Backyard Fowl Keepers

Free pallets and zip ties made my run super affordable! Just add wire fencing and you've got a solid enclosure.

Hello everyone,

Im worried about my almost 3-year-old Buff Orpington rooster. Hes always been healthy and active, but recently, Ive noticed some concerning changes. His comb has become floppy and has developed purplish-gray patches. Additionally, he seems less energetic and isnt as interested in ...

My friend has a broody hen who successfully hatched a clutch of eggs. She got some of the eggs from another friend and two from me. The hen now has six healthy chicks, and my friend plans to give them all away once theyre older. She offered to let me take my two chicks while theyre still little so ...

If you want flexibility, go for a door with both a timer and a light sensor. My Omlet Autodoor adjusts based on daylight, but I can also set specific times. It's reliable even in bad weather, and the battery lasts forever. Just make sure your coop has enough clearance for the door to slide properly ...

Try reptile sand from pet stores. It's clean, dust-free, and easy to manage indoors. Your chicks will love it!

If you want winter layers with colorful eggs, check out Easter Eggers and Black Copper Marans. Easter Eggers give you blues and greens, while Marans lay dark chocolate eggs. Both handle cold well!

Consider using colored leg bands on the layers. It'll make sorting much easier later on.

One thing to check, does the paint contain antifungal or antibacterial agents? Some of those additives can be harmful to poultry. If it's just basic paint, you should be fine!

With shipped eggs, patience is key. Since your air cells aren't completely detached, you can start turning after about 24-48 hours. Keep them upright and tilt side to side rather than laying them flat right away. I usually rotate mine just a little more each day until they can handle full turns ...

Every time we change out our deep fryer oil, we toss itbut what if the chickens could enjoy it instead? I was thinking of drizzling some over bread scraps as a treat. Has anyone tried this? Is it safe for them, or should I steer clear?