Ahhhh, Spring on the Grand Prairie! The rain we could definitely use though my peppers and toms don't care for this cold weather any. It's the chicks I'm most worried about. The new arrivals are snug inside their brooder boxes but the 7 1/2 week olds are outside. The broilers should be okay but the others just made it out in the last week. I took extra steps with some hay bales and wood to protect them against the wind and rain. I'm tempted to make a fire myself.
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I wrote the above before retiring last night. This morning when I checked everyone seemed fine but on closer inspection I found two black austrolorp pullets on the ground apparantly piled from last night. When I removed them I noticed one had it's eyes partly open and sure enough it was alive. I tucked her into my coat right away to shield her wet and trampled body from the wind. I brought her in, wrapped her in a towel and set her on the chair by the fire. I mixed some maple syrup, warm water and acv (apple cider vinegar) for quick energy. She was unconscious so I just tried putting a couple drops on her beak. I noticed her breathing strengthen as I sat with her on my lap holding warm bricks from the stovetop against her and cupping her very cold feet in my hands. I just set her down a minute ago. She was starting to move her head a little and her feet are shivering beneath the towel. I hope this is a sign she is warming and recovering. When I found her she was immobile and looked just like her dead sister. She has a spot of fresh blood near her ear. Cannot tell if this is external or from internal cause. She may survive the hypothermia only to succumb to injuries.
Just checked again and her breathing is definitely stronger and more steady.
She has met my last 3 approaches with small chirps, a good sign.
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