Are some of your chickens looking different than the others? Do you know how to determine, early on, if you are raising a pullet or a cockerel? Lets say you wanted to raise chickens for eggs and purchased some hatching eggs. Or, perhaps, you couldn't resist the fluffy little munchkins at the feed store this spring. In any event you now have chickens growing up in your backyard. You are feeding them and caring for their every need. But wait! Some of the chicks are … [Read more...]
What Herbs Keep Chickens Healthy?
Can herbs keep chickens healthy? Does herb use increase the immune response in the flock? The answer to both questions appears to be, yes! Chickens love herbs, so dosing them with these natural compounds is an easy task. My Top Herb Choices For Chicken Care If I could only grow a few herbs I would choose Mint, Oregano, Basil, Thyme, Lavender and Sage. As far as chicken keeping and animal care needs, Sage and Oregano are great for intestinal health and to ward off … [Read more...]
Honey Bees in Late Spring
Honey bees in late spring need a hive check to ensure that the new hives are thriving. No matter whether you start with a Nuc or a package with a queen, there are hives that do not do well. The queen may have died. The weather could have been all wrong. Often spring weather is unpredictable. If the early sources of pollen fail, the new hive may starve. In short, it is recommended that we take the time to check on a new hive after the first couple of … [Read more...]
Keep Your Chicken Coop Smelling Fresh
Here are five quick tips to help you keep your chicken coop smelling fresh. If your coop makes you hold your breath when you go in to collect eggs, think about how the chickens feel! It's not too hard to keep the coop clean and fresh, if you do a little bit of cleaning every few days. I am listing a few important basics for you. Keep Your Chicken Coop Smelling Fresh with These 5 Tips 1. Water and moisture are not your friend. If you slop or spill water when … [Read more...]
When Can Chicks Go Outside?
One of the top questions I am asked is when can chicks go outside. The need for warmth is key to a growing chick. The growing period is important and making adjustments at the right time is crucial to their future health and well being. The answer really depends on providing warmth, safety, food and water, where ever you house the brooder. The first weeks of life you are dealing with rather fragile beings. They require a very warm environment. Even if you have a shed, garage or coop with … [Read more...]
