Backyard Fowl Keepers

Our ducks are the real MVPs when it comes to garden pest control. We started with one Pekin, and I was amazed at how quickly she eliminated the slug problem in our lettuce beds. Ducks are gentle foragers , they don't scratch like chickens, and they rarely damage plants while they hunt for bugs. That ...

Unfortunately, some roosters are just naturally aggressive due to genetics or past experiences. If you really want to keep him, you could try putting him in a separate pen or run to limit his ability to attack you. That way, you can still enjoy having him around without the constant risk of injury ...

I tried a purely electric setup, and while it worked for foxes, badgers still dug under it. They didn't respect the shock as much as I hoped. If you go electric-only, bury a mesh apron outward to discourage digging. Chain link provides extra security and peace of mind. Another tip,make sure your ...

If they seem healthy and are eating well, I wouldn't stress too much. Just enjoy the anticipation, soon enough, you'll have more eggs than you know what to do with!

You can gently wipe her down with a wet cloth to remove any sticky mess, but avoid submerging her. If the weather is warm enough, she'll likely dry off quickly. If the mess is more severe, consider cleaning her thoroughly and watching how she responds afterward.

Since she's standing still and lethargic, her body is probably weak from dehydration. Along with Corid, try offering water mixed with electrolytes and a bit of honey for energy.

I wouldn't stress too much unless it becomes a pattern. Fly larvae have a lot of fat and protein, so while it's okay every once in a while, too much could lead to weight issues or even liver problems. Be sure to get back to their normal balanced diet!

If she's acting fine otherwise, I'd lean toward a diet tweak or a minor stress event. Make sure she's getting enough sunlight, as vitamin D helps with calcium absorption. Maybe offer some high-calcium greens like kale or spinach, too.

I used a metal shipping container for a chicken coop last year and definitely ran into issues with ventilation. The metal gets cold in the winter and can trap heat in the summer. I recommend placing a mix of fixed and adjustable vents, with the higher ones letting the hot, moist air escape. I also ...

Chickens are surprisingly cold-hardy, but poor air quality can harm them quickly. Always prioritize ventilation over sealing the coop completely.