Welcoming Our Rescue Chickens: Feathered Friends and Fresh Eggs
We have had chickens on the farm for many years. Having previously purchased chickens from a livestock dealer, this year we have chosen to adopt some rescue chooks instead.
Back in January we adopted three fabulous white leghorns from Lincolnshire based poultry rescuers FPC Poultry Rescue UK (LINK!) then at the beginning of July, we decided to add a few more hens to the brood in the form of ISA Browns. Adopting rescue chickens has been a rewarding addition to our farm and to our shepherd’s hut retreat. The White Leghorns have proved to be chatty and curious. They also deliver fantastic white eggs with deep orange yolks. The ISA Browns have settled in nicely, they are affectionate and calm and their rich brown eggs are simply delicious.
Beyond the clucks and bright feathers, these lovely ladies not only bring real benefits to our land but to our guests and family too. Our daughter has made it her mission to care for them—she feeds them grains and mealworms daily and gathers the eggs before breakfast. Their bond between her and our hens grows daily.
Benefits for the Farm
Our rescued hens help us maintain a healthy, balanced ecosystem. They eat garden pests and weeds, reducing the need for chemical controls. Their scratching and pecking turns soil naturally, which improves aeration and fertility. We also add their used bedding to our compost to enrich our small vegetable patch and garden flowers.
A Treat for Our Guests
We are also lucky enough to provide fresh, free-range eggs to all the guests who stay with us. Having freshly laid eggs first thing in the morning is an unbeatable luxury—pure, tasty, and straight from the coop.
Rescuing means giving these hens a second chance at a happy life. For us, it’s a win for animal welfare, soil health, and our guests’ farm-stay experience. So, come stay, unwind, and meet our rescue flock—you might just find your new favourite farm pastime!