We have begun reaping the results of our chicken raising efforts as within the past week, the girls, at least the older ones, have begun laying. Two, two, one, two, THREE EGGS! Each day holds a surprise in the hen house.
The first egg was of such importance that we had to take a picture of it “on location.” Not until we were inside our house and examining the photo did we realize a second egg was partially hidden in the straw. We checked the nesting box later in the day, and there were two more eggs waiting. How convenient for us that all hens choose to lay in the same box.
Since we have not yet discovered the daily laying timetable of our girls, we have been checking numerous times to see what we can find. 8:45, no eggs. 9:45, “hot off the press” – the egg that day still warm from hen's body. Holding this roundish object in my hand makes me reflect on the miraculous aspect of the event. Eating them is another small miracle – dark yellow yolks with a rich eggy taste. Thank goodness current nutritional thinking says an egg or two a day is usually fine.
Of course on the days of three eggs we heap praises on our bigger hens. And on the days of two eggs or one, we discuss between ourselves who is sloughing off on the job: Violet, Dot, or Tallulah. Ruby and Little Spotty have not yet begun laying, as they are about four weeks younger than the big girls. Violet in particular clucks and squawks with great vehemence. I would like to think once the egg for the day is done with that she would calm down, but so far her loudness is impossible to categorize.
Meanwhile, Little Jerry patrols back and forth, seemingly very proud of his girls and himself.
No comments:
Post a Comment