Backyard Fowl Keepers

Always good to double-check with a better light! First-time incubation can be tricky, but you're learning. Fingers crossed for a good hatch!

A warm compress is a great short-term fix, but if her eyes are sealing shut daily, I'd be concerned about a possible bacterial infection or early respiratory issue. Look for other signs like labored breathing, nasal discharge, or lethargy. If it's just eye irritation, keeping her brooder extra clean ...

A squirrel kept raiding my nesting boxes. Never thought they'd go after eggs.

Chickens have some odd little behaviors sometimes! As long as she's acting normal otherwise, I wouldn't worry too much. Keep an eye on her, but it's likely just a temporary thing.

This is totally normal! Some hens fixate on a certain spot and won't lay anywhere else. You might have to work with her preferences rather than against them.

The safety of using septic lagoon duckweed depends on what's in your household waste. If you use strong cleaning chemicals, pharmaceuticals, or antibacterial soaps, those can end up in the lagoon and be absorbed by the duckweed. Even if the water looks clean, you can't see bacteria or chemical ...

Im getting six chicks this spring but cant decide between Buff Orpingtons and Black Australorps. I want friendly, heat-tolerant birds. Orpingtons are super sweet but struggle with heat, while Australorps are friendly and handle heat better. My boyfriend says to get three of each, but Id prefer just ...

Ive been looking into different treat options for my flock and was wondering about feeding rice. Ive heard mixed opinions on whether its safe for chickens to eat cooked or uncooked rice. Some people say its perfectly fine, while others claim it can cause digestive issues or even crop problems ...

It's really hit or miss with grafting chicks onto a broody hen. I've found that hens who have never raised chicks are sometimes not as keen, so it might take a second attempt. Try doing it in the middle of the night and make sure she's calm and not stressed out.

6' is worth it. Even if it doesn't match exactly, the added height will save you from potential escapees and the headache of chasing them down later.