The rooster struck again yesterday.  Any sudden motion sets him off, and little Joseph (6),  dancing on the back deck, was the recipient this time.  Thankfully, he was able to make it inside.  Tears ensued, then anger, then came the plan.  In a nutshell, Joe decided that when the chicks (some of which are certain to be roosters) are a bit older, we will watch them closely and try to determine which rooster is the kindest.  They know that we can only have one rooster around, otherwise, more violence.  Then, on a beautiful summer day, we will "take him out."  And, as Joe said, "We Will Celebrate!!" 

Some of you may be scratching your heads and asking yourselves why we keep him at all.  Well, the hens free-range, so having this crazy bird around does serve a purpose. He keeps the hens safe, and he keeps them together.  They really aren't very smart, and when he isn't right beside them, they scatter everywhere.  Strength in numbers. And he is a pro at his job.  Cats, dogs, even a recent hawk attack.  But no,  you don't need a rooster if eggs is all you want.  He is completely unnecessary for egg production. 

School work has (almost) come to  a standstill with all these creatures running around.  We have introduced the 4 little hens to the bigger flock, and they are pretty cute, just learning to peck and scratch and give themselves dust baths.  The rooster has already established that he is king, but they're not quite sure what to do when he prances around them.  We initially tried to introduce them to the mama hen and her little chicks, but she puffed up like a balloon and attacked them.  I honestly think she would have killed them if we hadn't intervened.  I guess she sees them as a threat,  though she pays no mind to the other chickens.  School, schmool.  This is the greatest science study I've ever experienced. I think the boys will definitely remember this time with fondness.  

Construction on the New Chicken Coop