Backyard Fowl Keepers

Have you checked his environment? Sometimes dust or ammonia buildup can trigger symptoms that look like an infection.

Your best bet is to identify what's growing before adding anything new. Some weeds are harmless, while others can be dangerous. Hairy vetch can cause issues in livestock but usually isn't a problem for poultry. However, plants like hemlock, perilla mint, and nightshade should be removed if found. A ...

I had the same thing happen with my RIRs! Two started at 5 months, and the others didn't lay until almost 6 months. It all evened out in the end.

I would recommend leaving the seeds in your compost. As long as they're broken down properly in the composting process, they shouldn't cause any issues. Just make sure your compost gets hot enough to break them down. If you're worried, you could sift out large seeds or grains, but most of the time ...

Instead of a weed barrier, consider putting down a thick layer of straw or wood chips. It'll cushion the landing and help with drainage.

I learned to store feed off the ground after losing a batch to moisture. Now I use wooden pallets and airtight containers.

My chickens started to slow down in their growth around 5-6 months old. Now, at 8 months, they're mostly full-grown, but they are still filling out a little. I think it's normal for the combs and feathers to get fuller over time. I've heard that the first 6 months is when most of their growth happens.

My hens do the same thing! Once they pick a spot, it's almost impossible to convince them otherwise. You could try gradually moving the pot closer to the coop and see if she adjusts.

I keep a small whiteboard with the hen's names and write down when they lay. It's easy to erase and update.

Ive used the same standard chick waterer for multiple broods without issues, but this time my 4-day-old chicks keep ending up soaked! The waterer is upright but completely empty, and I cant figure out how theyre spilling it. Its happened four times now! I even tried switching containers and taping ...