angelam1 Posted September 19, 2011 Share Posted September 19, 2011 hello all, thank you to all who helped my son while i was away. one of our chickens died and he was very distraught. he got a lot of support from this site so thank you if you replied to him. The chicken has passed away over 2 weeks ago now and so far the chicken that has been left is fine. laying eggs and busying herself (she can free range all over garden and patio) so keeps herself busy. i am spoiling her with attention and treats to try and keep her company, however i am so conscious that she is on her own. I didnt want to get another chicken but i dont want to leave her on her own. i may be able to rehome her with a lady i know who lets her chickens free range also so she will have a good life but am not sure what to do. is it cruel to just keep one chicken? any advice would be very much appreciated. angela Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
percy049 Posted September 19, 2011 Share Posted September 19, 2011 a lone hen can get depressed if she isnt with her own kind, even if you induldge her with affection and treats. I think the best option would be to get another hen or two, but you said you didnt want this option. That only leaves you with re-homing, which can be stressful to only introduce one hen to a new flock of many, especially if your hen is getting on in years. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
fluffy chick Posted September 19, 2011 Share Posted September 19, 2011 I agree. But maybe you could get another hen and your friend could then introduce the 2 new ones at the same time? That way any bullying would be shared between the 2, one single bird would have a hard time Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
gongladosh Posted September 19, 2011 Share Posted September 19, 2011 That only leaves you with re-homing, which can be stressful to only introduce one hen to a new flock of many, especially if your hen is getting on in years. That much is true, but I'd say it's still better than leaving a hen on her own. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest Posted September 19, 2011 Share Posted September 19, 2011 I had this problem and got my girl a friend - i made sure she was almost the same size as that was suggested by the breeder to help. They had a few squabbles but are now good friends! I'd say get her a friend and keep her - i'm sure your son would prefer that! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Tweety Posted September 20, 2011 Share Posted September 20, 2011 If you really don't want to get any more chickens, then it would be best to rehome her- unless she is a very old lady. I took on a lone hen a couple of years ago and had very few problems introducing her to quite a large flock, so it can be done, especially if they free range. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
