honorandkit Posted June 7, 2010 Share Posted June 7, 2010 I've never had a pet before that didn't live in the house, surrounded by creature comforts. They've only been with us since Saturday, so still confined to their run. They have plenty of shelter (the henhouse is on legs so they can go underneath, and we've thrown a sheet of shed roof felt over the run so they can stay out of the rain). The henhouse is plenty roomy, they have lots of food, bark chips to scratch around in, and someone popping out to talk to them every couple of hours or so. BUT I'm worrying they're bored/lonely/fed up! I know, I know...I'm projecting. I've given them 2 lots of mealworms today, just to cheer them up. What can I do to stop them being bored, that won't "spoil" them? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
honorandkit Posted June 7, 2010 Author Share Posted June 7, 2010 Anyone? I also meant to say - they're on growers pellets at the moments. What else can I feed them to add some interest? - I know some people give them yoghurt, etc, but is this ok for very young birds? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
chicken bark Posted June 7, 2010 Share Posted June 7, 2010 Personally I would use a tarpaulin rather than shed roof felt and you may find problems with bark. Felt is an appealing habitat for red mite. That aside I'm sure they are fine. They have each other for company after all. If you hang up an apple/cabbage then that will occupy them for a while and is a bit cheaper than mealworm. I think you are probably worrying too much. How old are they? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
honorandkit Posted June 7, 2010 Author Share Posted June 7, 2010 Thanks for the info, Chicken Bark. I never even thought about the mite issue with the roofing felt. The chippings we've put down are wood chip, got through our local council's parks and gardens department. It's a mix of all sort - leaves, wood chip etc - is that a problem? The girls are 8 and 13 weeks old - just babies. I am definitely worrying too much! Worry is my middle name... Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Redwing Posted June 7, 2010 Share Posted June 7, 2010 The felt should be ok, its when its covering a wood roof where its a problem, the mite dont like the felt they like the gap between that and wood I know its not a lot of consolation but chickens are fine, they usually amuse themselves but a tyre, a few logs or a cabbage hung up to peck at will help keep them busy I know its hard but lots of treats will make them shout for your attention if they see you! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
chicken bark Posted June 7, 2010 Share Posted June 7, 2010 Sounds like a lovely set up. I'm not sure about what treats for hens that age but I'm sure someone will be able to help in a minute. Don't worry - enjoy and get your camera out. I'm sure we'd all love to see them! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
