Author Archives: James Polystead

How to Protect Your Chickens from Predators Digging Under Your Chicken Tractor.

How to Protect Your Chickens from Predators Digging Under Your Chicken Tractor.

When keeping chickens in a chicken tractor that you plan to move daily or more, it is crucial to consider the potential for predators to dig underneath the tractor. In this article, I will discuss the risks of predators digging under the tractor, the measures you can take to prevent it and share some examples […]

Safe and Nutritious Vine Plants for Your Chicken Fence: A Guide.

Safe and Nutritious Vine Plants for Your Chicken Fence: A Guide.

I know the importance of providing my flock with a comfortable and safe environment to live in. One of the ways I like to improve their living space is by adding some greenery to their area. It not only makes it look more aesthetically pleasing, but it also provides them with some shade and something […]

How to Stop Chickens from Pecking Feathers

Chickens are social animals, but sometimes they can turn on each other and cause harm. One of the most common problems among chickens is feather pecking, where one or more birds intentionally pluck feathers from another bird’s body. This behavior is not only painful for the victimized chicken but can also result in serious health […]

Find Your Perfect Etsy Chicken Coop: The Ultimate Guide.

When it comes to raising backyard chickens, there are a lot of decisions to make. From choosing the breed to deciding on feed and water options, every choice you make can impact the health and happiness of your feathered friends. One of the most important decisions you’ll make is selecting the right coop for your […]

why is my chickens comb flopped over?

If you’re a proud owner of backyard chickens, you’ve probably noticed the unique appearance of their combs. A chicken’s comb is the fleshy, raised structure on top of their head that serves multiple purposes. Not only does it regulate their body temperature by increasing or decreasing blood flow, but it also plays a crucial role […]

Tips and Tricks for Sealing Your Automatic Waterer Cups.

Tips and Tricks for Sealing Your Automatic Waterer Cups.

You’re probably familiar with the struggle of keeping their water supply clean and fresh. One popular solution is using automatic waterer cups, which allow chickens to drink from a small cup that automatically refills with fresh water. However, getting these cups to seal properly can be a challenge. In this article, we’ll explore some tips […]

Maximizing Daylight for Healthy Chickens: Designing an Optimal Coop.

When I decided to build a chicken coop under the canopy of a majestic tree, I realized the importance of providing my feathered friends with ample daylight. Understanding the specific daylight requirements for chickens became crucial to ensure their well-being and productivity. In this article, I will share my personal experience and insights into the […]

My Experience with a Snaplock Chicken Coop: Everything You Need to Know.

Finding the right coop can be a daunting task. When I was first starting, I had a difficult time deciding which type of coop to invest in. After much research, I settled on a snaplock chicken coop and have been extremely happy with my decision ever since. I n this article, I’ll share my experience […]

Help! We Accidentally Got Roosters: What to Do Next.

Raising chickens can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it’s important to do your research before buying chicks. Unfortunately, one common issue that many first-time chicken owners encounter is not being able to determine the gender of their chicks. This can be a problem if you’re not prepared to keep roosters, as they can […]

Plymouth Rock Chicken Breed Characteristics

Docile, gentle, hardy and good sitters, Plymouth Rock Chickens have been one of the most common chickens in America where they were developed using crosses of Java, Brahma, Cochin, and Dominique.  The dual-purpose chickens are among the sweetest breeds you will come across and are very friendly, where many owners claim they follow them around […]

The Downside Of Dual Purpose Chickens

Dual purpose chickens are a common breed among farmers. These chickens are bred for both egg production and meat consumption. This means that they are larger in size than egg-laying breeds, but not as large as meat-laying breeds. The idea behind dual purpose chickens is to have a reliable source of eggs while also being […]

How Far from Your Well Should You Put Your Chicken Coop?

One of the most important considerations you need to make is the location of your coop. This is particularly important if you have a well on your property that you rely on for your drinking water. So, how far from your well should you put your coop? Let’s explore this topic in more detail. The […]

Flock Blocks: The Nutritious & Fun Chicken Treat

Chickens are fascinating creatures that require love, care, and attention to thrive. One of the essential aspects of their care is providing them with an adequate diet to meet their nutritional needs. While chickens enjoy a variety of treats, flock blocks have gained immense popularity among chicken keepers in recent years. These dense cubes come […]

Wyandotte Chicken Breed Guide.

