Author Archives: James Polystead

Looking for an easy and low-maintenance solution to keep your chicken run dry during wet winters? If you have plain dirt in your run, you’ll want to find the best thing to throw on the ground. Luckily, there are several options that can provide insulation, traction, and comfort for your feathered friends. From mulch to […]

Hey there! Looking for the perfect Christmas gifts for the chicken keeper in your life? Well, you're in luck! I've rounded up the best presents that any chicken enthusiast would be clucking with joy to receive. From coop enhancements to cozy chicken apparel, there's something for everyone. So, let's dive in and discover the egg-ceptional […]

Hey there! Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and if you have a chicken keeper in your life, you might be wondering what to get them as a special gift. Well, look no further! In this article, I'll be sharing some of the best Thanksgiving gifts for chicken keepers. From cozy chicken-themed clothing to practical […]

Looking for the perfect gift for a chicken keeper in your life? Well, you’re in luck! I’ve got a fantastic list of the best gifts that will make any chicken enthusiast cluck with joy. From practical tools for chicken care to adorable chicken-themed décor, there’s something for everyone. So, let’s dive in and discover the […]

I've got a solution to keep your chickens' water from freezing! In this article, I'll share some practical tips and tricks that have worked wonders for me. From insulating the water container to using heated waterers and solar-powered heaters, there are plenty of options to explore. I'll also guide you through the importance of regular […]

I've always wondered if chicken eggs are soft when they're laid. So, I decided to dive into the science behind eggshell formation. In this article, I'll explore the role of calcium in the process, how eggs harden, and what factors can affect their thickness. We'll also take a look at the difference between soft-shelled and […]

I've found the perfect solution for all my chicken plucking needs – the Rite Farm Chicken Plucker! This amazing device makes the tedious task of plucking chickens a breeze. With its efficient design and powerful motor, it quickly removes feathers in no time. I can't wait to share with you all the benefits, features, and […]

As a farmer, I often wonder how to tell if a chicken egg is fertilized. The process may seem mysterious, but there are actually several ways to determine whether an egg has been fertilized or not. By examining the eggshell, using the candling method, and looking for specific indicators of fertilization, farmers can gain insight […]

I've always wondered how long I can keep chicken in the freezer before it goes bad. Well, I did some research, and in this article, I'll share what I've learned. We'll discuss the recommended freezer storage time for chicken, signs of spoiled frozen chicken, proper packaging and freezing techniques, safe thawing methods, and tips to […]

I've always wondered how much space chickens really need to be considered free-range. In this article, we'll explore the importance of providing adequate space for chickens to roam and forage. We'll discuss factors to consider, minimum requirements, and the impact of space on chicken behavior and welfare. Additionally, we'll provide tips for maximizing space efficiency […]

I've been raising chickens for years, and let me tell you, dealing with mites can be a real headache. But the key is catching them early. In this article, I'll show you how to spot the physical signs of mites on your chickens, recognize behavioral indicators of an infestation, and check your coop for mite […]

I'm always wondering how often I should clean my chicken coop. It's important to keep it clean for the health and well-being of my flock. But how often is enough? In this article, I'll explore the factors that affect cleaning frequency and share signs that indicate when it's time to clean. I'll also provide daily […]

I've always wondered how much food chickens really need each day. In this article, I'll break down the factors that affect a chicken's food consumption and help you understand their nutritional requirements. We'll also discuss the recommended daily food intake for different breeds and how to adjust portions based on age and growth stage. Whether […]

I've noticed something strange with my chickens lately – they've been laying down with their wings out. It got me wondering why they're doing this, so I did some research. In this article, I'll explore the various reasons why chickens exhibit this behavior. From potential health issues to environmental factors, we'll uncover the possible explanations […]

I've always wondered if it's possible to get pink eye from chicken poop. It's not something you think about every day, but when you're around chickens, it's a valid concern. In this article, we'll explore the connection between pink eye and chicken poop, and whether or not chickens are prone to pink eye. We'll also […]

I've always wondered why chickens lay eggs without a rooster. It's fascinating how these birds are capable of producing eggs all on their own. In this article, we'll dive into the role of hormones, the ovarian cycle, and the genetic factors that contribute to this phenomenon. We'll also debunk some common myths and explore the […]

I've always wondered why chicken coops are elevated off the ground. Turns out, there are several reasons for this practice. It's not just about keeping predators at bay, but also about improving air circulation, making cleaning and maintenance easier, and reducing the risk of diseases. Elevated coops also protect against flooding and provide shade and […]

