JJ's Nest

Well, its been a few weeks since I've updated (my apologies!) but the chicks have been getting bigger and bigger every day!
Unfortunately, I dont think we have handled them enough - as they are still every skiddish/shy/leery of us when we approach the brooder. Speaking of the brooder - we had to "upgrade" the size and move up to a refrigerator box, so they could have more room to roam (and fly!).

"Oh my god! Please dont touch us!"

They are very curious birds, but still very cautious when we insert our hands into their nest. They are initial unsure at first, but then they circle around our hands, pecking at anything that might be a treat. However, if you attempt to pick them up (which they do not like), they will scatter around the brooder - in the most blustery fashion - running away as fast as they can!

They are now eating about 3lbs of feed every day. Most of it, however, is spilled onto the floor of the nest - as they like to climb on top of the feeder, and then knock it over. (good times!)

Caught in the act! Perched on top of the feeders!

I would recommend a screen door (or a cover of some kind) over the top of the brooder box...I have found the dander and dust that they kick up is everywhere in our mudroom!

We also placed a new "perch" (made of an old broom handle) in their box - but they havent taken to it yet...in fact, I do believe they are quite afraid of it! (flying over it every chance they get..."I dont want to touch that thing!")

Avoiding the perch as best they can!

As the chicks are now about a month old - they are about the size of a melon, looking more like baby condors or vultures than the cute, fluffy chicks they once were! But now it is much easier to distinguish them from one another, as their markings and feathers are beginning to take on an individual characteristic of their own.

If I can catch all of them - I'll post their pictures....

*20 minutes later*

Well, sheesh! After a lot of swaking and feathers flying, I was able to get a hold (gently of course!) of each one...so, here are the girls at 5 weeks:

The Easter Eggers: