Backyard Fowl Keepers

What an exciting lineup! I've raised Swedish Flower Hens and Marans before, and they are both fantastic breeds. The Swedish Flowers are particularly hardy, independent foragers, and have great personalities. My Marans, on the other hand, were a bit more reserved but laid the most gorgeous dark ...

After years of saying Id never raise meat birds, Ive decided to take the plunge!
This summer, Ill be starting project Do your best not to get attached to meat birds. I plan to bring home ten Cornish Cross chicks.
Since this is my first time raising meat birds, I want to make sure I do it right ...

Consider how much space they have. If they feel cramped, they'll be more likely to try flying over. More room = less motivation to escape!

My neighbors, who have chickens, told me that I shouldnt use a round roosting bar because chickens prefer a flat surface. I want to make sure my flock has the most comfortable and safe roosting setup. I've seen people use everything from wooden dowels to 2x4s laid flat, but Im not sure whats ...

I have a broody hen whos been sitting on 3 eggs for a week. Ive been leaving her alone to do her thing, making sure shes eating and pooping, but today I was shocked to find 9 eggs in her nestshed been sneaking in more while brooding.

I candled the eggs, and most were bad, with only one showing a ...

Hello everyone,

I never expected to have four roosters, but here we are. We started with five, but one mysteriously vanished a month agono signs of struggle, no blood, just gone. Now, at around 8 months old, the remaining roosters are beginning to show their true personalities, and its becoming a ...

I follow a general treat guideline: soft fruits/veggies at 3-4 weeks, small seeds at 6-8 weeks, and harder items (like whole sunflower seeds) after 10 weeks. Chicks develop their digestive system gradually, so introducing the right foods at the right time is important. If you're unsure, try crushing ...

Don't worry too much! Chickens have pretty strong digestive systems and can handle a variety of food, but if it happens often, the extra fat could cause some health issues like obesity. Keep their diet balanced with their regular feed, and it should be fine.

Diatomaceous earth (DE) is a popular natural option. Dust it directly on the birds and in their dust bathing areas. Just be careful not to let them inhale too much, as it can irritate their lungs.

I haven't had Bielefelders, but my Brahmas also eat a ton and get really big. I'd be curious to know if anyone else has seen metabolic issues in heavy breeds.