Author Archives: James Polystead

If you’ve ever owned chickens, or even just seen them running around in someone’s backyard, you’ve probably wondered about the miracle of egg-laying. Chickens are one of the few animals that produce eggs regularly, and in relatively large quantities compared to their body size. But how do they do it? The egg-laying process starts when […]

I know firsthand the devastation of losing a chicken to a predator. One predator that can be particularly elusive and difficult to identify is the weasel. Weasels are small, agile hunters that can easily slip through small spaces in chicken coops and take down birds. In this article, I will share with you how to […]

As chicken keepers, it’s essential to prioritize the health and wellbeing of our flock. Not only does it ensure that they live a happy life, but it also leads to better egg production and meat quality. Unfortunately, chickens are susceptible to a wide range of illnesses and diseases that can quickly spread throughout the flock. […]

When I first started raising chickens, I used traditional wooden nesting boxes with straw bedding. However, I quickly realized that this method was not very practical for me. The straw got messy quickly and was hard to clean, and the wooden boxes were difficult to move around. So, I began researching alternative nesting box options […]

I’ve often wondered about the various ways to manage and repurpose chicken waste. One question that frequently comes to mind is whether it’s possible to burn chicken poop. In this article, we will delve into the topic, exploring the potential for burning poultry waste and discussing alternative uses that can benefit both farmers and the […]

In the world of backyard chicken-raising, it is essential to provide your feathered friends with a comfortable and safe place to lay their eggs. This is where nesting boxes come in handy. Nesting boxes are enclosed spaces where chickens can lay their eggs in a warm and clean environment, away from other flock members. Providing […]

It’s important to provide your baby chicks with the best possible care to ensure their health and well-being. One aspect of this care is making sure they are getting the necessary vitamins and electrolytes in their water. In this article, I will discuss the different types of vitamins and electrolytes you can add to your […]

Finding the perfect hatchery to purchase chicks from is essential. However, with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. Fortunately, if you’re in Central Florida and looking to purchase 25 chicks, you have some great hatcheries to consider. In this article, we will explore 5 of the best hatcheries […]

If you’re new to raising meat chickens, you might be wondering how much feed they need to grow into healthy, plump birds. It’s important to get this right to avoid underfeeding or overfeeding your chicks, which can result in health problems and stunted growth. In this article, I’ll share my experience raising White Rustic Broilers […]

Chickens are fascinating creatures with an appetite for almost anything. From vegetables to insects, they love to peck and scratch at just about anything that comes their way. But what about marshmallows? Can chickens eat them? This is a question that has been debated by chicken keepers for a long time. While some argue that […]

One of the most important considerations is providing your feathered friends with a safe and secure place to live. A chicken run is a necessary addition to your coop that will allow your birds to roam around freely while keeping them protected from predators. However, the cost of building a chicken run can quickly add […]

Chicken is a popular meat that’s consumed all over the world. However, it’s important to ensure that it’s cleaned properly before cooking. For years, people have been using different methods to clean chicken, including lemon juice. But is it safe? This article aims to explore this controversial topic and determine whether or not cleaning chicken […]

Raising chickens for meat can be a rewarding experience for poultry enthusiasts and farmers alike. Not only does it provide a sustainable source of lean protein, but it also offers the opportunity to connect with food in a way that is often lost in modern times. However, it’s important to understand the process and commitment […]

I understand the curiosity and excitement that comes with wanting to know the age of your feathered friends. In this article, I’ll guide you through the process of determining the age of your chicken. While it may not be an exact science, there are several indicators and clues that can help you make an educated […]

Moving a chicken coop is an essential process that every chicken farmer must know. Whether it’s because you want to give your chickens fresh grass and soil to forage on, or you are moving to a new location, knowing how to move your coop safely is vital. In this article, we will guide you through […]

Have you ever looked out into your backyard and seen one of your chickens walking like a penguin? It’s not uncommon to see this strange behavior in chickens, but it can be concerning for backyard chicken keepers. Understanding why your chicken is walking like a penguin is important for their overall health and well-being. The […]

One of the essential practices in egg incubation is candling. Candling allows you to see the inside of the egg and assess the progress of the embryo. In this article, I will share my personal experiences and knowledge about candling chicken eggs, including when to perform this technique and how to do it effectively. So, […]

