Over the last week or two I’ve watched Buffalo start stamping her feet then squatting. She poofs out her wings a bit when she does it which seems to open her body. When she first did this I didn’t know what to think. I found she was docile to being picked up when usually she (and the other Ladies) scatter like seeds on the wind when you try and pick them up.

I asked Doreen, whom we got the chickens from. She said it means they are looking for some affection so that’s what I started doing since she was more docile.

And then she started laying eggs.

Well today Parm started doing the stamping and squatting and let me pick her up. She’s always been the most wiley of the birds (and the biggest) so it was really strange when she let me pet her chest.

So now I’m thinking this stamping and squatting behavior has more to do with egg laying. I’m still learning to speak chicken but it may be a signal to the roo to come over and do his thing. If he doesn’t, there’s the egg to be eaten. If he does, there are chicks. There is not, however, a rooster at this location so no chicks will be had. Thus, eggs will be eaten.

But that doesn’t stop the behavior.

So, my very unscientific study of my four chicken is based on this theory: Their combs and waddles will start to get bigger and redder. Then they will start stamping their feet and squatting. Next come egg.

So, if Parm starts laying eggs I know my theory is right. If she doesn’t, then I’m wrong. oh the shame!

Picture when I can get one.