The Sussex chicken, originally bred in Sussex, Britain has become one of the most popular chickens for small backyard farms and homesteads. Initially bred to be a market chicken, for sale at the market, the Sussex chicken breed was known for fine table meat with its tender juicy flesh, white skin, feet, and legs. Reared […]
There’s nothing quite like collecting fresh eggs from your own flock. However, there are times when chickens start laying their eggs anywhere but in their nesting boxes. This can be frustrating, but there are several things you can do to encourage your hens to start laying in their boxes again. Clean and Refresh the Nesting […]
I understand the importance of providing a safe and secure environment for our feathered friends. One of the best ways to do that is by building a 10×10 chicken run. In this article, I will discuss everything you need to know about building a 10×10 chicken run, including the benefits of having one, the materials […]
Rhode Island Red chickens are a popular breed in the poultry industry, known for their beautiful red feathers and high productivity. They were first developed in Rhode Island during the late 1800s, and have since become a staple on farms across the United States and beyond. These birds are highly valued for their excellent meat […]
Sweet potatoes have been gaining popularity in recent years as a nutrient-packed alternative to traditional white potatoes. With their vibrant orange color and sweet taste, it’s no wonder they’ve become a staple in many households. But what about our feathered friends? Can chickens enjoy the benefits of sweet potatoes too? As backyard chicken keeping becomes […]
As a backyard poultry keeper, collecting and hatching eggs can be a rewarding experience. However, determining how long you can collect and store eggs before incubation can be a challenge. While some recommend collecting eggs within seven days, others suggest up to ten days. Egg type, storage conditions, egg age, and egg handling are critical […]
Introduction: The first time I encountered the strong smell of ammonia was when I transitioned my flock from a small coop to a larger one under the deep litter system. While I was familiar with the ammonia odor in urine, I hadn’t anticipated its presence in relation to chickens. The situation worsened when rainwater seeped […]
When it comes to feeding your family, there’s no doubt that having access to fresh, healthy food is important. This is where raising chickens for food can come in handy, as they can provide both eggs and meat for your meals. But how many chickens do you actually need to feed a family of four? […]
If you’re a backyard chicken owner, you’ve probably found yourself with an abundance of eggs at some point. While it’s great to have fresh eggs on hand for your family, you might also be interested in selling your extra eggs to your neighbors or others in your community. One option for doing this is setting […]
If you’re an avid egg consumer, you probably know that sometimes eggs can be scarce or expensive. In such cases, you may want to buy them in bulk when they’re cheap and freeze them for later use. But can you freeze chicken eggs in the shell? This is a question many people ask, and this […]
It can be devastating to find that a predator has taken one of your beloved birds. Coyotes are a common predator that can wreak havoc on a backyard flock. If you’ve had a coyote attack your chickens, it’s essential to take action to protect the rest of your birds. Here are some tips for deterring […]
When it comes to raising chickens, ensuring proper ventilation within their coop is of utmost importance. Just like humans, chickens need fresh air to breathe and thrive. Adequate ventilation not only promotes their overall health and well-being but also boosts their egg-laying productivity. So, before you count your chickens before they hatch, let’s dive into […]
One day, I noticed that one of my chickens was breathing heavily and seemed distressed. Concerned about its health, I immediately set out to investigate why my chicken was experiencing difficulty in breathing. In this article, I will share my findings and shed light on the potential causes, symptoms, and treatment options for chickens that […]
I understand the importance of keeping the coop clean and comfortable for my feathered friends. However, sometimes it can be challenging to know exactly how much bedding is necessary to maintain a healthy and happy environment for them. In this article, I’ll share my insights on whether chickens need a lot of bedding in their […]
I understand the importance of providing a constant supply of food for our feathered friends. One of the most convenient and efficient ways to do that is by using a 5 gallon chicken feeder. In this article, I will discuss everything you need to know about using a 5 gallon chicken feeder, including the benefits, […]
Whether you are building a coop from scratch or looking to upgrade your existing one, finding affordable windows is a crucial aspect of ensuring the safety, health, and comfort of your feathered friends. Here are some practical tips and suggestions to help you find inexpensive windows for your chicken coop. Check out online retailers When […]
