Yes it can be done, but be careful when you shove your hand down the hole to retrieve the Rabbits. As anything might have run in as well( Rats,Squirrels,Stoats,Weasels etc).
I work with a guy from Poland, one day he noticed the Waterloo Cup badges on my Lapels of my Barbour Jacket. We got talking about the type of Hunting he does in Poland. He hunts a Beagle and Shoots Rifles in the Forests.He has got his Dog in Quarantine at the moment which will be allowed out in September. Hopefully i can take him out a few times in the Season.
Sometimes it is necessary to food of your, perhaps they are eating something they are not supposed to.
As it was said earlier on the thread, don't let a pup Dominate you. I always make sure i can take food off my Pups.
If one shows Aggression i Grab it by the scruff of the neck and give it a shake. It only takes a couple of times for the Pup to get the message.
If they are large Fowl i take them of the hen at about 8wks(unless she starts laying before). If they are Bantams i leave them until they are a bit older.
It's quite normal for hens to go off lay this time of year.
Laying in the same nest box is also quite normal the hens take a fancy to a nest box and lay in it everyday.
At 4 wks old the chicks should be on Growers Pellets and Corn. The hen will be fine on that, but i take my Hens away from the Chicks when she starts laying again.
You should be able to Sex the chicks about 12wks old.
Hope this is some help to you.
Ps keep the Growers pellets in a Hopper so they can eat as and when they like.
I was talking to Red Dog last night and a few other Terrier and Lurcher lads during our monthly get together when Red Dog asked a very good question. As we know when a Rabbit is dead the Fleas leave the Rabbit. So when Myxi wipes out a Colony of Rabbits is it possible for the Fleas to lie Dormant until a new Colony of Rabbits Recolonise the Warren. So once again the Circle begins. Your opinions please fellow Hunters.
I've Judged a few shows in the past, i must admit it is a nerve wracking experience. My objective is that i try to pick the Dog that at least looks like it can do the Job, As we know a lot of Lurchers entered in the shows never see any Quarry. As it was mentioned earlier on on the thread it's a bit of fun during the Summer months. At the end of the Day the only Person really pleased with the Judge is The Show Champion owner.