And Then There Were Three

Monday, August 23, 2010
Unfortunately, we lost one of our chickens today. My mom discovered our sweet Ramona at the bottom of the coop this afternoon. She seemed fine this morning and had even laid an egg so we know she wasn't egg bound. Our best guess is that the heat got to her despite our attempts to keep our chickens cool with the mister and access to plenty of fresh water.


Ramona had replaced Effie as my favorite chicken over the past couple of months because of her friendly, sweet nature.


The boys loved her too.

courtesy of www.laurawinslowphotography.com

As I was cleaning out the coop after she passed, Finley came outside and immediately noticed that there were only 3 chickens. I told him that Ramona had died. He was quiet for minute with a very sad face and then asked if we could recycle her. I tried to explain that we only recycle paper, glass, etc. but he still doesn't understand why we can't recycle chickens.


I've consulted some folks over at the Phoenix Permaculture Guild and they have assured me that these kinds of things happen with chickens and we likely won't know the reason (although they agree that it was most likely heat stroke). 


I didn't realize I'd be so sad about losing one of my chickens. I guess I have officially become a crazy chicken lady. Rest in peace sweet Ramona - we will miss you.

*ETA: We received some feedback that perhaps our dear Ramona was stung by a scorpion. Scorpions are a big problem around our home so it wouldn't surprise me. Apparently, a scorpion sting coupled with high temperatures can lead to a quick death in chickens.

10 comments:

Laura said...

Oh, Grace, I am so, so sorry. How heartbreaking. I know how much you loved Ramona. She was a beautiful girl and I know you will miss her dearly. Such a sweet moment with Finley, too. xoxo

Brett and Jennifer Humphrey said...

Oh no! I am so bummed. I loved Ramona. I'm glad Jason got such a wonderful picture of her on top of your bird house Saturday. She will be missed!

Noelle Johnson said...

I am so sorry....

I am so sad as well. Who knew that you could get so attached to a chicken? I for one, have. I hope the others will make it through this hot summer. I am sure they will miss Ramona :(

sara said...

Oh Grace, I'm so sorry. I hate that you lost one of your girls.

Anonymous said...

Oh no- poor Ramona! I'm so sorry Grace. :(

Kellye said...

Awww...Grace! I'm so sorry! I really hate that, but it was such a sweet and innocent sentiment from Fin with the recycling. God love him!

Fakey said...

Oh, poor Ramona. At least heatstroke is probably a peaceful way to go...the usual culprits around here are foxes and dogs.

Grace said...

Thanks everyone. The other girls are looking good today so I'm happy about that.

Unknown said...

aww, so sad.

Maryann said...

aw I am so sorry Grace. That is hard-- no matter the animal.

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