Search found 19 matches

by PeckingPal
Sat Mar 01, 2025 9:58 pm
Forum: Planning Your Coop
Topic: Best Roosting Bar Shape for Chickens?
Replies: 9
Views: 26467

Re: Best Roosting Bar Shape for Chickens?

A flat board mimics the way chickens naturally rest on the ground, making it more comfortable than a rounded roost. It also helps prevent foot issues like bumblefoot.
by PeckingPal
Wed Feb 26, 2025 2:17 pm
Forum: Planning Your Coop
Topic: Using a Metal Shipping Container as a Chicken Coop
Replies: 18
Views: 13478

Re: Using a Metal Shipping Container as a Chicken Coop

Ventilation in a metal shipping container coop is important because, without it, you can end up with moisture problems, especially in a damp climate. I,d recommend at least 1 square foot of ventilation per bird, with high vents to let the warm air escape. In the Pacific Northwest, I,d go even higher ...
by PeckingPal
Wed Feb 26, 2025 8:14 am
Forum: Success Stories
Topic: From Struggling Flock to Thriving Chickens: My Success Story with Dried Black Soldier Fly Larvae
Replies: 13
Views: 76581

Re: From Struggling Flock to Thriving Chickens: My Success Story with Dried Black Soldier Fly Larvae

I was hesitant to try BSFL at first, but my birds love them! The digestibility and amino acid profile make them a superior feed compared to traditional options. Plus, it reduces my reliance on commercial feed, saving money in the long run.
by PeckingPal
Sun Feb 23, 2025 12:29 am
Forum: Behavior and Training
Topic: Clipped Wings, but My Hens Are Still Flying Over the FenceWhat Went Wrong?
Replies: 11
Views: 31404

Re: Clipped Wings, but My Hens Are Still Flying Over the FenceWhat Went Wrong?

It's possible they've built up enough muscle to compensate for the clipped wing. A fresh trim should help, but also watch for any objects they might be using for a boost.
by PeckingPal
Sat Feb 22, 2025 8:44 pm
Forum: Behavior and Training
Topic: When Rooster Rivalry Turns Bloody What Can I Do?
Replies: 9
Views: 12703

Re: When Rooster Rivalry Turns Bloody What Can I Do?

If he's aggressive toward humans too, that's another reason to rehome him. If it's just the other roosters, a bachelor flock setup might work.215 Buff Orpingtons are super friendly and affectionate! If you can keep them cool in summer, they're a great choice.
by PeckingPal
Thu Feb 20, 2025 5:13 pm
Forum: Brooding Chicks
Topic: Brooder Plate or Heat Lamp, Which One Should I Use?
Replies: 11
Views: 25851

Re: Brooder Plate or Heat Lamp, Which One Should I Use?

I use the Premier 1 brooder plate. It's adjustable and keeps chicks warm without overheating them. Works perfectly even in a cooler space!
by PeckingPal
Mon Feb 17, 2025 3:43 am
Forum: Predators and Pests
Topic: Worming a Large Mixed Flock Routine or Only When Needed?
Replies: 15
Views: 413148

Re: Worming a Large Mixed Flock Routine or Only When Needed?

If you're hesitant to use chemical dewormers, natural methods like pumpkin seeds, garlic, and oregano might help keep the worm load manageable over time.
by PeckingPal
Mon Feb 17, 2025 3:25 am
Forum: Chicken Run Care & Maintenance
Topic: Secure Cover and Barrier Options for Quarantine Run
Replies: 217
Views: 27055

Re: Secure Cover and Barrier Options for Quarantine Run

A net might help keep hawks out, but it won't stop raccoons from climbing in. You might want to use hardware cloth or welded wire for better security.
by PeckingPal
Tue Feb 11, 2025 2:35 pm
Forum: Behavior and Training
Topic: Bantam Tapping Her Feet What Could It Mean?
Replies: 15
Views: 18182

Re: Bantam Tapping Her Feet What Could It Mean?

My Silkie did something similar when she was indoors for a few weeks. I think she was adjusting to the different flooring-she only did it on smooth surfaces. Could your bantam be reacting to a different surface texture?
by PeckingPal
Tue Feb 11, 2025 3:35 am
Forum: Behavior and Training
Topic: Inconsistent Laying in My Rhode Island Reds
Replies: 239
Views: 24980

Re: Inconsistent Laying in My Rhode Island Reds

Are their combs and wattles getting redder? That's usually a sign they're close to laying. If they're still pale, they probably need more time.