Misty is a Blue Andalusian. She doesn’t look anything like her namesake, Misty of Chincoteague; perhaps I should have named her Stormy, for another horse in that book series. I read every one of Marguerite Henry’s horse books, and this hen is my way of acknowledging those classics. Although this Misty has slate grey feathers, she will lay white eggs. Hatched March 29, 2013.

These two are Speckled Sussex. These hens, though of the same breeding, are unique unto themselves. In fact, all of the Speckled Sussex that I’ve had have all been full of character—friendly, active, curious and demanding. They might be my favorite breed. Florence is named after Florence Bascom, the first woman hired by the United States Geological Survey (in 1896). She is the smallest, quickest and smartest of the two. Agatha Agate is a very, very sweet hen of very little brain. She likes to sit on laps. She likes children. She would never peck anyone. Agatha is the perfect hen for school visits and is adored by many.

Jasper is a Welsummer, which is a light-weight breed. She is very pretty, and is curious, active and gentle. She is the only hen that has been picked on. For some reason, the other girls like to pluck out the feathers at the base of her tail. I’ve tried all sorts of remedies, but to no avail, and although it makes her look scrawny, it doesn’t seem to bother her. Jasper tolerates the feather-picking and no blood is drawn. Her eggs are dark brown. She is a very nice hen to have around.

Pearl is a Cochin with blue-grey feathers. Cochins have masses of soft feathers all the way down to their toes. This makes them very pretty, but also high maintenance. They suffer in the heat, and when it is cold, get mud and snow stuck to their feet. Cochins are heavy-bodies birds, so waddle more than run. Pearl is a sweet, mellow bird.