Big smiles, I have 4 ladies on their way

[Jax]

So I was chatting to a friend recently and mentioned in passing I wanted chickens and as luck had it he knew someone that needed 4 chickens rehoming. So we bought a coop and whipped up a run and they will be here monday or tuesday. Hubby has said as long as we get on well with these 4 hes going to buy me 2 blue ranger chicks for my birthday

[Suechooks]

Lovely! Welcome to Chookaholics Anonymous!

[RedThorn]

^ wot she said =) gratz

[lettucegrow!]

Exciting stuff, you'll love them and be totally besotted!

[Jax]

Thankyou Is stress a worry when they are settling in and is there anything I can do too ease it for them if stress is a factor.

[Nicos]

Te he! I'm really pleased for you!
Any chance of some piccies when you get them?????

[Jax]

Of course

[VirginVegGrower]

Now I want another four. Why do this to me?!
Seriously CONGRATS

[Hilary B]

There will be some stress, and if you want to minimise it, the best approach is to simply avoid adding to the 'move' stress until they have got over that (about 2 weeks) so perhaps use the same feed and delivery-system they are used to until they feel 'at home' in your territory. If they aren't used to being handled, don't attempt to pick them up by daylight, just go to the house in the dark, and use a head-torch to check them for any problems.
Gradually introduce the feeding method you want, and be patient.Once they learn that you are the source of food they will soon be perching on your feet and 'helping' you dig the garden!

[Jax]

Just got a call, the guy with the chickens will be delivering them later this afternoon Piccies to follow. They havent arrived yet and I am obsessed haha. Im going to make them a sign for their house before they get here.

[Jax]

They are here. They look great. The guy staye for 2 hours chatting!! Went out to put them to bed a minute ago and found all 4 ONTOP of their coop and had to put them all inside to which they clucked abit but I think that is just them getting used to it.

[angelat]

congratulations on your ladies!! its so exciting, its fate and obviously meant to be that you have them as well. You will get loads of advice and support if you need it from this site and pics would be great when your ready. chicken keeping is a great hobby, enjoy!!!

[Jax]

Thankyou, I was all set to take piccies but the guy stayed for 2 hours chatting and it was dark when he left! hehe. Just went and checked on them and 3 out of the 4 were perching and the other is nestled on the floor with her bum against the wall. The same place she was put when we got them off of the roof. I think its just a case of them getting used to it.

[frias]

They'll be settled before you know it and I bet you'll be adding those blue rangers very soon.

[veggiechicken]

I'm delighted for you and your new family. You'll never be without chooks now!