The Kitchen Garden

September/October 2005

I expect by now, most henkeepers are wondering whether this year's crop of chicks will be hens or cockerels. We seem to have three pullets and two charming lads, but I never decide entirely till I hear a crow, having often been proved wrong. Sliding a piece of card under the shoulder/neck feathers and noting whether the ends are pointed, and therefore male, or rounded and female is pretty foolproof.

But we have one three year old Orpington hen, who laid in her first year, went broody and hatched some araucana chicks last year, and this year is presenting characteristics and behaviour that should guarantee her a place on Big Brother. She has wonderful comb and wattles – though not spurs or tail feathers, she crows occasionally, and although she and the Cockerel hang out harmoniously together, she alone in the harem has a full back of feathers – he has obviously noticed the difference.

In her book – Diseases of Free-Range Poultry – Victoria Roberts writes that sex reversal, especially from female to male is not uncommon in galliformes, and can often be caused by cancerous tumours in the reproductive system. She seems a bonny, if rather bossy bird, so I hope that her sexual ambiguity won't prove fatal.

Commencing at 10.00am and finish around 3.30pm. Cost per person is £75.00 including lunch - maximum 12 people per course. Cheque payment in full on booking please. Refunds (minus £20.00 administration charge) offered for cancellations within a month of the course date, but we suggest if you can't make it you try to find a friend to take your place. If we have to cancel, you will of course receive a full refund. Call 01359 268322 to book.

There will also be a course held at Assington Mill on Wednesday 28th September at a cost of £70.00 including lunch. Telephone 01787 229955 for details and directions.