New hens not going into Eglu Go Up

[Daphne]

BC - don't fret unduly. You've analysed this well and you know where things started to go wrong. You won't buy in a rush of excitement again and you'll quarantine for longer. I can tell you myco is a real pain (yes it can be treated but not 100% - the weakest will get found out) and you/your vet did all the right things. We've had it and the weak stock succumbed and I won't breed from those who had it. Over time, we've lost stock, including several in a short space of time, and although its not pleasant, I, like you, know I'm not a bad keeper of animals. We all live and learn and chickens are very contrary and fragile beasties. Take your time, things will come right - there's loads more fun to be had.

[beach chick]

thank you both, that's very comforting. the kids are actually ok; the 10yo in particular was brilliant about holding Juanita while I fed her, the 12yo would feed her but not hold her. its an important life lesson for them I think. I just feel sad that she had a nice life with us, but not enough of it really.

we've had our oldest 2, Paris and Char, for 2 yrs now and they are the grande dames; their 2 sisters went via a visiting labrador and the fox; the next batch of 6 newbies were fab til 1 turned out to be a boy and was rehomed; then the fox got 3; and we got the latest 7.... when it all went a bit Pete Tong!

oh well, see what the morning brings - hopefully healthy chooks and lots of eggs!

thanks again