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Chickens and the Birth of the USA

Dominique chicken with American flags

The United States was officially founded as a nation on July 4, 1776, when the Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence. Although residents of the new country had plenty of chickens, many of the breeds we know today didn’t exist then. So let’s take a look at the chickens that were here at the […]

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Call Ducks in the Heritage Breed Spotlight

White Call Duck

Call ducks are the smallest domestic duck breed. Compact and feisty, they have tiny, round bodies, short necks, small heads, and short bills. These ducks come in numerous colors, not all of which are admitted to the American Standard of Perfection. How did this duck breed get its name? In the 1600s, Call ducks were used […]

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How to Water Baby Chicks

Chicks drinking water

A baby chick’s body is about 70% water. Therefore, water is the most important nutrient for a newly hatched chick. In fact, a hatchling can’t digest feed without water. So a chick should drink water even before it eats anything. Here are the ins and outs of how to water baby chicks. How long can […]

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7 Ways to Store Farm Fresh Eggs

Chicken Eggs in Basket

Chickens are seasonal layers. Homegrown eggs therefore don’t arrive at the same rate year around. Sometimes you get too many. Sometimes not enough. Here are seven ways to store your farm fresh eggs, from countertop storage to dehydration. By extending their shelf-life, you can save them for when your hens take a vacation from laying. […]

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