Pure And Simple Sweetness

We’re at DEFCON 3 in the barnyard.

With the foxes and the hawks and lord knows what else hanging around, the neighborhood dogs are sounding their warning barks more and more frequently.  Keela’s bark and posture are VERY specific when it comes to predators.  I call it her “Danger, Will Robinson!” look.

I believe the other animals understand and are taking heed.  The chickens seem to be gathering together more, not flying over into the backyard as much.  Safety in numbers or something like that.

To do my part, I’m checking on the barnyard even more than usual, making sure there’s still nineteen feathery heads pecking around.  I scan the field obsessively, although Keela spots predators WAY faster than I do.

I worry about Jasmine.  She is still moving slowly, and frequently flaps her wings when she’s walking around.  All the chickens do this when they’re in a hurry, but I think she does it because it helps her walk a little better.  I know if something got into the barnyard she would be, for lack of a better phrase, a sitting duck.

I’m not the only one that’s concerned.  On my many checks I often find these two together. Just like this.

One of my favorite photos ever.  Makes my heart melt.

Does Big Man sense she’s vulnerable?  I think he does.  He doesn’t stand next to the other hens like this.  Only Jasmine.

Never thought I’d say this…but I am so damn proud of my rooster.

**Shared at Clever Chicks, Homestead Hop, Thank Goodness It’s Monday, (mis)Adventures Monday, Old-Fashioned Friday, From the Farm and HomeAcre Hop**