Search found 16 matches

by CoopCaretaker
Sun Mar 02, 2025 1:31 am
Forum: Health and Wellness
Topic: Strange Hiccup Sounds from My 20-Week-Old Australorp
Replies: 10
Views: 23687

Re: Strange Hiccup Sounds from My 20-Week-Old Australorp

If she's active and eating normally tomorrow, she's probably fine. If you notice coughing, swelling, or discharge, it might be worth investigating further.
by CoopCaretaker
Wed Feb 26, 2025 2:13 pm
Forum: Flock Journals
Topic: Chicken Math Got Me! How Did Your Flock Grow?
Replies: 15
Views: 16481

Re: Chicken Math Got Me! How Did Your Flock Grow?

My first 3 hens were pets. Now I have a whole flock and fresh eggs daily!
by CoopCaretaker
Sat Feb 22, 2025 7:49 pm
Forum: Health and Wellness
Topic: Hen Losing Feathers & Signs of Injury Need Advice!
Replies: 11
Views: 24291

Re: Hen Losing Feathers & Signs of Injury Need Advice!

Some breeds are more prone to feather picking. If it's behavioral, increasing space, adding perches, and distracting them with treats or foraging activities may help.
by CoopCaretaker
Sun Feb 16, 2025 12:49 pm
Forum: Raising Baby Chicks
Topic: Concerned About Chick with Eyes Sealing Shut Every Morning
Replies: 13
Views: 29879

Re: Concerned About Chick with Eyes Sealing Shut Every Morning

Sometimes weaker chicks struggle with minor infections more than others. She might just need a little extra support, but keep a close watch for worsening symptoms.
by CoopCaretaker
Fri Feb 14, 2025 3:23 pm
Forum: Free-Range vs. Confined
Topic: Should My Chickens Free-Range in the Rain?
Replies: 17
Views: 15455

Re: Should My Chickens Free-Range in the Rain?

I wouldn't worry too much about them free-ranging in the rain. Chickens naturally prefer to stay dry, but they'll often go outside in light rain or showers. If they have access to shelter, they should be fine. Just make sure there's no standing water or cold drafts in their shelter.
by CoopCaretaker
Thu Feb 13, 2025 8:27 pm
Forum: Planning Your Coop
Topic: Planning My Breeding Pens Best Rooster & Hen Combos for Unique Hybrids?
Replies: 236
Views: 186525

Re: Planning My Breeding Pens Best Rooster & Hen Combos for Unique Hybrids?


Hello, fellow chicken enthusiasts!

Im in the early stages of designing three breeding pens, and Id love to get your insights on a breeding setup Im considering. My goal is to have one rooster in each pen covering two different breeds of hens. This way, I can hatch both purebred chicks and unique ...
by CoopCaretaker
Sat Feb 08, 2025 9:36 pm
Forum: Behavior and Training
Topic: Help with Integrating a Chicken Back into the Flock After Bullying
Replies: 238
Views: 22887

Re: Help with Integrating a Chicken Back into the Flock After Bullying

Sounds like the Red might be a bit of a bully. One thing you could try is separating the aggressive chicken for a short time (a couple of hours) to reset the pecking order. That gives the Leghorn a chance to feel safer and reduces the Red's dominance. Once you put the Red back in, it might reset the ...
by CoopCaretaker
Fri Feb 07, 2025 9:39 am
Forum: Planning Your Coop
Topic: Is Sand a Good Bedding Option for My Coop in Freezing Weather?
Replies: 19
Views: 13277

Re: Is Sand a Good Bedding Option for My Coop in Freezing Weather?

If you live in a wet climate, sand might not be the best choice since it can hold moisture and lead to frostbite issues. Dry bedding like straw or wood pellets could be a better winter option.
by CoopCaretaker
Fri Feb 07, 2025 7:13 am
Forum: Cleaning and Sanitation
Topic: Is My Silkie Hen Cold or Broody? What Should I Do?
Replies: 12
Views: 12438

Re: Is My Silkie Hen Cold or Broody? What Should I Do?

It's very likely she's broody. Silkies are notorious for their broodiness, and they can act very differently when in that state. Hissing and sitting on eggs (even if they're not hers) is a clear sign. I would try not to disturb her too much. If you're concerned about the cold, the heat plate should ...
by CoopCaretaker
Fri Feb 07, 2025 7:09 am
Forum: Integrating Poultry with Gardening
Topic: Concern About Overusing Composted Chicken Manure in the Garden
Replies: 345
Views: 28828

Re: Concern About Overusing Composted Chicken Manure in the Garden

It's possible you've over-applied, especially if you notice yellowing grass. Chicken manure is high in nitrogen, and too much can burn plants or cause nutrient imbalances. I'd recommend getting a soil test to confirm, but in the meantime, water the area well to help dilute the excess nutrients.