Backyard Fowl Keepers

A hawk once got outmatched by my hens , they fought it off and won!

If you're already fencing the top of the garden, maybe make a fully enclosed run leading out instead of tunnels? That might simplify things and reduce escape risks.

Australorps tend to be more active foragers, while Orpingtons are more laid-back. If you want a more hands-on experience with your flock, Orpingtons are perfect. If you prefer low-maintenance birds that still have good temperaments, Australorps win.

If you want something sustainable but still meaty, consider a Freedom Ranger or Red Ranger breeding project. They don't grow as fast as Cornish Cross but are more resilient and easier to breed.

While chickens enjoy fatty scraps, fryer oil has likely undergone chemical changes that make it less ideal. If you're looking for high-energy winter supplements, try feeding plain cooked eggs, mealworms, or scratch grains instead. These options support their health without unwanted additives.

A soccer net might keep aerial predators out, but raccoons and other climbers could easily chew or tear through it. I'd go with welded wire or hardware cloth for better security.

If she's eating and drinking fine but still seems off, I'd look into worms. A worm load could cause weakness and irritation around the vent area, making her a target for pecking.

I would recommend cutting back on the DE or wood ash, as they can be too dusty. Instead, try adding a bit of peat moss or even some dried herbs like lavender to make it more comfortable. You can also mix a little bit of sand to help with dust control.

I'd recommend keeping a close eye on air cell size. If it's too small, lower the humidity. If it's too large, increase it slightly. That's a more reliable way to monitor than just going by numbers.

First of all, I'm impressed with her resilience! It's fantastic that she's walking around. For feeding, you might want to try offering her scrambled eggs or yogurt as they are both easy for chickens to digest and high in protein. You could also try kitten formula, but make sure it's specifically for ...