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 ensure it’s built well. There is so much to cover here that I won’t get into the advantages of a cozy coop or what should go into building a chicken coop. If you want to read about those items, I have some other articles for you here: Choosing The Right Chicken Coop Design For Your F ..read more

When setting up a chicken coop, the security of chickens hinges on the materials chosen for their enclosure. Like many, you may find yourself weighing the merits of chicken wire against hardware cloth. The comparison is worthwhile since the two are commonly used yet differ significantly. Chicken wire is often the go-to material for new chicken coop builders. Its hexagonal pattern characterizes it, and it is usually made from thin, flexible galvanized steel or PVC-coated wire. While it’s inexpensive and great for keeping chickens in, its primary drawback is its strength, especially when deterr ..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 sustainable trend is backyard chicken keeping. Why? Raising chickens perfectly fits the definition of sustainability. “sustainable, adjective sus·​tain·​able sə-ˈstā-nə-bəl1: capable of being sustained 2a: of, relating to, or being a method of harvesting or using ..read more

If you’re a beginner interested in hatching poultry, you will need to know a few things before starting your first egg incubation experience. An egg incubator simulates the conditions for a fertile egg to develop and hatch into a healthy chick. These conditions include specific temperature, humidity, and ventilation levels that mimic what a brooding hen provides. Incubators provide precision and consistency. While nature can often provide a perfect setting, an incubator gives you control over the environment, raising the success rate of your hatch. Choosing the right incubator should be based ..read more

I care deeply about the well-being of my feathered friends, and I know if you’re here, you feel the same. Chickens aren’t just farm animals; they’re part of the family, and their health is a priority A well-thought-out diet is the cornerstone of their vitality. While commercial feed provides the basics, treats can enhance their nutritional intake and, yes, even their mood. I’ve spent time learning what makes chickens thrive. They have specific dietary needs that mimic their natural foraging behavior. Greens, insects, and seeds aren’t just snacks; they’re part of their ideal pantry. A happy fl ..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 behaviors signal their comfort levels and can affect their laying patterns. When chickens are content, they’re more likely to lay consistently and provide eggs that are of a higher grade. So, paying attention to their living conditions isn’t just good eth ..read more

Chickens require a reliable source of clean water to thrive. It’s not an overstatement to say that water is the lifeblood of your poultry’s well-being. A consistent water supply doesn’t just quench their thirst; it directly affects their overall health and egg production. Several factors can influence the actual water needs of your flock. For example, the climate in which you raise your chickens plays a significant role. Hotter climates or warmer seasons demand higher water consumption. Similarly, larger flocks and chickens at different life stages have varying needs. The bottom line is that ..read more

I’m often struck by the growing number of people who choose to keep chickens. Is it possible that people are becoming interested in personal sustainability instead of letting grocery stores and vending machines rule their lives? I doubt it, but one can hope. Chicken keeping can be deeply rewarding, offering a unique combination of benefits that range from the practicality of food production to the joy of connecting with nature. Add a vegetable garden into the mix, and your meals will be flavored with pride of accomplishment and sprinkled with healthfulness. However, as with any pet care, keep ..read more

In this post, I’ll discuss waterers and dry feed feeders and why it’s important to provide a feeder that your chickens can access easily and safely to get the nutrition and hydration they need to thrive. When you’re responsible for a flock, you realize quickly that there is a lot more to it than providing a bowl for them to feast from. “Chickens” and “manners” are antonyms in my dictionary. Most animals don’t eat where they poop, but chickens are definitely an exception Feeders also play a role in chickens’ health and egg production. An open feeder is an invitation for disease spread, and sic ..read more

  This is a short post about the purpose of chicken bedding. It’s 100% nonsense-free, and that’s why it’s so short. It’s not just about keeping your chickens comfortable—although that’s certainly a big part of it. Bedding has three main purposes in coop management. It absorbs moisture, reduces odors, and helps manage waste, crucial for maintaining a clean environment for your birds. Good bedding minimizes the risk of respiratory issues, pests, and the spread of disease – issues that are often overlooked but are incredibly significant. Prevention is better rather than cure. Now, let’s tal ..read more