Good News From the Chicken Coop!

Chickens don't have clocks, but they definately know what time it is. As the sun shows it's setting colors of orange, red and purple, the chickens have begun their dance. They slowly file into the coop, clucking and chatting. They gather around the feeder for a midnight snack, and the waterer for a nightcap.

By ones and twos, they make their way up the roost ladder, but little progress is made. One has forgotten something and jumps back down to the ground with a thump. Others excuse themselves and jump down from one roost level to another before settling onto the highest rung. Another is looking for her friend, and jockies for position. Like a latecomer to a concert hall where the music has already begun, one move jostles the whole row and they cluck their complaints for all to hear.

Our Roo is the last one up to the roost. He walks up and down the roost to evaluate the prime spot. Is he looking for his favorite hen or the spot from which to protect his flock? He settles on a location and squeezes in, causing more disruptions from the girls. They all must shift one way or another to accomodate their boyfriend.

Finally all is quiet and the chickens have settled in for the night. They will be in the same position when I come out before dawn to refresh their feed and water. I turn and glance into the nest boxes and there it is.

Our first egg.

The chickens fooled us all, and beat our poll: the date was November 24, 2007. Thanks to all who participated!