As avian flu season looms, the anticipation of a lockdown to safeguard our flocks from potential outbreaks becomes a reality for many poultry keepers. The cases of bird flu are currently much lower in the UK in 2023 than they have been for the last two winters, so we may not see a flockdown lockdown this year - which would be marvellous…. But just in case we do - here's my 2023 blog for keeping your chickens entertained in lockdown flockdown if it happens…. While crucial for their health and safety, lockdown can usher in a tide of boredom for our naturally curious and active feathered companions. Being cooped up can trigger stress and unwanted behaviours like feather pecking. As we brace for a possible flockdown this winter, this post delves into inventive ways to keep the boredom in chickens at bay, ensuring they remain entertained and mentally stimulated during this period.
Interactive Feeders:
- Engage your chickens with interactive feeders that challenge them a bit to access their food. This not only keeps them busy but also promotes better digestion by slowing down their eating pace.
Treat Scavenger Hunts:
- Hide some of their favourite treats around the coop, creating a fun game of find-and-feast. Whether it's scattering mealworms in their bedding or tucking them inside hollowed-out veggies, the hunt will surely excite them.
New Perches and Roosts:
- Introduce varying levels and locations of perches and roosts, providing fresh vantage points and roosting spots. This not only changes their scenery but also gives them a chance to redefine pecking order positions.
Mirror, Mirror:
- Satisfy their curiosity with some non-breakable mirrors in their coop. Watching them interact with their 'new friends' can be quite the spectacle!
Vegetable Garlands:
- Dangle some vegetables like cabbages, lettuce, or apples in the coop. Pecking at these hanging treats will provide both fun and nutritional benefits.
DIY Toys:
- Get creative with homemade toys using safe, non-toxic materials. Ideas range from treat-filled balls, hanging ropes with bells to simple cardboard boxes for them to peck and shred.
Music Therapy:
- A session of calming music or bird songs can be a serene experience for your chickens, believed to help reduce their stress levels.
Regular Interaction:
- Your presence is comforting. Spend time talking to them, offering treats, and enjoying each other's company. (You can always have a glass of wine or G&T whilst your doing it)
Learning and Training:
- Utilise this time to train your chickens on simple commands using treats as incentives. It's a win-win; they get mental stimulation, and you get a well-managed flock.
Rotate Toys and Activities:
- Keep the excitement alive by rotating different toys and activities every few days to keep your chickens interested and engaged.
Lockdown during the avian flu season can be tough both for keepers and chickens. However, with a sprinkle of creativity and extra care, the gloom of boredom can be replaced with sparks of joy, keeping your flock happy, healthy, and ready to thrive post-lockdown. Remember, a stimulated chicken is a happy chicken, and a happy chicken is a healthy chicken! Through these measures, we not only address the boredom in chickens but also unveil the joyous realm of possibilities in keeping chickens happy in lockdown. So, when it comes to lockdown, let's focus on what chickens like to do in their run to make their time enjoyable and enriching.
