Backyard Fowl Keepers

It sounds like your eggs are in decent shape for shipped eggs! If none of the air cells are floating freely, you can start turning after a day or two. Hand-turning is a good choice, as it allows you to be more gentle. I recommend tilting just slightly at first, then increasing the angle over time ...

Stress or excitement before bedtime can cause weird noises. Watch for other symptoms, but she might just be settling in.

I'm really worried about my hen and could use some advice. She has been acting lethargic all day, standing in one spot, looking fluffed up, and not engaging much with the rest of the flock. She is usually active and alert, so this is a big change in behavior.

A little while ago, I checked on her ...

Hi everyone,

I have a 1.5-year-old Olive Egger who has always been a reliable layer, giving me large green eggs in the nesting boxuntil last week. Suddenly, I found two of her eggs under the roosting bar with extremely soft shells. After that, she stopped laying completely for a full week. Then ...

No worries! Chickens don't need artificial light unless you're using it for egg production. As long as they can see to roost before sundown, they'll manage just fine.

Since the veins are still carrying blood, the chick is still alive but possibly struggling. Some eggs take longer, especially if incubation temps were slightly lower. Your best bet is to keep the humidity up and avoid interfering more. If the chick has pipped internally but hasn't broken through, it ...

I personally use a mix of sifted dirt, sand, and a bit of DE (diatomaceous earth). It's a great, natural way to help keep their skin healthy. Make sure the DE is food-grade and not overused, as too much can be harmful if inhaled. Keeping the dust bath in a low-sided container helps control mess ...

The hen's bond with her chicks is based on instinct rather than deep emotion. She'll likely cluck and call for them for a short time but will refocus on raising the rest. If you provide warmth, security, and regular interaction, the chicks will imprint on you easily. Just be prepared to mimic some ...

You'll be able to tell them apart quickly,the Cornish Cross will be way bigger by week 3.

Adding more soil could work, but mulch or deep litter might be a better long-term fix. They'll insulate the ground and prevent future shifting.