Category Archives: Poultry

Zeolite in Chicken Feed: Boosting Growth, Health, and Disease Resistance.

Zeolite in Chicken Feed: Boosting Growth, Health, and Disease Resistance.

In recent years, the commercial poultry industry has been exploring innovative strategies to improve the health, growth, and overall well-being of chickens. One such promising approach involves the inclusion of zeolite in chicken feed. Zeolite, specifically clinoptilolite zeolite, has gained attention for its remarkable benefits in promoting better growth, reducing disease incidence, strengthening flocks, enhancing […]

How Long Do Roosters Live

How Long Do Roosters Live

Roosters, those charismatic and feathery creatures, have long been an integral part of farm life. With their vibrant plumage and distinctive cock-a-doodle-doo, they symbolize the essence of rural living. These proud poultry guardians are not only iconic but also play a crucial role in the dynamics of a chicken flock. However, amidst their regal presence, […]

Why Are My Chickens Roosting on the Roof Instead of in the Coop?

it’s not uncommon to encounter peculiar behaviors from our feathered friends. One such behavior that may leave you scratching your head is when your chickens refuse to sleep in their coop and instead roost on the roof. But why do they do this? In this article, we’ll explore some possible reasons behind this behavior. Highest […]

The Ultimate Guide to Preventing Avian Flu in Your Backyard Chickens.

One of my biggest fears is avian flu. This contagious disease can affect not only my chickens but also other birds and even humans. In this article, I will provide you with all the essential information you need to know about avian flu in backyard chickens, including how it spreads, how to recognize it, and […]

Roosting Bars for Chickens. Design, Size, Material, Height, and Much More.

Chickens do not like sleeping on the ground. Just like human beings who use raised beds, chickens need to sleep on raised bars. These elevated bars are known as roosts and come in all manner of shapes, sizes, and designs.  Chickens prefer to relax and sleep on a roost at night because they feel safer […]

The Importance of Dark Nesting Boxes: Shedding Light on a Common Question.

One of the most important aspects of providing a comfortable living space for my feathered friends is ensuring that their nesting boxes are suitable for their needs. However, a common question that arises when building or designing a chicken coop is whether nesting boxes need to be dark. In this article, I will explore this […]

Understanding Chicken Egg Shell Colors: A Fascinating Spectrum of Nature’s Palette.

Prepare to delve into the intriguing world of chicken egg shell colors, where each hue tells a unique story. From the timeless elegance of white to the earthy tones of brown, the enchanting blues and greens, and even the rare blush of pink, we are about to unravel the secrets hidden within nature’s vibrant palette. […]

Do Backyard Chickens Need To Be Wormed?

Do Backyard Chickens Need To Be Wormed?

Chickens are prone to intestinal worms, parasites that live in the gastrointestinal system. Chickens pick up these worms if they eat contaminated feed. This is especially in a free-range setting where wild birds and animals leave their droppings. Since they will pick up the worms once in a while, it is prudent to deworm your […]

Why Do My Chickens Follow Me?

As a chicken owner, one of the most delightful and intriguing behaviors you may notice is your feathered friends following you around. It’s a fascinating phenomenon that can leave you wondering, “Why do my chickens follow me?” In this article, I will explore the reasons behind this behavior, shedding light on the various factors that […]

Happy Hens: Winterizing Your Chicken Run

For backyard chicken owners, winter can be a challenging time. Cold temperatures and snow can make it difficult to keep chickens healthy and happy. One of the best ways to ensure your feathered friends are comfortable during winter is by covering their run. This simple step will offer protection against the elements and create a […]

Protecting Your Chickens from Hawks: Tips and Tricks.

Protecting Your Chickens from Hawks: Tips and Tricks.

As someone who has owned chickens in the past, I understand the anxiety that comes with having to protect your flock from predators. One of the biggest concerns that chicken owners face is the possibility of a hawk swooping in and taking off with one of their precious birds. It can be a heart-wrenching experience […]

Must-Haves for a Small Chicken First Aid Kit: A Guide for Backyard Chicken Keepers.

Must-Haves for a Small Chicken First Aid Kit: A Guide for Backyard Chicken Keepers.

I know how important it is to have a well-stocked first aid kit on hand. Chickens are prone to a variety of health issues, from respiratory infections to wounds and injuries, and having the right supplies on hand can mean the difference between life and death. In this article, I’ll share some must-haves for a […]

How to Determine Egg Freshness: The Float Test

When you buy chicken eggs, how do you know if they’re fresh or not? Sure, you can check the expiration date, but sometimes that’s not enough. Luckily, there’s a simple and time-tested method to determine whether an egg is still safe to eat. It’s called the float test, and it involves placing an egg in […]

Understanding and Mitigating the Odor of Meat Chickens.

Understanding and Mitigating the Odor of Meat Chickens.

I’ve heard a lot about the unpleasant odor of meat chickens. This led me to ask, what makes these meat chickens so smelly? Is it the breed or the feed they consume? After doing some research, I found that it’s a combination of both. In this article, I will explain why meat chickens produce such […]

Bear-Proofing Your Chicken Coop: Effective Methods to Keep Your Flock Safe.

