New Digs for the Chickies

Turns out the ranch was becoming known far and wide as a feeding ground for any varmint within a 10 mile radius. Thanks to the chicken scratch freely given to one and all. The paddock will keep out large dogs and horses but that's about it.

I came out this morning and saw 4 - yes 4 - squirrels and a rabbit helping themselves. The chickens themselves seemed uninterested. OK.

Step one. Chickens are fed in coop only
Step two: Add wire mesh to bottom of coop b/c they all come in there at will too apparently
Step three: Glare at all wildlife to let them know I am not pleased

Ranch work seems to be, by definition, a pain in the ass and this was no exception. I do not touch that wire mesh without getting cut and my last one was JUST healing. My grip is not what it used to be and using the staple gun was a challenge. By the end I was bleeding and just about crying from frustration but it got done.

 Luckily the width was perfect

 $#^@@(%* staple gun

 One of many. That stuff is like razor wire.

However, it looked really uncomfortable to walk on. Even for a chicken. So I cut a piece of the carpet we had pulled out of the house and now they have classy new digs that are also squirrel and rat proof - I hope. Fancy schmancy. 

 The rug from the house. As it is the chickens sit on it and sh** anyway.

Pretty. Maybe I should make them a miniature golf course.