And Then There Were Three

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.