Bear-Proofing Your Chicken Coop

As a chicken owner, keeping your feathered friends safe from predators is always at the forefront of your mind. From foxes to raccoons, there are a variety of animals that can pose a threat to your flock. However, one predator that you may not have considered is the bear. These massive creatures can easily take […]

Chicken Won’t Stand Up? Understanding & Helping

My chicken wont stand up.

As a chicken owner, there’s nothing more concerning than noticing that your beloved chicken is having trouble walking or standing up. It can be alarming to watch your feathered friend repeatedly fall over or refuse to leave its coop. Unfortunately, this is a common problem among chickens and can occur for various reasons, ranging from […]

how long do turkeys need a heat lamp

Turkeys, like all birds, are cold-blooded animals. This means that they cannot regulate their own body temperature and rely on external sources of heat to stay warm. Heat lamps provide an artificial source of heat that helps turkeys maintain their body temperature, which is critical for their survival. When raising turkeys, heat lamps are essential […]

Why are my hens pulling out feathers of other hens?

chicken supplies

Back in their wild days, chickens interacted differently with their surroundings and each other. They lived an active live with different experiences. The wild environment helped them deal with stress. They did not live in closed quarters but ran around free and wild.  With the onset of domesticated chickens, stress levels increased due to being […]

When Rats Rule Your Backyard: A Guide to Dealing with Uninvited Guests.

My backyard is a small oasis filled with greenery and a variety of plants. It’s the perfect spot to relax after a long day, soak up some sun, and enjoy the fresh air. The air is often filled with birds chirping and leaves rustling in the gentle breeze. I love spending time in my backyard. […]

How Hot is Too Hot? Heat Lamp Output Explained.

Have you ever wondered how restaurants keep their food warm and fresh for hours? Or maybe you’ve found yourself admiring the cozy glow of a heat lamp in the chill of winter. Heat lamps are versatile tools used to produce radiant heat, which can be used for anything from keeping food warm to providing an […]

The Warhorse Game Chicken: A Majestic Breed for Show and Sport.

As an avid poultry enthusiast, I’m constantly on the lookout for unique and captivating chicken breeds. One breed that has caught my attention is the Warhorse Game Chicken. Known for its majestic appearance and impressive athletic abilities, the Warhorse Game Chicken is a remarkable breed that combines beauty and strength. In this article, I will […]

Safe and Cost-Effective Alternatives to Heat Lamps for Brooders.

One of the most important aspects of raising chicks is providing them with a safe and warm environment in their brooder. While heat lamps are a popular option, they can be expensive to run and pose a fire hazard. In this article, I’ll be discussing some alternatives to heat lamps for brooders that are safer […]

Keeping Chicks Warm and Happy: How to Deal with Fussy Chicks in the Brooder.

I quickly learned that keeping chicks warm is crucial to their health and well-being. When we brought our chicks home, we set up a brooder with a heat lamp from Tractor Supply. However, despite our best efforts, our chicks refused to stay under the heat plate we provided. In this article, I’ll share my experience […]

The Benefits of Metal Roofing for Chicken Coops

The Benefits of Metal Roofing for Chicken Coops

When it comes to building a chicken coop, choosing the right materials is essential to ensure that your chickens are safe, comfortable, and healthy. One important consideration is the type of roofing material you use. While there are many options available, metal roofing is a popular choice for its durability, strength, and versatility. In this […]

chicken diseases and how to treat them

Chickens have become an integral part of human lives. They are reared for meat, eggs, and their feathers. However, just like any other animal, chickens are susceptible to diseases that can prove fatal if not addressed in time. Chicken diseases can have a profound impact on the poultry industry as well as individual farms that […]

From Waste to Gold: Creating a Compost Bin for Chicken Poop

One of the most effective and environmentally friendly methods I’ve discovered for repurposing chicken waste is using a compost bin for chicken poop. In this article, I will share my experiences and insights into creating and maintaining a compost bin for chicken poop, explaining its benefits, providing practical tips, and demonstrate why it is a […]

Quail Egg Size Comparison: A Comprehensive Guide.

Quail eggs are small but mighty, and have long been enjoyed in culinary cultures around the world. From Michelin-starred restaurants to home cooking enthusiasts, quail eggs have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their unique flavor and versatility. Despite being small in size, quail eggs pack a nutritional punch. They are rich in […]

Is it Safe to Fill Your Chickens Water Bucket with Water from the Backyard Garden Hose?

One of the most frequently asked questions among chicken owners is whether it’s safe to fill their water bucket with water from the backyard garden hose or if it’s better and safer to fill it up from inside the home with a faucet that has a filter on it. The answer to this question is […]

Roosters and Hens: Can They Live Together in the Same Coop?

