This photo shows the chicken filter I've made for the eglu. It divides the run in half: the little hens can get though the gateways, but in theory at least the big ones can't!

On hearing a major commotion the other day I discovered that Lily had managed to squeeze her way through, and on discovering that the grass was no greener on the other side had decided to vent her irritation on the little ones.

I'm having to give far larger portions of salad to the larger hens now in the hope that Lily won't get tempted across again!

Note to eglu owners: in case it's not clear, I've inserted a sheet of metal grid between the two halves of the run, then re-clipped it all together. After this was in place for a week I made the two doorways by cutting and bending back some of the grid (those jewellery pliers came in handy!) and then covering up all the wire ends with gaffer tape.

Having been referred to as 'the little ones' or 'the cheepsters' for the past week, we've finally decided on names for our two new chickens: the timid ginger mongrel is Milly, and Molly's the much bolder speckled grey Maran. They're starting to free range now and loving it, though they're choosing to stay pretty close to the eglu.

Unfortunately Lily and Lottie are still not pleased about having new eglu mates. It's a bit easier when they're out and about though, as Milly and Molly are so light they can take off and escape their pursuers with the greatest of ease, leaving heavy Lottie in particular looking on in amazement!