On sunday did another rescue, this time the hens were ex free range and in pretty good condition. Had a few poorlies, most of whom picked up after sitting quietly in the sick pen. One hen stood out from the rest, she had a large red comb and wattles , was huge and had spurs! We couldn't rehome her without pointing out she may be a he or a hermaphrodite. With customers collecting going well, a lot of people wanted at least 12 I phoned my friend who has a tiny small holding and she agreed to take her/him. He/she was a lovely hen picked him up for a cuddle no crowing so quite confused now. Our last customer was collecting 20 another member told him about our 'boy' and said they had no other hens now so were happy to take him. I was quite upset but at least he would be with the others he had been mingling with all day in the barn. Two poorlies were rehomes and the other one taken by a member so good result. Honestly these girls were very athletic when they were first released from the carriers in the barn the full time job was to catch them when they jumped up on the gate to escape. As the numbers went down and they had ample room they gave that up, but then we did rehome the jumpers first. One lady loved it when a girl leapt up next to the box she had ready, yes she has chosen to go home with you.
One customer did annoy me, she commented on how well feathered the girls were, she was led to believe they would be ex batties, of course the trust has to rehome the hens due to be replaced by new hens first. We did point out to her if she and the other lovely customers were not giving them a home they would be going to the slaughter.
Another satisfying , fulfilling and fun day despite a lot of hardwork also involved of course but worth it? Absolutely.