One practice that has gained popularity in recent years is fermenting chicken feed. Fermented feed is believed to offer several benefits, such as improved digestion, stronger immune systems, and increased egg production. However, if you’re new to fermenting feed, you might be wondering if the consistency of your starter/broiler crumble is normal. On day three […]
If you’re a chicken owner, one of the biggest decisions you’ll make is whether or not to let your birds free-range. This means allowing them to roam around outside of their coop during the day, rather than keeping them confined to a set area. While free-ranging can be beneficial for chickens in many ways, it’s […]
One of the things I enjoy the most is watching my birds stretch their wings. Chicken wing stretches are a natural behavior that helps keep your birds healthy and happy. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of chicken wing stretches, how to recognize them, and what you can do to encourage them. Why Chicken […]
I have always thought that plucking was the only way to prepare a chicken for cooking. However, recently, I learned about the option of skinning a chicken instead of plucking it. It seemed like a much faster and easier method, and I was intrigued to learn more. In this article, I will be exploring the […]
As a chicken owner, you want to provide your birds with a healthy diet that will promote their overall well-being. One of the challenges of raising chickens is figuring out what foods are safe and nutritious for them to eat. You may have heard that mangoes are a great treat for chickens, but what about […]
One of the questions that you may have is whether or not chicken poop is dangerous. In this article, we’ll explore the potential risks associated with chicken poop and how you can safely manage it. Understanding Chicken Poop First, let’s take a closer look at what chicken poop is and why it’s produced. Chickens produce […]
As the trend towards self-sustainability continues to grow, more and more people are interested in raising their own chickens for fresh eggs and meat. However, the cost of building a chicken coop can be prohibitive for some. That’s where rent-to-own chicken coops come in – a convenient and affordable option for those who want to […]
When we think of chicken meat, we often picture juicy, succulent pieces of white or dark meat on our plates. But how often do we stop to consider the sex of the chicken that we are consuming? The reality is that in commercial chicken farming, male chicks are often considered a byproduct and are disposed […]
As a chicken owner, one question that often comes up is whether chickens can lay eggs without a rooster. The answer is yes, chickens can lay eggs without a rooster. In fact, most of the eggs we find in grocery stores come from hens that have never even seen a rooster. In this article, I’ll […]
Poultry exhibitions are events that showcase the best chickens, ducks, and other birds. They are important for many reasons. First, they allow breeders to showcase their work and potentially win prizes for their efforts. Second, poultry exhibitions provide an opportunity for people to learn about different breeds of birds and gain a greater appreciation for […]
As a poultry keeper, you will experience the death of your baby chicks. Some will die one by one, others suddenly with no warning, and in some cases many at the same time. In this article we look at why this might happen and what you can do to mitigate it. They are so cute!. […]
One of the questions that has often crossed my mind is whether the eggs produced by my free-ranging chickens would be considered “free-range eggs” if I were to sell them. In this article, I will delve into the world of free-range eggs, exploring the criteria that define them and determining if my chickens’ eggs meet […]
Have you ever considered raising your own backyard chickens? Not only do they provide a fresh source of eggs, but they can also help control pests in your yard and provide excellent fertilizer for your garden. However, with the rise of commercial chicken farming, the use of antibiotics has become a common practice to prevent […]
Raising chickens in your backyard is a fulfilling experience, both for yourself and the animals. However, if you own chickens, you know that they require a safe place to sleep at night. A roost is essential for their well-being because it keeps them off the ground, away from predators and other dangers. A pallet chicken […]
Have you ever looked at a chicken and wondered what breed it is? Well, if you’re a backyard flock owner or aspiring to be one, knowing the breeds of your chickens is essential. In this article, we’ll take an in-depth dive into one of the most popular chicken breeds out there: the Cali White. The […]
Chickens are one of the most popular domesticated birds globally, with an estimated population of over 20 billion. They are a source of food, feathers, and companionship for many people worldwide. Understanding your chicken’s weight is essential for their health and well-being. In this article, we will discuss the average chicken weight, the factors that […]
Living in a close-knit community has its perks, one of which is the occasional act of kindness that reminds us of the beauty of human connections. In my case, I have been fortunate enough to have a neighbor who keeps chickens and generously shares a dozen fresh eggs with me every week. As a token […]
