Silly Tilly getting cuddles 🤍🐣
It’s moments like these with Silly Tilly that truly make my heart sing. People often ask what it’s like to have chickens, especially baby chicks, and honestly, it's pure joy mixed with a bit of a learning curve! Silly Tilly, our adorable Lavender Orpington, has such a unique personality, even at this young age. She's not just a cuddler; she's curious, a little mischievous, and surprisingly vocal when she wants attention. There’s a certain magic in watching these tiny creatures explore their world, pecking at imaginary treats and chasing after each other. I remember when we first got her as a tiny fluffball, barely larger than my thumb. The first few weeks are a whirlwind of ensuring they’re warm enough, well-fed, and safe. Setting up a proper brooder is key – we use a large tub with pine shavings, a heat lamp secured safely overhead, and feeders and waterers that are easy for tiny beaks to access. Cleanliness is also super important to prevent common chick ailments. It’s amazing how quickly they learn to peck and scratch, mimicking their adult counterparts even at just a few days old! One of the biggest surprises for me has been how much personality each chick develops. While some are a bit shyer, Silly Tilly is definitely the most affectionate and outgoing of the bunch. She’ll often hop onto my lap or shoulder whenever I sit near their pen, chirping softly as she snuggles in. These cuddles aren't just sweet; I truly believe they help build trust and make them feel secure, especially when they’re so vulnerable. It’s a wonderful way to bond with them, and it’s incredibly rewarding to see how comfortable and confident they become around us humans. It’s a reciprocal relationship – they offer so much joy and companionship. As they grow, the transition from brooder to coop is another exciting milestone. We make sure the coop is predator-proof and spacious, with roosting bars and nesting boxes. Introducing younger chicks to an existing flock can sometimes be tricky, so we do it gradually, giving them separate spaces initially before allowing supervised interactions. It’s all part of the journey of raising happy, healthy chickens. For anyone thinking about getting baby chicks, I'd say go for it! It's an incredibly enriching experience, bringing so much life and character to our farm. Just be prepared for the commitment – it's a daily responsibility, but one that comes with immense rewards. Researching breeds like the Lavender Orpington, known for their docile and friendly nature, can make a big difference in finding chickens that fit your lifestyle. Their beautiful blue-gray plumage and calm demeanor make them a favorite, and Silly Tilly certainly embodies all those wonderful traits. And always be ready for lots of chirping, tiny poops, and endless adorable moments. Silly Tilly certainly brightens our farm life every single day, and I can't wait to share more of her adventures as she grows, from fluffy chick to a beautiful hen!