It’s common to have questions about the best way to care for your feathered friends. One common question that arises is whether roosters can live with hens in the same coop. In this article, we’ll explore the answer to this question and provide you with some helpful tips on how to keep your chickens happy […]

Adding Sand to a Grass Run: Pros, Cons, and Cleaning Tips for Chicken Owners.

As a chicken owner, creating a comfortable and safe living space for my flock is a top priority. That’s why when it comes to choosing a flooring material for my coop and run, I’ve opted for construction sand. However, I’ve been pondering whether to add sand immediately or wait for my chickens to finish eating […]

Why Keeping an Inventory of Your Chickens is Important for Their Health and Safety.

Keeping an inventory of your chickens might seem like an unnecessary task, but it can actually be very helpful for several reasons. I know firsthand the importance of tracking information about my birds. In this article, I’ll be sharing why and how I keep an inventory of my chickens. Why keep an inventory of your […]

Are Free-Range Eggs Dangerous? Separating Fact from Fiction.

I was recently asked by a friend if it’s safe to eat free-range eggs. She was concerned that the chickens eating bugs could lead to disease transmission. This got me thinking – is there any truth to this concern? In this article, I’ll explore the topic of free-range eggs and disease transmission and share my […]

Do You Need to Wash Eggs Before Incubating Them? Here’s What You Need to Know.

I can understand the confusion and uncertainty that comes with getting a new incubator and being unsure of what steps to take. Recently, I received a question about whether or not eggs need to be washed before being placed in an incubator. In this article, I will delve into this question and provide some insights […]

How to Clean Chicken Poop off Concrete: A Comprehensive Guide

How to Clean Chicken Poop off Concrete

I know first hand the challenges of keeping their living space clean. One of the biggest challenges is cleaning up their poop, especially when it’s on concrete surfaces. In this guide, I’ll share my tips and tricks for effectively cleaning chicken poop off concrete, without damaging the surface or harming the environment. Why Clean Chicken […]

Finding Affordable Egg Cartons: Tips and Top Picks for Backyard Chicken Owners.

I love sharing my fresh eggs with family, friends, and neighbors. But when it comes to packaging and selling my eggs, finding affordable egg cartons can be a challenge. Many sources online charge a premium price for a dozen egg cartons, making it difficult to sell my eggs at a reasonable price. After some research […]

Chicken Coops: Are They Really Worth the Investment?

Chicken Coops: Are They Really Worth the Investment?

Have you ever looked at the price tag on a fancy chicken coop and thought to yourself, “I think some of y’all spent more on that coop than I did on my house”? Well, you’re not alone. As someone who has been keeping chickens for several years now, I’ve seen some pretty extravagant coops out […]

How to Properly Space Roosting Bars and Poop Trays for Your Chicken Coop.

Chicken Roosts

It’s important to provide your birds with a comfortable and safe environment. One key element of a chicken coop is the roosting area, where your birds will spend their nights. When designing your coop, you’ll need to consider how much space is needed between roosting bars of differing heights and between the front roosting bar […]

Do Meat Chickens Lay Eggs? A Guide to Egg-Laying Abilities of Broiler Chickens.

Do Meat Chickens Lay Eggs?

As someone who has raised meat chickens for a few years now, I often get asked if meat chickens lay eggs. The short answer is yes, meat chickens can lay eggs, but the real answer is a bit more complicated than that. In this article, we’ll dive into the world of meat chickens and their […]

Feeding the Wild: Nourishing Backyard Deer.

Do you love watching wildlife visit your backyard? If so, you might be wondering what food is safe to offer the majestic deer that occasionally graze in your lawn. Providing a nutritious diet for wild deer is beneficial not only for their health but also for yours. Wild deer require a well-rounded diet to survive […]

How To Keep Chickens Warm Without Electricity

It’s no secret that chickens are hardy animals, but the cold winter months can be tough on them. When temperatures drop, their bodies have to work harder to maintain a normal body temperature. This is especially true for breeds that are not cold-hardy. If left unprotected, chickens can suffer from frostbite, hypothermia, and even death. […]

Brower Chicken Feeder: Efficient Flock Feeding Solution.

In order to keep your backyard chickens healthy and happy, they must be fed a regular, nutritious diet. However, feeding them correctly can be a messy and time-consuming task. That’s where chicken feeders come in! These handy tools allow you to provide your feathered friends with the food they need while minimizing waste and mess. […]

All You Need to Know About Sumatra Chickens: Characteristics, Care, and Maintenance.

Sumatra chicken is a breed of domestic chicken that originated from the island of Sumatra in Indonesia. This breed is also known as the Black Sumatra chicken, and it is famous for its beautiful black plumage with iridescent green and purple sheen. Sumatra chickens have a muscular build, with long legs and tails, and they […]

Bantams vs Standard Chickens: The Differences

If you’re interested in raising chickens, you may have heard the terms “bantams” and “standard chickens” thrown around. But what do these terms actually mean? Essentially, bantams are a smaller breed of chicken, while standard chickens are larger. Bantams were originally bred for ornamental purposes, rather than for their meat or eggs. They come in […]