Protect your battered hens with this stylish piece of headgear! Designed to deter other birds from pecking at the head and neck, the coif takes minutes to whip up, while the small yardage makes it a perfect stashbuster; but the girls at the bottom of the pecking order will thank you. Alternatively, if your hens are friendly folk (friendlier than mine), the coif will still keep them warm (and cute!).

Sizes: S (M, L); 5.5” (6”, 7”) circumference at bottom by 3.75” (4.5”, 5.5”) height

Yarn: 20 yards of sport-weight yarn (see pattern notes for recommendations)

Needles: One 24” circular needle for magic loop or one set of four dpns, US 4 (3.5”); one dpn (if using circulars), US 4 (3.5”), for three-needle bind-off

Notions: Stitch marker; tapestry needle

Notes: Choose a yarn that will be sturdy enough to deter pecking, but light and breathable with good elasticity. I used Baby Bee Sweet Delight Baby in color Baby Sage. Do not use a yarn that sheds, as chickens can choke on small bits of fiber.
Choose your size based on the circumference of the coif at the bottom; if your hen is between sizes, choose the larger size. Young hens grow quickly, so watch closely for signs that of outgrowing. Be sure to cast on loosely to provide stretch.
Weave in all ends securely on the wrong side, to eliminate choking hazard. For the same reason, do not add embellishments such as buttons, ribbon, etc.
Hood is shown in size S.