The mental 'to do' list is really multi tasking ... but

I attempt to do one thing at a time. First thing upon rising, animals come first. Yesterday morning it was checking the chicken coop to make sure there were still live chickens! This is where the term 'pecking order' comes from. There were a few 'peckings' going on, but that was to be expected.  Thing I, one of my original hens, lost her eye in a carry off by the neighbor's dog. So she was the first target of the new hens. She's won out now. For the most part, the integration of 5 new hens into the flock was successful. So now my flock is up to 13, with one Sr. Rooster, and 1 Jr. Rooster.  With the addition of the new hens, I wondered just how quickly they would adapt to their new environment and start to lay eggs again. Well, the answer is immediately.  I got 6 eggs before early afternoon. I usually let the flock free range around the property during daylight hours so I let MY hens out and let the newbies explore the outdoor coop yard. My usual introduction might be to let them stay locked up and watch thru the pen, but I left the door ajar in case they wanted to do any cautious exploring.  One lil red hen tried.  And of course these hens don't know me and what happens during a day, so I started to introduce my whistle and treats when called. They're not quite sure of it, but they are noticing what everyone else does. At dusk, it's roosting time, and Sr Rooster calls everyone to fly up to the roost. These 5 are confused to say the least. They can hop, they can jump, but they sure as heck do not know what it means to get UP. They were in poor shape from multiple roosters, so having just one Sr. Rooster may be ok for now. You will notice silver streaks on their backs and wing areas -- that is an antibiotic spray that will reduce the fly attacks and help them heal.  Now they will have the chance to eat, play, chase bugs and grow some feathers. Another day of my animal caretaker routine, but I get fresh eggs. One of these days I'm going to have to try this neat recipe I have for an 8 egg custard ice cream .. maybe just once ;-D