Backyard Fowl Keepers

This could be normal nighttime behavior, but it's great that you're paying close attention. Keep an eye out for coughing, nasal discharge, or lethargy. If she's eating and drinking well, it's likely not serious. Hiccups in chickens can sometimes be related to adjusting their crop, minor irritation ...

I wouldn't use pavers unless you plan to cover the entire run. Chickens love to dig, and they might get frustrated if they can't scratch around. You could try straw or hay, but be aware that it can get moldy in wet conditions.

A rogue goose showed up and chased my hens. We had to chase it off with a broom.

Hey everyone, I absolutely love roosters and want to keep all of mine if possible, but Ive run into a bit of a challenge.

I currently have 23 hens and 5 roosters. My main rooster is a bantam Cochin, second in command is a massive Brahma, and third is a bantam Old English. I also have two 4-month ...

If you plan to ship fertile eggs regularly, it's worth looking into NPIP certification. Many buyers prefer NPIP-tested eggs because it guarantees the flock is free from certain diseases. The process involves testing your birds and getting approval to ship across state lines. Some states also require ...

I used free pallets for the frame and cheap welded wire fencing. Sturdy, affordable, and keeps my flock safe!

How do you clean your hatching eggs before putting them in the incubator? Ive heard mixed advice some say to leave them alone, while others recommend cleaning to prevent bacteria. If you do clean them, what method works best without damaging the eggs or the bloom?

You could try gently parting their feathers to see if there are any small white spots underneath. Sometimes the mottling is there but just isn't as visible in juvenile feathers.

More space and visual barriers might help, but some aggressive roosters never calm down. Rehoming is a solid option.

Temperature fluctuations before setting eggs in the incubator can cause improper air sac formation. If you had them in a consistently warm space, early development could have started before incubation. That doesn't always mean failure, though,some embryos adapt. Keep checking and mark which ones ...