I arrived home with my new Coronation Sussex pullet and her Light sussex roo mate last night to find a turkey crisis was brewing. All the research told us that turkeys are dim and make terrible mothers, now unfortunately I know that's true. The five gorgeous turkey chicks had been reduced to one, with the sole survivor not being well looked after by its mum.
While I was down south buying food for the pheasants, turkeys and chooks, (which justified the trip to pick up my newest additions); a meeting of the farming subcommittee had been held - resulting in a unanimous vote to save the turkey chick.
The Winemaker's wife is a VERY brave woman! Considering the turkey mum was going to deal to me for just looking at her chicks, I have no idea how the rescue mission was accomplished.
"Chirpy" arrived at our place late last night and was put to bed in the incubator/broody box with a warm wheat bag, a fluffy toy chicken and heaps of hay. I was a little anxious when I went to check on her/him this morning but all is well.
In fact all appears to be well all round. Quince is sitting tight on her eggs, Apple's chicks are loving their bigger home and it looks like we're going to let Banana have a crack at being a mum too.
What I've learnt today:
1. My best efforts to protect the new Coronation Sussex and her mate by putting them in a separate enclosure were all in vain. This morning they prompted jumped through the door way of the enclosure to hang out with the big chooks. Now I'm dashing out every hour to make sure everyone is fine.
2. It's now official - the best way to warm up a cold wee chick is to tuck it against your neck and let it snuggle in. Talk about getting that warm fuzzy feeling.
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