he died in my arms
Tin Man has been the third main rooster to lead our flock. He's been recovering nicely in the pheasant coop for the past few days.
I moved some Lavender Orpington hens in with him to keep him company and to produce some pure Lavender Orpington chicks to hatch out. For that project, I had to install a nesting box into the coop.
Before wrapping up the project for the day, I picked Tin Man up to see how he was doing. He was heavily winded - possibly tired or stressed from the situation. Right before I put him down, he whipped back from me and seemed to snap his neck. He passed away only minutes after doing that.
It was a frustrating and upsetting situation. Burying our great rooster after I thought he was headed towards recovery. I feel awful. Tin Man - you will be missed, my friend.