Search found 25 matches

by BroodMistress
Thu Feb 27, 2025 11:00 pm
Forum: Brooding Chicks
Topic: Fresh Herbs in the Brooder Any Suggestions?
Replies: 8
Views: 25653

Re: Fresh Herbs in the Brooder Any Suggestions?

I've done this with great results! My chicks particularly love picking at rosemary and dill. I also dry some herbs and mix them into bedding for a longer-lasting effect.
by BroodMistress
Wed Feb 26, 2025 2:00 pm
Forum: Lessons Learned
Topic: The Compost Catastrophe: A Chicken Keepers Lesson in Patience
Replies: 11
Views: 21234

Re: The Compost Catastrophe: A Chicken Keepers Lesson in Patience

I've noticed in my piles that anything deeper than two feet takes much longer to break down. The top layers tend to compost faster because they have better airflow. Maybe try shallower piles or more frequent turning?
by BroodMistress
Wed Feb 26, 2025 9:35 am
Forum: Coop Bedding Choices & Care
Topic: Best Setup Under Roosting Bars Poop Board, Trough, or Something Else?
Replies: 7
Views: 276602

Re: Best Setup Under Roosting Bars Poop Board, Trough, or Something Else?


Hi everyone,

After a long winter of using a low-to-the-ground chicken tractor, Im realizing how much better a walk-in coop space would be. Im planning out the interior and trying to decide the best setup under the roosting bars.

I know poop boards are a popular option, but I had another idea ...
by BroodMistress
Wed Feb 26, 2025 9:26 am
Forum: Getting Started with Backyard Chickens
Topic: The Perfect Backyard Chicken Help Me Decide!
Replies: 231
Views: 25866

Re: The Perfect Backyard Chicken Help Me Decide!

Brahmas are an excellent option if you don't mind a slightly larger bird. They're super calm and friendly, making them great backyard companions. While they do get big, their gentle nature makes them easy to handle, and they're not as flighty as some bantams. Plus, their feathered feet add extra ...
by BroodMistress
Wed Feb 26, 2025 8:59 am
Forum: Planning Your Coop
Topic: Best Roosting Bar Shape for Chickens?
Replies: 9
Views: 26467

Re: Best Roosting Bar Shape for Chickens?

A 2x4 laid flat is widely recommended because it allows chickens to rest their feet fully, preventing curling and frostbite in cold weather. Wild birds grip branches, but chickens aren't built the same way. Their feet do better on a flat surface, reducing strain and balancing their weight more ...
by BroodMistress
Tue Feb 18, 2025 1:18 am
Forum: Success Stories
Topic: From Struggling Flock to Thriving Chickens: My Success Story with Dried Black Soldier Fly Larvae
Replies: 13
Views: 76581

Re: From Struggling Flock to Thriving Chickens: My Success Story with Dried Black Soldier Fly Larvae

I used to rely heavily on mealworms for my flock, but ever since I switched to BSFL, I've noticed a big improvement. They contain more calcium and are better suited for long-term feeding, especially for laying hens. I also appreciate that BSFL supports sustainable farming practices by repurposing ...
by BroodMistress
Sun Feb 16, 2025 1:19 pm
Forum: Behavior and Training
Topic: 8-Month-Old Marans Still Not Laying
Replies: 19
Views: 22605

Re: 8-Month-Old Marans Still Not Laying


Hey everyone!

Ive always wanted to have Black Copper Marans, so when I found a local breeder last spring through a mutual friend, I jumped at the chance! I ended up getting three Black Copper Marans and three Blue Copper Marans, and theyve been such a great addition to my flock.

Theyre now about ...
by BroodMistress
Thu Feb 13, 2025 8:39 am
Forum: Behavior and Training
Topic: Stubborn Hen Wont Lay in the Coop, Whats Going On?
Replies: 232
Views: 24028

Re: Stubborn Hen Wont Lay in the Coop, Whats Going On?


Yesterday was an exciting daymy Australorp laid her very first egg! I found her inside an old, large pot, looking a bit awkward. Thinking she was stuck, I gently lifted her out, and to my surprise, she laid the egg right there on the ground before wandering off like nothing happened.

This morning ...
by BroodMistress
Wed Feb 12, 2025 7:26 am
Forum: Flock Journals
Topic: A Fresh Start: Building My Dream Coop from the Ground Up
Replies: 7
Views: 11141

Re: A Fresh Start: Building My Dream Coop from the Ground Up

Sounds like an exciting new start! Jersey Giants are a great choice, but you might also look into Buckeyes, they're cold-hardy and good foragers.
by BroodMistress
Tue Feb 11, 2025 4:58 pm
Forum: Feeding and Nutrition
Topic: Balancing Oats in Layer Feed, How Much Is Too Much?
Replies: 14
Views: 24037

Re: Balancing Oats in Layer Feed, How Much Is Too Much?

Oats are great for winter warmth, but I've found they slow down digestion a little. If you're feeding a lot, watch for any signs of sluggish crops or slow digestion.