A boy and a chick

This is my little helper, watching the chicks, while I clean the brooder.

He tells them stories.

Listens to their secrets.

It is such a joy to watch them play.

So many cuddles

Today was one of those days.

We stopped at the cafe for lunch and the look on this hatchling's face when I produced her kitty from my bag was priceless.

She gives her kitty so many squeezes.

And snuggles.

And kisses.

Where is the hatchling?

There she is!

Do you love kitty? 

She leans forward and says, 'Yeah.' 

Lucky kitty,

to have an adoring hatchling.

First chicks of 2015

This hatchling barely remembers the chicks from previous years. He is smitten and vibrates with excitement as he peers into the incubator.

I'm trying a new set up this year, with the Brinsea eco brooder.

I have the chicks and their brooder inside a large 120cm rabbit cage. I'm hoping that will keep them safe from our moggies. 

I know that many others choose to invest in the mini chick drinkers and food dispensers. 

I use jar lids. 

I throw everything away after every batch of chicks. 

I like that disposability, because no one is exempt from potential infections or diseases.

I line the brooder with paper towel which is changed several times a day, so I just let them play about scratching in their crumbs. 

It isn't tidy, but it is easy to keep clean.

Ducks... ducks are a different brooder of birds. 

Right now, I am enjoying the laid back care required for chicks. 

In comparison to ducklings. 

It is so sweet how quickly they develop this chicken behaviour.

Welcome to the world little birdies!

In case you had not noticed, we are happy you are here. 

Making rings

Daddy dragon was home for a week, 

and spent some time showing the hatchlings how to make jewellery from wire.

They are very pleased with the fruits of their labours. 

Bye bye baby 'veggie'

Our latest litter of baby hedgehogs have finally come of age to go to their new homes. 

It is bitter sweet, especially this special baby girl hedgehog.

She and hatchling no2 were good buddies.

I hope her new family enjoys her as much as we have.

Rainy days

Calm, quiet, mid - week days. 

Hatchling no2 loves playing dolls, but her bigger sister is quickly growing out of dolls.

It has left her a little bereft, to be honest.

Thankfully, the wheel turns and this newest hatchling sister is a keen doll player.

And it is my great joy to watch them, as they play and laugh together,

on this calm, quiet, mid - week day.

It's Monday, Good luck to you all.