Raising chickens has become an increasingly popular hobby and a source of food for many households. One breed that stands out among the rest is the Wyandotte chicken. Known for their unique feather patterns, hardiness, and excellent egg-laying capabilities, Wyandottes are a great addition to any backyard flock. In this guide, we will delve into […]

African Geese Breed Guide

African geese are domesticated waterfowl that originated in Africa. They are a large breed of goose that can grow up to 18-28 pounds and have distinctive knob-like protrusions on their bills. This breed has been a favorite among farmers and hobbyists alike for their distinct features, including their unique coloring, which ranges from white to […]

Cream Legbar Chicken Breed Guide

Cream Legbar chickens are a fascinating breed with an interesting history. Developed in the early 20th century in the UK, they were created by crossing Gold Legbars, White Leghorns, and Araucanas. The goal was to produce a chicken that was not only prolific egg layers but also had a beautiful appearance and gentle personality. Why […]

Guinea Fowl: Unraveling Their Traits, Personalities, and Benefits.

As an avid enthusiast of guinea fowl, I cannot help but share my admiration for these extraordinary creatures. Not only do they lay delicious eggs, but they also serve as remarkable security guards for my chicken coop. In this article, I will delve into the intriguing world of guinea fowl, shedding light on their personalities, […]

Heated Base for Your Plastic Chicken Waterer.

I know how important it is to provide clean water for my flock. However, during the colder months, keeping water from freezing can be a real challenge. That’s why I decided to invest in a heated base for my plastic chicken waterer. In this article, I’ll share my experience with using a heated base and […]

Choosing a Large Capacity Chicken Feeder: Tips for Finding the Right One.

Choosing a Large Capacity Chicken Feeder: Tips for Finding the Right One.

As a chicken owner, you want to make sure your feathered friends are well-fed, especially when you’re not around to monitor their food intake. A large capacity chicken feeder that can withstand the elements and hold enough feed for an extended period is an excellent investment. But with so many options available, it can be […]

will free range chickens lay eggs in the coop.

If you’re interested in raising chickens, you’ve probably heard the term “free range” thrown around quite a bit. But what does it actually mean? Essentially, free range chickens are birds that have access to outdoor spaces where they can forage, scratch, and peck to their heart’s content. This is in contrast to factory-farmed chickens that […]

Solar Light for Chicken Coop

One often overlooked aspect of a chicken’s habitat is lighting. Adequate lighting plays a vital role in maintaining their well-being, as it affects their behavior, egg production, and overall development. Traditionally, chicken coop lighting has relied on electricity from the grid, leading to high energy costs and potential risks. However, with advancements in sustainable technology, […]

Build & Maintain a Shed Chicken Coop: The Ultimate Guide

Raising chickens has become a popular hobby for many people, and for good reason! Chickens can provide families with fresh eggs, natural pest control, and even serve as fun pets. However, finding the right housing solution can be a challenge. A shed chicken coop combo is a unique option that combines storage space and chicken […]

Flooring for Chicken Coop: Choosing the Best Option

Flooring For Chicken Coop: Choosing The Best Option

As someone who has been raising chickens for years, I understand the importance of providing a clean and comfortable living space for your feathered friends. One of the essential elements of a well-designed chicken coop is the flooring. Choosing the right flooring for your chicken coop is critical for the health and well-being of your […]

The Ultimate Guide to When Newly Hatched Chicks Should Start Eating and Drinking.

The Ultimate Guide to When Newly Hatched Chicks Should Start Eating and Drinking.

I’ve hatched quite a few chicks over the years. One of the most important things to consider when raising baby chicks is their diet and hydration. It’s crucial to know when to start feeding and watering them, to ensure they grow up healthy and strong. In this article, I’ll share my experiences and knowledge on […]

Understanding Chicken Breeding for Beginners.

Chicken breeding can be a rewarding and enjoyable activity for beginners who are interested in raising chickens. Understanding the basics of chicken breeding is essential for ensuring the health and productivity of your flock. However, with so many different breeds and varieties available, it can be overwhelming for beginners to know where to start. This […]

Using Diatomaceous Earth in Your Coop: Benefits, Application, and Considerations for Baby Chicks.

One popular solution that many chicken enthusiasts use is diatomaceous earth (DE). However, when it comes to using DE in the coop, questions often arise, especially concerning its suitability for baby chicks. In this article, based on my personal experience and research, I will provide insights into using diatomaceous earth in your coop, including whether […]

Why Is My Chicken Puffed Up and Not Eating? Common Causes and Solutions

As a passionate chicken owner, I always strive to provide the best care for my feathered friends. One day, I noticed that one of my chickens was puffed up and showed no interest in eating. Concerned about its well-being, I set out to investigate why my chicken was displaying these symptoms. In this article, I […]

Making Backyard Goat Milk Caramels: Step-by-Step Guide.

