When it comes to disasters and preparation, psychologically it might be good to consider the quote from Irish poet and playwright Oscar Wilde (1854-1900): “To expect the unexpected shows a thoroughly modern intellect.” From the strings of tornadoes that routinely ravage the Midwest and South to the recurring and intensifying cycle of wildfires and flooding … Read more
One of tHe most important moments in the life of any chicken owner is when their hens lay eggs for the first time. The day you find one, two or more eggs in the nest is the day you feel like all your effort was worth it. Then, one day you find something that looks … Read more
Chances are, there are wild plants growing near your home that are far more nutritious than greens you can buy. Your chickens will love these herbs, and so will you. You can stretch your chicken feed dollars by supplementing with wild plants that are free for the picking, and pecking at fresh plants gives chickens … Read more
When it comes to having chickens, a road trip is occasionally required. Whether that’s a long distance move or a short trip to a vet, the goal is the same: Get the chickens to their destination as easily and stress-free as possible. Housing Hints When traveling with chickens, they’ll certainly need a secure shelter in … Read more
Joseph recently reached out to me about an issue with his flock. He lives a few miles north of us, in a rural-zoned area in the next county. As such, he can keep an unlimited number of chickens on his property. He specifically chose to keep just laying hens and has about two dozen Orpingtons, … Read more
Flies can be a headache any place livestock and poultry abound, but even the smallest urban henhouses attract flies. Sometimes lesser species such as stable flies, blow flies or soldier flies take up residence in poultry yards. But major nuisance bugs found most everywhere chickens reside is the common housefly (Musca domestica). About Houseflies Adult … Read more
There are no bad chickens, only bad chicken habits. Some chickens jump up to sleep in trees every night or treat themselves to an egg scramble from the nesting box. But it’s up to you to break your chickens of whatever bad habits picked up over time. If left unattended, you could be out dozens … Read more