Backyard Fowl Keepers

I have 24 indoor brooder-raised chicks (9, 6, and 2 weeks old) that haven't been vaccinated. I have both Mareks and fowl pox vaccines. Since Mareks is usually given at hatch and fowl pox at 8 weeks, can I give both live vaccines at the same time, or should I space them out? If so, how long should I ...

I let mine free-range in the garden during fall and winter. They help clear out pests and fertilize the soil for spring.

Hello everyone! Im a first-time chicken keeper, and Im in the process of setting up for my first flock. Ill be getting chickens in about a month, and Ive been feeling a bit overwhelmed by all the conflicting advice on the internet. Ive built a custom chicken coop thats 4 feet wide, 4 feet deep ...

It's completely normal for Marans to be late bloomers! They often don't start laying until around 9–10 months, sometimes even later. They take their time, but the dark eggs will be worth the wait!

It could be due to the seasonal change or the hen's body readjusting after her winter break. As long as there are no other symptoms like lethargy, loss of appetite, or changes in behavior, I wouldn't worry. If the tiny eggs continue for a while or if you notice any other issues, you might want to ...

I've used vinegar and water for cleaning and found it effective. I've also used bleach diluted in a ratio of 1:10, but it's important to let it air out for a few hours. For bedding, the deep litter method can work well as long as you maintain a thick layer. If they keep pushing the bedding around ...

For large flocks, a medicated feed can be a simple solution. You can add a dewormer to their regular feed, and they'll ingest it without you needing to catch them. Just be sure to follow the dosage instructions carefully based on your flock's size.

The backslopping method usually works well for me, but I always rinse my bucket every few days to prevent off-flavors from developing. Maybe a different fermentation container would help?

The seeds in the chicken run will likely get eaten, or they'll be composted over time. If you're worried about the compost being too “hot” or not breaking down properly, consider turning it more often or adding more carbon material like leaves or straw to balance it out.

Poor girl! It could be that she's simply constipated or dealing with a dietary issue. I'd try to clean her vent gently with warm water, then check if the poop is stuck or if there's any unusual blockage. If this keeps happening, you might want to examine her diet.