Christmas cheer, or Christmas neglect?

Paul Donovan winds up 2025, by giving some advice on ensuring our hens have a safe festive season.

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Christmas can be a wonderful time for many of us, particularly if you have children, with all the present opening, but it can also have a significant impact on our hens. The holiday season brings with it a range of changes that can affect our feathered friends, from changes in routine, increased noise and activity, to the threat of cold weather, all of which can potentially stress or frighten our birds. However, with proper care and attention, hens can also enjoy special treats and festive attention just as much as we do.

To minimise stress and ensure the well-being of your hens during this festive period, it is essential to maintain a consistent routine, provide a safe and quiet environment, and offer healthy treats. Furthermore, we should monitor temperature and weather conditions, and ensure our hens are provided with the necessary means to cope with these.

While it may seem festive to decorate the chicken coop (I know a few people who do this), it really is not a good idea. Chickens are inquisitive birds and will peck at anything out of the ordinary. It is more than possible for them to ingest something which is toxic, or gets stuck in their throat, or even get tangled amongst the decorations. And flickering fairy lights can severely affect the hens circadian rhythm and sleep cycle, leading to stress, behavioural problems, and even health issues.

If you do want to make the coop a bit more festive, but safe for the hens, think about decorating it with natural materials, and festive plants. Or hang cabbages, squash, apples, or some maize from the ceiling. Avoid at all costs, holly and mistletoe, as these can be toxic to chickens, and can cause digestive upsets.

CHANGES IN ROUTINE CAN CAUSE ANXIETY