Spring comes slowly to our part of the Midwest. While the daffodils are already in bloom we are still experiencing some severe and unpredictable winter weather which means less free range time for the flock. The flock has a safe and spacious covered run which has been essential to maintaining their health and safety in our climate. An important and often overlooked part of maintaining chicken health is keeping your chickens entertained and engaged to avoid boredom. Boredom can lead to bullying and pecking behavior. It can even make them ill. Especially on the days when they are unable to free range, I make sure to provide them enrichment in the form of a nutritious snack, something they can spend hours picking apart and playing with. Vegetables and fruit suspended on a string are our current boredom busters. Their favorites include cabbage, lettuce (shown above), apples, and fresh corn on the cob. This simple enrichment provides them with quality nutrition (in addition to their regular feed) as well as entertainment!