Infectious coryza is one of the most common bacterial diseases of backyard chickens. It is, in fact, the chicken version of the common cold. Avibacterium paragallinarum bacteria cause this respiratory disease. Like the common cold, infectious coryza is particularly prevalent in the fall and winter, especially in the southeastern and northeastern United States and in […]
The general recommendation regarding the right height for chicken nests is 18 to 20 inches above the floor. But that’s not a hard and fast rule. The proper height depends on breed and age, and the hens’ ability to access the nests. Importance of Nest Height Nest boxes must be easy for the hens to […]
Mice in the chicken coop can potentially spread diseases and parasites to the flock. And they will increase the cost of keeping chickens by eating that expensive chicken feed. One mouse can eat about one pound of chicken feed in one year. And think about this — mice reproduce fast! Each female mouse weans 30 […]
Bantam chickens make perfect starter birds for beginning poultry keepers, especially young ones. Here are 10 reasons why bantams are the best chickens for kids. Bantams Are Small Pint-size bantams rarely weigh more than two pounds. Because of their smaller size and lighter weight, these diminutive chickens can be less intimidating for kids than some […]
Backyard geese are nearly as majestic as swans, but are a whole lot less expensive to buy and to raise. Not only are they aesthetically pleasing, but they also serve many useful purposes. Here are 12 wonderful reasons to keep geese in your backyard. 1. Goose meat is delectable Most breeds of domestic geese originally […]
Using a boot bath before and after you visit your chickens keeps your footwear clean. More important, it enhances your biosecurity measures to ensure that your flock stays healthy. The procedure for maintaining a boot bath and sanitizer is easy and inexpensive. Make a Boot Bath To make a boot bath and sanitizer, you need […]
The stuff scattered over the floor of a chicken coop is often called bedding, because at night livestock bed down on. Although chickens may rest on the floor during the day, at night they would rather roost than bed. Therefore many people prefer to call it litter. Whatever you choose to call it, the best […]
A child’s initial experience with chickens is often the most memorable. To ensure that the youngster’s introduction to chickens is pleasant and fun, consider these qualities when choosing the best first chickens for kids: They are calm in disposition They are friendly with people The breed is appropriate for small hands The chickens enjoy hugs […]