of snow around outside but the ducks found a nice muddy puddle where some had melted to paddle around in a bit. 

 And a few more baby bantam photos, they're doing well though the smallest one still has some issues due to the poor care they received in the feed store.

 

Rescue Bangtams slowly improving

The bantams are still pretty sick but making progress. Pasty bottom is slowly resolving after many warm soaks of the area and applying olive oil or ointment. Two have quite bald spots at the back where the problem had been very bad.Apple cider vinegar is in the water. Getting them out in the warmth of the greenhouse for a dust bath has helped too. Also I wanted them to have that experience of the outdoors in case they don't have long lives. They are still quiet and worried but eating well and putting up with needed treatments. I know from their looks that two are silkies but no idea what the other two are.

 

Rescue Bantams

 We came across some bantam chickens in a dire situation at a feed store. We took home the ones which looked the worst. Two in particular seemed in such bad shape that they could not possibly make it another 24 hours. Severe pasty bottom, overcrowding and a dirty living space were their lot. We did what we could and now they are living the good chicken life with our flock but those first days were worrying and I didn't think the sickest two would make it. I thought I brought them home to be comfortable for their last hours but they are strong and survived! They were about 7- 10 days old when I found them.

Snowy, Icy Dog Walk and downed trees 3/18/23

The recent storm knocked down many trees and branches, much clean up to e done around the farmyard and gardens.

The lake is still l icy but the snow on top is melting.

 

Seed Starting, Coop Cleaning & Dog Walking

 Last weekend was COLD, this weekend feels like spring MIGHT eventually arrive. I'm glad for a better weekend because there was much to be done! 

It's time to start some seeds. I started some cold crops which we may be able to plant out in late April, and a few herbs and flowers that take a while. 

Finding Seed Starting things outside (in the little greenhouses) and in.

Plenty of seeds of all sorts in seed boxes.

One of three trays I planted out.

Next up was coop cleaning. This was overdue and was a huge chore. The used shavings made for many fun paths through the snow for the birds.

The chickens don't like walking on the snow, the used shavings paths make them very happy.

KiKat supervising

KitKat is always ready to help.

Can we get this whole big coop clean one weekend KitKat?

All clean, Turk the Turken approves.

Both weekend days we also got the dogs out for some walks. They may be getting old but they still love going to the lake.

Willow turns 11 on the 26th of this month.

Dartha tuns 11 the 26th of this month.

Comet, who still loves to roll in snow, turns 12 in late April.

A busy but good weekend. Which I'll end with a cozy cat picture.

Linnea