Hens will reduce egg laying in winter, and it’s not just because of the cold. The fewer daylight hours make the difference, as hens rely on light to regulate their laying cycles. Typically, a hen needs about 14-16 hours of light daily to maintain regular egg production. So when winter hits and daylight drops, egg … Read more
Proper ventilation during winter is crucial for keeping your chickens healthy and happy. It’s a bit more complex than just opening a window here and there. Having the right airflow prevents a range of issues, from frostbite to respiratory problems. In the photo, you can see the perfect ventilation spot at the peak of the … Read more
Winter can be tough on your chickens, even tough chickens, and prepping for it isn’t something to overlook. Cold weather brings its own set of challenges, from dropping temperatures to potential moisture buildup. Knowing what you’re up against helps you plan better. Chickens aren’t too different from us; they feel the cold, too. Even if … Read more
Frostbite in chickens happens when their skin and tissues freeze. It’s like when your fingers get painfully cold, but chickens can’t pop inside to warm up. Usually, it starts on their combs, wattles, and feet because these parts don’t have as much feather protection. The anatomy of a chicken plays a big part in this. … Read more
Are you looking to live off the grid or cut down on energy bills? How will you keep your chickens comfortable? Keeping your chickens warm without electricity is totally doable and can even be fun! Here’s how. First, a side note: Chickens acclimate very well as the cold weather comes on. Molting in autumn ensures … Read more
A good chicken coop should provide a safe, comfortable, and healthy environment for your chickens. It needs to be secure from predators like foxes, raccoons, and hawks, using sturdy materials and possibly burying wire mesh around the perimeter. Proper ventilation is crucial to prevent moisture buildup and ammonia from chicken droppings, so include windows or … Read more
Not all soils are created equal. Some consist of too much clay, so drainage is too slow. Others are sandy, so drain too quickly. Some are too silty, so the texture is not right. The best soil is 40% sand, 40% silt, and 20% clay. Even if this blend is achieved, the soil’s ability to … Read more
When winter winds howl and temperatures drop into the 20s Fahrenheit, it’s comforting to know that your chickens are snug and well-protected in their cozy coop. I want to share ten cozy designs for all of you do-it-yourself people who prefer to know exactly what goes into the construction of your coop and want to … Read more
People are more health conscious these days, or maybe it’s just that a huge portion of society, the baby boomers, are at the age where health is more of a priority than ever.. Whatever the reason, a word that has gained popularity is ‘sustainable’ or ‘sustainability.’ Sustainable practices, living, farming, and eating—a part of this … Read more
When it comes to raising chickens, the well-being of these birds plays a critical role in their productivity and, ultimately, in the quality of what they provide. I’m here to explore the deeper connection between chicken happiness and their overall health and output. Like any other animal, chickens exhibit a range of natural behaviors. These … Read more