I've had my fair share of experiences with egg bound chickens, and let me tell you, it can be quite distressing. But fear not, because in this article, I'll share with you everything you need to know about handling this situation. From recognizing the signs to providing immediate care and even preventing it in the […]

I've always wondered which chicken lays the bluest eggs. Well, the answer may surprise you. There are several breeds known for their stunning blue eggs, including the Ameraucana, Cream Legbar, Araucana, and Easter Egger. These chickens produce eggs that range from a pale sky blue to a deep turquoise. If you're looking to add a […]

I'm excited to share some metal shed chicken coop ideas with you. When it comes to building a chicken coop, using a metal shed can be a great option. In this article, I'll provide you with tips on choosing the right size shed, essential features to include, insulation and ventilation options, creative layout ideas, and […]

I've always wondered if it's safe to eat chicken wings with feathers. Are the feathers just a harmless part of the wing, or could they pose potential health risks? In this article, we'll explore the anatomy of a chicken wing, the dangers of consuming feathers, and the proper handling and preparation techniques to ensure food […]

I've discovered some effective strategies to boost egg production in chickens. By implementing proper feeding practices, ensuring a balanced diet, and providing sufficient calcium and water, you can enhance their productivity. Managing lighting conditions, allowing for regular exercise and free-range access, and using supplemental lighting can also have a positive impact. Additionally, maintaining their health […]

I've discovered a great way to boost my vegetable garden's productivity: using chicken manure as fertilizer. It's packed with nutrients that plants love, and it's easy to prepare and apply. In this article, I'll share the benefits of chicken manure, how to compost it, and the best practices for using it in your garden. Plus, […]

I'm excited to share my experience on starting a beehive in my backyard. It's easier than you think! I'll guide you through selecting the perfect location, choosing the right hive, acquiring bees, and setting everything up. Plus, I'll show you how to care for your bees and enjoy the sweet rewards of harvesting honey. Get […]

Hey there! Winter can be a challenging time for keeping chickens, but with the right strategies, it's totally doable. In this article, I'll share some tried and true tips on how to keep your feathered friends happy and healthy during the colder months. From insulating their coop to preventing frostbite and handling snow and ice, […]

I've noticed that my chicken's comb is turning white, and I'm wondering why. In this article, we'll explore the common causes of white combs in chickens. From nutritional deficiencies and parasites to infections and environmental factors, there are several reasons why a chicken's comb may turn white. We'll also delve into the connection between stress […]

I've noticed a strange lump on my chickens' chests and I'm wondering what could be causing it. In this article, we'll explore the common causes of chest lumps in chickens, the symptoms to look out for, and how diet and environmental factors play a role. We'll also discuss how to treat and prevent these lumps, […]

I've always wondered if those white spots on raw chicken are safe to eat. In this article, I'll dive into the science behind these spots and help you differentiate between safe and unsafe ones. We'll also discuss the importance of proper storage to prevent these spots from appearing. Whether you've already consumed chicken with white […]

I'm here to answer the age-old question: when should I candle my chicken eggs? In this article, I'll guide you through the different stages of incubation and when it's best to check on your eggs. From day 3 to day 28, we'll explore each important milestone, such as confirming fertility, assessing embryo growth, and even […]

I've always wondered when the best time is to butcher Cornish Cross chickens. Luckily, I've done some research and I'm here to share what I've learned. In this article, I'll walk you through understanding the growth rate of these chickens, factors to consider before butchering, signs that they're ready, the ideal age, how to determine […]

I love cooking with fresh eggs, but sometimes it's hard to know how fresh they really are. That's why I use the water test to check their freshness. It's a simple and effective method that anyone can do at home. In this article, I'll explain the science behind the water test, give you step-by-step instructions, […]

I've been pondering the question: should I heat my chicken coop? Cold weather can pose risks for chickens, but is it necessary to provide them with extra warmth? In this article, we'll explore the benefits of heating your coop and discuss different heating options. We'll also consider factors to consider before installing heating and the […]

As a chicken owner, I know how crucial it is to keep my feathered friends warm and protected in winter. With freezing temperatures and harsh winds, proactive measures are necessary. In this article, I’ll share effective techniques for insulating the coop, keeping water from freezing, providing warmth and protection, minimizing drafts, and more. By following […]