Eggs come in many colors, ranging from the classic white to shades of brown and even blue or green. But did you know that some chickens can lay eggs that are pink or even speckled? In this article, we will explore which chickens lay colored eggs and why. The most common color of chicken eggs […]

Keeping chickens in your backyard is a fun and rewarding experience for many people. Not only do they provide fresh eggs, but they also make great pets that can be both entertaining and educational. However, it’s important to ensure that your chickens are happy and healthy, which means providing them with a secure and spacious […]

Coryza, also known as infectious coryza, is a highly contagious respiratory disease that affects chickens worldwide. It is caused by a bacterial pathogen called Avibacterium paragallinarum. This pathogen primarily targets the upper respiratory tract, leading to inflammation and symptoms such as sneezing, coughing, nasal discharge, swollen sinuses, and facial swelling. Coryza can cause significant economic […]

I know the importance of having efficient and effective tools for processing chickens. One tool that I have found particularly helpful is the chicken plucker drill attachment. In this article, I’ll be sharing my experience using this attachment, the benefits it offers, and why you should consider adding it to your collection of chicken processing […]

As a chicken owner, you have probably heard of the idea of feeding your feathered friends eggs. It seems like an unusual concept, but many chicken owners swear by it. After all, chickens are omnivores and will eat almost anything that comes their way. So why not give them their own eggs? There are several […]

In the world of backyard farming, it’s essential to know what your chickens can and cannot eat. Chickens are known for their diverse diets, but not all foods are safe for them to consume. One question that frequently pops up is whether chickens can eat potatoes. After all, potatoes are a staple in many households […]

Have you ever wondered when the best time to collect eggs from your chickens is? Knowing when hens lay eggs can make all the difference in collecting fresh, delicious eggs regularly. As a chicken owner, it’s important to understand their egg-laying patterns and how they are affected by different factors. By learning more about when […]

I’m always looking for ways to make caring for my chickens easier and more efficient. One thing that has made a big difference in my coop is using roll-away nesting boxes. In this article, I’ll share everything I know about roll-away nesting boxes, including how they work, their benefits, and how to make one for […]

I have had experience with both raised and ground coops. While both have their advantages and disadvantages, the decision ultimately depends on your personal preferences and the specific needs of your flock. In this article, I will discuss the pros and cons of raised and ground coops, as well as the best materials to use […]

Chickens are a common sight in many backyards, and for good reason. They are a great source of fresh eggs, meat, and fertilizer. However, what many people do not realize is that chickens can also carry harmful bacteria that can cause illness in humans. In this article, we will explore the potential health risks associated […]

Raising chickens is a fulfilling and rewarding hobby. Not only do they provide us with fresh eggs, but their quirky personalities make them great pets. One of the most important things you need when raising chickens is a coop to keep them safe from predators and the elements. But just because it’s functional doesn’t mean […]

Chickens are hardy creatures that can adapt to a wide range of temperatures, but it’s important to understand how much cold they can handle. Knowing the limits of your chickens’ tolerance for cold will help you take appropriate measures to keep them healthy and productive during colder months. The Importance of Understanding Chickens’ Cold Tolerance […]

Keeping chickens safe and secure is a top priority for any backyard chicken owner. That’s why proper fencing and wire are crucial when constructing a chicken run. Without it, predators can easily access your flock, causing injury or even death. Additionally, if your chickens are free-ranging in your yard, you’ll need to protect plants and […]

One of the most exciting experiences is hatching your own chicks. However, it can also be intimidating and overwhelming, especially when it comes to setting up your incubator. One of the most important factors to consider when incubating eggs is the temperature and humidity levels. In this article, I’ll share some tips and guidelines to […]

Macaroni and cheese is a staple comfort food for many people. Its creamy, cheesy goodness is hard to resist, whether you’re feeling down or just need a quick and easy meal. But have you ever wondered if chickens can enjoy this delicious dish too? After all, chickens are known for their love of grains and […]

One of the most important things you can do for your feathered friends is to ensure they have proper nutrition. This includes providing them with the necessary vitamins and minerals, such as calcium, which is crucial for egg production and overall health. One of the most common ways to provide chickens with calcium is through […]

Raising chickens has become increasingly popular in recent years, with more and more people looking for sustainable food sources and a closer connection to their food. However, not everyone has access to a large backyard or the means to build a traditional chicken coop. That’s where the carport chicken coop comes in. The Benefits of […]