Backyard Fowl Keepers

I use a mix of coarse sand and wood shavings. The sand helps with drainage, and the shavings add some organic matter to scratch in. Works great in all seasons!

Hey everyone!

Ive always wanted to have Black Copper Marans, so when I found a local breeder last spring through a mutual friend, I jumped at the chance! I ended up getting three Black Copper Marans and three Blue Copper Marans, and theyve been such a great addition to my flock.

Theyre now about ...

So, whats the strangest, funniest, or most unexpected predator youve had to deal with? And how did you handle it?

I've kept mine behind a 5' fence for years with no issues. As long as they have enough to do and no major predators lurking, they probably won't bother testing it.

It sounds like a respiratory infection that has led to a sinus abscess. If you can't get to a vet, try flushing the area with saline, applying warm compresses, and using antibiotics like Tylan or Baytril. If the swelling is hard, it may need to be drained carefully.

The type of roost depends on your chickens' size and breed. Bantams and smaller birds may be fine with a rounded perch, but larger breeds like Orpingtons or Brahmas benefit from a flat 2x4. Flat surfaces help evenly distribute weight, reducing foot strain and injury risks. If you have the space ...

The yellowing might be a sign that the manure is too fresh or applied too heavily. If the grass isn't too far gone, I would try watering the area well and waiting to see if the plants bounce back. For future reference, applying chicken manure in moderation is key.

It sounds like you'd benefit from a small-scale breeding program. Start with a breeding trio or quartet, and hatch eggs every couple of weeks. That way, you'll have a staggered rotation of quail reaching processing size at different times, keeping fresh meat available without storing too much in the ...

It sounds like you're doing well with the ventilation, but condensation can still happen in plastic. You could try using a different heat source like a ceramic heater, which won't add as much moisture. If you stick with the lamp, increasing airflow might help, but just be cautious not to make it too ...

Orpingtons will be your best bet for a cuddly, friendly flock. They do need some extra heat protection, but it sounds like you've already planned for that!