The unfortunate reality of keeping pets is that eventually they die. Chickens in particular have more than their fair share of deaths to choose from. From health problems to predators, any chicken owner most likely has a story to share.
So today, it pains me to share my story.
This morning started out normal. When I let my dog out for his morning potty, I went through the side gate to let the girls out of the coop. About two hours later I realized I had never brought them their food. So I grabbed their feeder, went outside and hung it up as usual. Then I counted; 1, 2, 3, 4……wait, where’s 5? Maybe she’s in the coop laying an egg. So I opened the hatch to the nest boxes. Nothing here either.
Panic set in. It’s then that I noticed the pile of feathers in the corner. I went around back of the run and to my horror discovered more feathers outside. Blood drained from my face and tears welled up as reality set in. Clover had been taken, dragged away and in all probability, was gone.
In my two and half years of keeping chickens, this is my first loss. The heaviness of my grief has surprised me. I understand why people mourn dogs and cats. But I didn’t realize that I had come to love my chickens this profoundly. In fact, I barely shed a tear when my grandmother died ten years ago (But then again, I didn’t have much of a relationship with her).
I’ve had the girls since they were hatchlings. Raised them in my home and have since cared for them every day. These aren’t your everyday farm animals. These are family.
Yes, I understand the silliness of my words. I understand that Clover is just a chicken. Chickens die every day. And I better get used to chickens – and other animals – dying if I ever plan to keep a farm. Death is a reality that is unavoidable.
Yet I grieve and remember my fair lavender orpington as the calm, sweet thing she was.
Rest in Peace dear Clover.
I am sorry to hear about Clover. I know, we can bond with our chickens just like any of our pets. Hopefully you will not have any more attacks. Clover was a most lovely chicken.
Thank you so much for your kind words ma!
I’m so sorry for your loss! I lost one to a predator last year and three others who foolishly thought chickens should cross the road. It never gets easier but the first is always devastating.
Rest In Peace, sweet little Clover.
Thank you for your condolences. It’s certainly not an easy thing, but I hope there’s a lesson to be learned.
So sorry about your loss. It is very hard- when they become your family. We brought one home- I am new to chickens- that was sick, and she was suffering- so we had to put her down. Whether natural or other- it is always sad!
Thank you so much for you kind words. I remember when we first got our baby chicks – one died immediately. At the time it was sad, but not quite the same. We hadn’t established a bond – I hadn’t cared for or loved the chick. I just felt sorry it didn’t make it.
So very sorry for your loss. I had to put down my 19-year-old kitty earlier this year and I totally understand how hard it is to lose an animal.
I had a similar experience today, except I found the rest of her body and was able to dig a little grave for her inside the chicken coop so her soul stays with her friends. These chickens are my daughters and I have to tell her in a minute while she is in Germany with her Grandparents. . I will send her the beautiful daisy wreath you posted. It will give her comfort because it is so nice. thank you for posting your story…. Love is everywhere. Also for chickens. Susi from Sidney BC, Vancouver Island Canada
Thanks for the kind words Susi. And sorry to hear about your experience. Animals are such a joy to have in our lives, but it can be terrible when we have to say goodbye.