Backyard Fowl Keepers

Your setup is coming along well! However, chicken wire won't stop predators like raccoons or dogs. Hardware cloth is much stronger and more reliable. If cost is a concern, you can use a mix,hardware cloth for the lower sections and chicken wire on top. Also, consider securing the wire skirting with ...

It sounds like a normal adjustment. Sometimes when hens resume laying after a break, the first eggs are smaller. If the tiny eggs persist for a long time or if she starts showing signs of illness, then it might be a sign to look deeper into her health, but for now, I wouldn't be overly concerned.

Could you create a split-path system? One tunnel for going out and another for returning to prevent bottlenecks and discourage them from wandering back into the garden.

It sounds like your birds have some serious determination! You might need to reclip their wings, ensuring you trim enough of the primary feathers. Also, some breeds are just naturally better fliers,Marans can be surprisingly strong!

Some people mix a little clean oil into winter feed, but fryer oil is tricky,was it used for cooking heavily seasoned or breaded foods? If so, it's best avoided. Safer alternatives include plain suet or flaxseed meal for extra calories.

A pale comb means youth, while a red, developed comb suggests maturity. Laying hens usually have bright red combs.

Constant white light can stress chicks and disrupt sleep. Red bulbs are better, but a heat plate is ideal,it lets chicks self-regulate their warmth, similar to being under a hen. In my experience, chicks raised with heat plates are healthier and less likely to develop aggressive behaviors.

I have two mottled Java pullets and two mottled Java cockerels that I purchased as chicks from a local breeder at the beginning of June. Now that theyre almost five months old, Im starting to question whether their mottling pattern is developing as it should.

The pullets are completely black ...

I admire your resourcefulness! Freezing is easiest, but expect a mushy texture when thawed. Boiling first can help firm them up, making handling easier. Sun-drying is possible with enough airflow and protection. If dehydration is too slow, you might try baking them on low heat in an outdoor grill ...