Pecker the Plymouth Rock is sick. When we let all the chickens out this afternoon for a quick run, he didn’t sound too good. His breathing was “gurgling” and he did not seem his sprightly self.

Just lately he has allowed us to pick him up and give him a quick cuddle and a pat. He walks beside us in the garden and has become very friendly, especially since we returned from Italy.

We did a little bit of research and after phoning the vet – I’ve never taken a rooster to the veterinarian – we found out that roosters can get chest infections. Luckily for him, Colin had begun to bring over the rabbit hutch which we have inherited from our new neighbour, so we thought, poor Pecker, you know what, the night time temperature will drop to around 5 degrees C so let’s bring him into the house for the night!

Pecker had a good night. He is still “gurgling” but he was warm – now it’s off to the vet.