Animal Writings

Peruse these pictures of chickens taken at the Eastern Shore Sanctuary and Education Center, on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. Here, chickens live naturally. Starting in the pre-dawn morning, they explore, discover, and enjoy the outdoors. They break into small groups of roosters and hens. They peck and scratch at the ground. They dustbathe and sunbathe. They seek out and derive pleasure from the company of friends. They communicate with each other using a wide repertoire of vocalizations. When a rooster finds some interesting food, he lets the others know, and they come running. The roosters also warn the flock of overhead predators. In the early evening, the chickens who can fly high enough roost in tree branches, while the rest of the birds take their spots in the barn. They sleep in perches and on hay beds, and burst out the barn door first thing next morning.

Chickens, when given the opportunity, lead lives that are rich and vibrant, social and communicative. Some parts are full of movement, others are restful and peaceful. Each day is different, and from the looks of things, chickens look forward to each one.