Backyard Fowl Keepers

Three boxes should be enough, but keep an eye on crowding. If you notice a lot of traffic jams, consider adding a fourth later.

I've found that fermenting feeds with added yeast can sometimes produce a stronger smell, which turns some chickens off. Maybe try fermenting a yeast-free feed separately and see if they like it better.

I switched to a local, custom-milled feed that's cheaper than the store brand and has better ingredients. It might be worth checking what's available in your area.

My ISA Browns have been fantastic! They started laying early and have given me an egg almost every day since. If production is your priority, they're a great choice!

Deep litter is a great solution! Try layering wood chips, straw, and leaves. It's low maintenance and keeps the run floor soft year-round.

I had a similar experience when I adopted some older hens. They were light and scruffy, but after a few weeks of good nutrition, they plumped up. I fed them a mix of high-protein layer feed, soaked pellets, and occasional scrambled eggs. Be patient, and they'll likely improve!

A friend of mine has a quail hen with an attitude like Ive never seen before! She acts just like a roosterpuffing up, charging at anyone who comes near, and trying to peck through the cage bars. But heres the weird part: she only attacks humans, never her flockmates. She lives with two other hens ...