Chickens of the Fall

Free range chickens delight in the fall.  Blending in color with the variety of leaves, chickens begin their autumn gardening.  Beneath the fallen leaves, are small treasures of protein-enriched bugs and seeds. Chickens love to scratch and peck. Working the soil allows for aeration and compost material from the shredded leaves.

Treats of the season come in the form of pumpkins. Vitamins and phytonutrients support the health of the chicken. Pumpkin seeds help in ridding worms. Promote good digestion after the pumpkin melee with grit. Foods that can attract predators should not be near the coop. A sturdy coop also protects the flock from animals like raccoons, opossum, foxes and skunks.

Look out for the fall, sky predators - the owls of the night, and the hawks of the day. Eagles are stalwart hunters as well. The presence of larger pets will deter some of the planned attacks. Backyard chickens have good instincts. Even without a rooster, the hens will take the lead. They sound the alarm to others that a predator is overhead. Chickens have distinct communication calls. When a warning is given, chickens will heed and seek cover.

As the days grow shorter, chickens wander back to the coop progressively earlier at dusk. Temperatures tend to become cool and crisp at night. Chickens will huddle, arranging their thousands of feathers for maximum warmth.

Molting, a time of feather turnover may begin with the colder weather of the fall.  More feathers will be on the ground and less on the chicken. Feathers consist of  keratin, a protein fiber  Feeding chickens extra protein during this time will help with their energy. Also, when molting the hens may stop laying eggs.

If nature sees fit, babies born in the fall will become egg layers in the spring. 

Chickens of the fall are survivors.