Pro - Does anyone else's nest boxes get soaked in rain?

[newcountrygirl]

Went out this morning to do my cleaning of the henhouse. Madge my little partridge pekin was hunched up by the water trough eyes closed. I washed out the trough and put in fresh water and some apple cider vinegar. Tried to tempt her with some food but she didnt want it. She had a drink so i left her and carried on. She didnt move from the water so i thought i would pick her up for a cuddle. As i picked her up all the water she had drunk poured back out of her beak. What can this be - she is 3 years old and my favourite. She was fine yesterday.

 

I had moved her into a crate and made her snuggly in the motorbike workshop with some low heat on. Hubby just went to check on her and came back in tears. She has died. She was our favourite little chicken - full of character and loved a cuddle. R.I.P. Madge.

[libby22]

What a shame. You did the right thing, she was warm and snug. One of my girls did exactly the same at 9 months old and it is heartbreaking. Madge was a really good age and had been loved loads - sounds like she had a lovely life with you.

[Ain't Nobody Here]

So sorry to hear that, poor little girl .

[newcountrygirl]

Thanks for your lovely comments. It seems daft I know - but she was our favourite. It seems so strange going to let them out and her not waddling down the ladder. The other night i went to shut them in and Matilda and Percy were still out. Matilda went up the ladder into the henhouse then cam back out and stood looking around. Then she went round the back and finally huffed and puffed and went in. I am sure she was looking for Madge.

[Luvachicken]

Awww, that's very sad.

I'm so sorry to read about your girlie and how the others looked for her xxx

[newcountrygirl]

Thanks luvachicken.

[mollyripkim]

I am really sorry too, no wonder you are feeling sad. At least she went peacefully in the warm and didn't have a long illness. I am so upset over Esme, as you say it's horrible without them. Esme was my favourite too in a way as she was the most feisty but friendly and very nosy so I am going to really miss her as I expect you will Madge too. Sending hugs.

[newcountrygirl]

Thanks mollyripkin - some people would think us daft - I know my friends in our village do cos they are all countryfolk, but they are little characters aren't they?