Making backyard goat milk caramels is a delightful experience that results in some of the most mouthwatering treats you will ever taste. It’s a labor of love, but one that’s worth every ounce of effort you put into it. The process involves cooking sugar and goat milk together until it reaches the perfect consistency, then […]

How Often Should You Clean Your Chicken Coop? Tips and Tricks from Experienced Owners

How Often Should You Clean Your Chicken Coop?

Keeping a backyard chicken coop can be an incredibly rewarding experience, providing you with fresh eggs and delightful companionship. However, owning a coop also means taking care of it, including cleaning it regularly. The question on many chicken owners’ minds is, how often should you clean your coop? The answer varies depending on factors such […]

Understanding Feather Loss in Chickens: Causes and Solutions.

Understanding Feather Loss in Chickens: Causes and Solutions.

One issue that has caught my attention is when a chicken has no feathers on her bottom. It can be a surprising sight and may leave you wondering why this is happening to your feathered friend. In this article, I will share my personal experiences and knowledge about the possible reasons behind feather loss in […]

Butchering Cornish Chickens with Water Belly or Heat Stroke: Safe to Eat or Not?

Butchering Cornish Chickens with Water Belly or Heat Stroke: Safe to Eat or Not?

As a backyard chicken keeper, I have always taken pride in raising healthy and happy chickens. However, there are times when unexpected challenges arise, such as when my Cornish chickens show signs of water belly or heat stroke. This led me to wonder whether it is safe to butcher and consume these birds, considering their […]

Best Commercial Vacuum Sealers for Processing Poultry Cuts.

I know how important it is to have a reliable and efficient commercial vacuum sealer. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. In this article, I’ll share my personal experience and the recommendations of other bird processors on their favorite commercial vacuum sealers for cuts. JVR […]

Celadon Quail Hatching Eggs: The Ultimate Guide

Celadon quail hatching eggs are a special type of quail egg that are highly sought after by breeders and hobbyists alike. These unique eggs are characterized by their pale blue-green color, which is the result of a genetic mutation in the quail breed. This mutation also affects the color of the chicks’ feathers, giving them […]

Guide to How Chicken Waterers Work

When it comes to raising backyard chickens, providing clean and accessible water is crucial for their health and well-being. A chicken waterer is a device specifically designed to provide poultry with clean drinking water while minimizing waste and mess. These devices come in various types, sizes, and materials. Brief Explanation of What a Chicken Waterer […]

The Top Coop Building Mistake I Made (And How You Can Avoid It).

How to get rid of the ammonia smell in the chicken coop.

Building a chicken coop can be an exciting and rewarding experience. It’s a place where your feathered friends can lay eggs, roost and keep safe from predators. However, like any project, there may be some things you wish you had done differently. As a chicken owner, I’ve gathered insights and advice from others who have […]

Homemade Chicken Waterers And Feeders

If you’re a backyard chicken keeper, you know how important it is to provide your birds with clean water and nutritious feed. Just like any living creature, chickens need access to fresh water at all times in order to stay healthy and hydrated. Without proper hydration, chickens can suffer from dehydration, heat stress, and other […]

How Do Roosters Fertilize Chicken Eggs

Have you ever wondered how baby chicks are made? When it comes to chicken egg production, fertilization is a crucial process that ensures the development of healthy chicks. For farmers and backyard chicken keepers alike, understanding how roosters fertilize chicken eggs is an important part of raising poultry. The Importance of Fertilization Fertilization is the […]

How to Build Your Own Whizz Bang Chicken Plucker: A Step-by-Step Guide.

One of the most time-consuming and tedious tasks is plucking feathers from the birds after they have been slaughtered. It can be a messy and unpleasant process, but there is a solution – building your own whizz bang chicken plucker! In this article, I will be discussing plans for building your own whizz bang chicken […]

Oklahoma City Chicken Ordinance: Regulations for Raising Chickens and Quail.

I was excited to learn about the new Oklahoma City chicken ordinance which went into effect on March 4, 2022. Previously, the city only allowed chickens and quail on properties an acre or larger, which made it difficult for many residents who live on smaller plots of land to enjoy the benefits of backyard chickens. […]

Keeping Chickens in Texas. Laws and Ordinances

Raising backyard chickens in Texas is a popular activity, especially after the Covid-19 pandemic that taught us the importance of being self-sufficient. Chickens require little maintenance, and they are a great source of food and entertainment when stuck at home.  In the state of Texas, there are no state laws specifically regulating the keeping of fowl, […]