Search found 17 matches

by HatcheryHiker
Wed Mar 05, 2025 1:42 am
Forum: Predators and Pests
Topic: Worming a Large Mixed Flock Routine or Only When Needed?
Replies: 15
Views: 413149

Re: Worming a Large Mixed Flock Routine or Only When Needed?


I have a large mixed flock consisting of chickens, ducks, geese, and two turkeys. Im trying to figure out the best approach for worming. Do you worm your flock regularly as a preventative measure, or do you only treat when you see symptoms?

Right now, I dont see any obvious signs of ...
by HatcheryHiker
Tue Mar 04, 2025 8:27 pm
Forum: Feeding and Nutrition
Topic: Alternative High-Protein Feed for Cooler Climates?
Replies: 14
Views: 32396

Re: Alternative High-Protein Feed for Cooler Climates?


I recently read about a farm that replaced 75% of its chicken feed with Azolla, a fast-growing aquatic plant, and saw improved egg production and stronger shells. It sounds like an amazing supplement!

I keep a flock of 100 layers and plan to expand this year, so Id love to find a similar feed ...
by HatcheryHiker
Sat Mar 01, 2025 7:52 pm
Forum: Brooding Chicks
Topic: Need Help with Brooding, Feeding, and Introducing Chicks to My Flock!
Replies: 9
Views: 5166

Re: Need Help with Brooding, Feeding, and Introducing Chicks to My Flock!

If space is tight, a large dog crate makes a great transition brooder.
by HatcheryHiker
Thu Feb 27, 2025 11:09 pm
Forum: Coop Bedding Choices & Care
Topic: Is My Mulch Safe for Deep Litter?
Replies: 236
Views: 35717

Re: Is My Mulch Safe for Deep Litter?

Mulch is great for deep litter, but don't rely on just one material. Adding dried leaves, straw, or pine shavings can improve balance and prevent compaction, keeping things drier and reducing mold risk.
by HatcheryHiker
Sat Feb 22, 2025 6:29 pm
Forum: Incubation Tips & Guidance
Topic: Can You Hatch a Cracked Egg?
Replies: 13
Views: 37385

Re: Can You Hatch a Cracked Egg?


Ive heard you can fix a cracked egg with glue and still hatch it. Has anyone tried this? What kind of glue works best?

I just got a batch of shipped eggs, and many arrived cracked. Hoping to save someany advice?




I've experimented with sealing cracked eggs using beeswax and liquid bandage ...
by HatcheryHiker
Sat Feb 22, 2025 5:03 am
Forum: Integrating Poultry with Gardening
Topic: Letting Chickens in the Garden Helpful or Harmful?
Replies: 11
Views: 25039

Re: Letting Chickens in the Garden Helpful or Harmful?

I let my hens in after harvesting, but never during the main growing season. They'd eat everything in sight otherwise!
by HatcheryHiker
Tue Feb 18, 2025 2:03 am
Forum: Health and Wellness
Topic: Why Do My Young Chicks Have White or Pale Feet and Toes?
Replies: 18
Views: 17381

Re: Why Do My Young Chicks Have White or Pale Feet and Toes?

Check for any signs of foot injuries or scaly leg mites. Though rare in young chicks, infections or mites can sometimes affect circulation, leading to pale or discolored feet.
by HatcheryHiker
Tue Feb 11, 2025 11:30 pm
Forum: Pets and Other Animals
Topic: Aggressive Quail Hen Acting Like a Rooster?!
Replies: 235
Views: 421653

Re: Aggressive Quail Hen Acting Like a Rooster?!

I've had a few bold quail hens, and they often showed this kind of behavior when they were at peak laying season. It might be a mix of hormones and territorial instinct. If she has enough space, enrichment, and a peaceful flock, it's probably just her personality!
by HatcheryHiker
Tue Feb 11, 2025 7:20 pm
Forum: Emergency Situations
Topic: Should I Bandage My Chickens Injured Toe?
Replies: 234
Views: 363439

Re: Should I Bandage My Chickens Injured Toe?

A loose bandage with gauze and vet wrap might help keep it from breaking open again. Just be careful not to wrap too tight!
by HatcheryHiker
Mon Feb 10, 2025 3:10 pm
Forum: Incubation Tips & Guidance
Topic: Sexing Eggs Before Incubation Does This Method Really Work?
Replies: 14
Views: 19736

Re: Sexing Eggs Before Incubation Does This Method Really Work?

I've tried a similar method before, but I didn't track the results closely. Maybe I'll give it another go with proper record-keeping!