Hatching chicken eggs is a process where fertilized eggs are incubated and hatched to produce baby chicks. It is an exciting and rewarding process that requires patience, care, and attention to detail. The process involves creating a safe environment for the eggs, maintaining proper temperature, humidity, and ventilation during the incubation period, candling the eggs […]
To cover or not to cover? As someone who grew up in a small town in the Midwest, I understand the importance of finding the right balance between shelter and openness when it comes to raising animals on a homestead. Recently, I received a question from a fellow homesteader who was unsure whether to cover […]
It’s easy to get attached to your birds. They provide eggs, company, and can even be considered pets. Unfortunately, theft is a reality that many chicken farmers have to face. The thought of someone stealing your birds in the middle of the night is scary and distressing, but it’s not uncommon. Many chicken farmers have […]
Are you considering raising chickens? Whether you want to have fresh eggs every morning or simply enjoy the company of these feathered friends, knowing the cost of raising chickens is an essential part of planning for your new adventure. In this article, we’ll go over all the expenses that come with raising chickens so that […]
One essential element of a chicken’s living space is a well-designed chicken run. In this article, I will share my experience and provide a comprehensive step-by-step guide to help you build an easy and practical chicken run for your feathered friends. Get ready to embark on this rewarding DIY project that will ensure the security […]
Having raised Buff Orpington chickens for several years now, I have come to appreciate their docile nature, beautiful appearance, and delicious meat. Buff Orpingtons are a popular dual-purpose breed, meaning they are suitable for both egg production and meat consumption. However, determining the ideal time to butcher these chickens can be a bit of a […]
I have observed my hens scratching in their nesting boxes for a prolonged period of time. I have often wondered why they do this and if it is normal behavior for when they are about to lay an egg. In this article, I will discuss why hens scratch in their nesting boxes and what it […]
I know how devastating it can be to lose a beloved feathered friend. Recently, I’ve experienced a string of losses that have left me puzzled and concerned. Three of my hens and one rooster have been killed in the past week, and all of them have had their heads bitten off. At first, I thought […]
One of the most important things to consider is the type of bedding you will use in your coop. Not only does bedding provide insulation and cushioning for your birds, but it also absorbs moisture and helps keep the coop clean. However, if your coop floor tends to get wet, finding the right bedding can […]
Are you searching for tiny chickens to keep in your backyard or urban space? Bantam chickens may be the perfect fit for you. In this article, we will discuss the different breeds of bantam chickens available and where you can locate them. So whether you’re a seasoned poultry keeper or a novice looking to start […]
Are you a dog owner looking to repurpose your dog kennel and add a flock of chickens to your backyard? You’re not alone! Many dog owners are turning to repurposing their dog kennels into chicken coops as a space-saving and convenient solution. Not only can you save money by repurposing your existing structure, but you […]
The Russian Orloff chicken breed is a stunningly beautiful bird with an interesting backstory. The breed was created in Russia during the early 18th century by Count Alexis Orloff. He was a lover of fine chickens and decided to create his own unique breed that would be both functional and beautiful to look at. The […]
I have always been fascinated by the different breeds of chickens available. One breed that has caught my attention is the Bantam chicken. Bantam chickens are known for their small size and adorable appearance, making them popular among backyard chicken owners. In this article, I will provide a detailed comparison of different Bantam chicken sizes, […]
I know firsthand how difficult it can be to find someone to look after my feathered friends when I need to leave town. Whether it’s for a quick weekend getaway or an extended vacation, it’s important to ensure that your chickens are properly cared for while you’re away. In this article, I’ll share some of […]
One of the most common questions is whether or not to install roof edge trim. In this article, I will share my experience with metal roof installation on my coop and provide some tips on whether or not to use roof edge trim. Why Use Metal Roof Sheets on a Chicken Coop? Before we dive […]
I’ve always been curious about the color of the yolk in hard-boiled eggs. I’ve heard people talk about how the color of the yolk can determine the quality of the egg, but I wanted to know more. So, I did some research and discovered the hard-boiled egg yolk color chart. In this article, I’ll share […]
The task of processing chickens can be quite daunting, especially when it comes to plucking those feathers. Luckily, I stumbled upon a game-changer in the world of poultry processing – the hand crank chicken plucker. In this article, I’ll take you on a journey to discover the wonders of this remarkable device, its benefits, and […]
