The Hens Came Running for Breakfast. Custard Walked Right Into the Middle.
Grain pours from Earl's cupped hand in a golden shower, scattering across the threshold of the old shed, and the hens are rushing in from every direction. A speckled black one pecks right at his feet while two russet hens hurry along the edge. Right in the middle of it all strolls Custard, tail held high, completely unbothered by the flock, as if she is the one in charge of breakfast. Behind them, the shed is packed with a lifetime of things: boots on a shelf, folded blankets, a basket of eggs, and potted plants on the windowsill.
Cats and backyard chickens can often share space peacefully, especially when the chickens are full-grown. Adult hens are fairly large and can be bossy, and many cats learn to keep a respectful distance. Chicks and young birds are a different story, since they are small enough to trigger a cat's hunting instincts, so they should always be kept safely enclosed. Introductions go best when they are slow and supervised. It is also smart to keep chicken feed stored away from pets and to wash your hands after handling birds, eggs, or the coop, because poultry can carry germs that are not good for people or pets.
Custard does not seem interested in chasing anybody today. She simply likes being part of the morning rounds, and the hens appear to have accepted their fluffy cream supervisor without complaint.
