We love to poke out from the safety of Momma Dolly

The chicks are becoming so adventurous now.  It is rare that I find many of them underneath Dolly.  Only during naps, do some prefer to snuggle underneath of her while some prefer to lay in front of her on the soft shavings warmed by the heat lamp.  They are also becoming faster everyday.  They are starting to develop tail and wing feathers and enjoying hopping all over the brooder.  Dolly is also becoming more protective as I try to inspect her chicks.

Dolly and her brood

Today, I had to treat two pasty butts.  She was not happy about me trying to catch her chicks.  She became frantic.  As the chicks peeped louder, she danced around in circles with her wings fully extended.  Poor Percy Peepers.  Percy was being trampled in the frenzy. Finally, I had to remove Dolly to the outside run, catch the chicks, treat the pasty butts and return them to the brooder while Dolly knew nothing of the sort!

Percy always near Momma’s side

Percy continues to thrive and does not seem to be in any pain.  Percy never ventures too far from Dolly and spends most times underneath of her.  Percy does continue to grow and develop.  Wing feathers are emerging and Percy is getting faster everyday despite having to adapt to the bad leg.  My attempts at physical therapy with Percy seem so futile, although I still think a little exercise is good, so I continue. My Pet Chicken has even offered to donate a reusable chicken diaper if Percy will need to become a house chicken.  The outpouring of support for Percy has been absolutely amazing and I am grateful for everyone’s kind words and thoughts.  I am awestruck that something so tiny as Percy, fitting in the palm of your hand and weighing less than a few ounces, can move people in extraordinary ways.

Much love and thanks,
Tilly’s Nest

Photo credits:  Tilly’s Nest