My eco solution to rat problems

[Merryn]

I've discovered a curious thing!

 

Henna is top lady and aggressively tries to push Penna out of the way when I give them their morning tiny bowlful of crushed eggshell, bokashi and diatom mixed with oats and warm water to bind it all. (I've found this to be the best way to make sure they are getting these additives).

If I put my hand against Henna and gently keep her off Penna it means they get a fair share. After a bit I let go. H's urge to push P away seems to have gone and they finish the bowl happily together.

Has anyone else tried this?

 

Of course it starts all over again each morning!

[Lesley-Jean]

That's quite normal Merryn. Top hen must make sure to assert her self and get first pick of the food.

[Merryn]

Yes, but my point is that I can make Henna forget she's top girl for a bit. As long as I've kept my hand against her for about 15 - 30 secs, her urge to push Penna away seems to go after I take my hand away.

[The Dogmother]

I guess that by then she's just gagging for her porridge and doesn't care any more

[Mel (& Paul)]

I'm like that with gin and tonic.............

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I wonder with your chooks it because they see you as top dog (or top of the pecking order!)

[Lesley-Jean]

Yes you're right girls. I think once they get eating the food that takes over and once they find they can continue eating without pushing they are OK. I do that with my two sometimes and even hold top chook away from the food for a while so that she learns that pushing gets her no where. It doesn't work of cause, she's never learnt the lesson