Presto is a speed in music.  Dottie Speckles is a “presto” chicken.  All of the others are mellow girls.  They walk quietly and gracefully.  They scratch with purpose.  They preen ever so gracefully and they love to take naps.  These traits are the complete opposite of  Dottie Speckles.

She will be 15 weeks this coming Monday and she is on the move continually.   First thing in the morning, when I let the girls out, one by one, they jump and walk down the ramp.  First out are Tilly, Oyster Cracker, Feathers and Sunshine.  Then, I brace myself for Dottie Speckles.  She always comes out flying!  Then she runs everywhere.  Truthfully, it is rare that I see this chicken walk.  With purpose, she runs from here to there and then back again.  She jumps on the outside roost.   She jumps on the log.  She runs over to the water, takes a drink and then sprints across the run.  Then back again and so forth!  I get exhausted just watching her.  This is how she moves about all day long.

In regards to the pecking order, she has moved up and is now in the middle.  Interestingly, I wonder as she gains size, will she overtake the two Buff Orpingtons, Oyster Cracker and Sunshine?  Would she dare to take over Tilly’s position?  I don’t think so, as Tilly scares her so, but I have heard that Silver Laced Wyandottes can be bossy.

She is a very curious little girl.  She knows her name and enjoys engaging in conversations with me.  She visits me every morning, but is usually shoved out of the way by Tilly, Oyster Cracker and Sunshine, as they are jealous and want all the love for themselves.  When she complains, it is still in a chick like peeping voice.  I have never heard her make much noise.  However, with each day, she becomes more assertive.  She no longer fears going after what she wants, especially treats.  Lately, Oyster Cracker and Sunshine do not mind.  Tilly on the other hand, chases her away.

Even though she acts like a teenager, she enjoys being a baby still.  She seeks protection from the Silkies when she has done something to upset the big girls.   She even tries to sleep in the nesting box with Dolly.  The past few nights, I find her crammed into the nesting box with Dolly.  I gently lift her out and put her on the roost next to Fifi our 17week old Black Silkie.  There they settle in together.  Finally, she calms down enough and falls asleep, restoring energy for the following day.

Photo Credit:  Tilly’s Nest