If you’ve never seen a bantam chicken hopping across the yard like it owns the place, you’re in for a treat. Around here, our bantam Cochin hen, Mabel, is queen of the porch steps and self-appointed supervisor of anyone filling feed bowls. At about half the size of a standard chicken, bantams are often overlooked, […]
Bantam Chickens: Tiny Packages with Big Personality Read Post »
I still remember our first real winter with chickens. Late November came in fast. One morning I opened the coop and Doris gave me a look like, “You expect me to walk in this?” The wind cut through everything, and the snow was already two inches deep by sunrise. But you know who handled it
Cold Hardy Chicken Breeds That Handle Winter Like Pros Read Post »
Keeping Leghorns wasn’t my priority when I began my chicken farming journey. Initially, I was drawn in by colorful eggs and the quirky personalities of backyard breeds. But as the focus shifted to egg production, everyone pointed me in one direction: The Leghorns. Sure, I’d heard multiple stories about the reliability of Leghorns in egg
Raising Leghorns: White Leghorn, Brown Leghorn, and Pet Chicken Advice Read Post »
If you live in a place where summer feels like it lasts half the year—think Texas, Arizona, Florida, or the Deep South—you know the struggle is real when it comes to keeping your pet chickens cool. Not all breeds are built for the blazing sun, but the good news is there are plenty of heat
Heat Tolerant Chickens: The Best Breeds for Hot Climates and Happy Backyards Read Post »
Many years later, I still relish the idea of having colored eggs in my egg basket. Except for this time, I don’t need to paint artificial dye on the eggs. They now come with a natural dye, thanks to the Easter Egger chickens. So, what is it about Easter Egger chickens that you should know?
When I first saw Wyandotte chickens at my friend Heidi’s small country farm, the first thing that caught my eye was their beauty. The feathers appeared shiny with a very pretty lace design. I remember the patterns were so beautifully unique that I first thought they were hand-drawn. But what truly won my heart was
Chicken molting can be alarming, especially for new chicken keepers. I remember that one morning when I walked out to my coop. Upon opening the door, I was met with a startling sight: feathers all over the coop. My heart sank! My first thought? A predator must have found their way in. And to be
Chicken Molting 101: Everything A Chicken Keeper Should Know Read Post »
After reviewing the Rhode Island Red Chicken breed, I’m back again, and this time, I’ll be diving into one of my other favorite chicken breeds; the Barred Rock. Thanks to their versatility, adaptability, and incredible personality, this cute breed has earned a special place in not just my backyard flock but also my heart. Criteria
When we think of the ultimate family pet, raising chickens is usually the last thing on our minds as opposed to dogs and cats. The truth is that chickens can make awesome pets for the right families. These feathery friends are loyal, friendly, and capable of showing love just like any other pet. They have
Is Raising Chickens Worth It? What You Need to Know Before Keeping Backyard Chickens Read Post »
Breed Summary Table Criteria Description Breed Name Plymouth Rock Ideal for Families? Yes – Friendly and easy to handle Temperament Calm, docile and curious Egg Production Medium (4 – 5 eggs/week) Egg Color Light brown Size Large (7 to 8 lbs for hens) Coop Space Requirements 4 sq ft per bird inside, 10-12 sq ft
Raising backyard chickens is a widespread practice both in the city and country areas. And whether you intend to plunge into it for fresh eggs, meat, natural manure, or even the joy of watching the feathered creatures scratch in your yard, how you get started matters a lot. That’s one thing I understood before starting
What Do I Need to Start Raising Backyard Chickens? Read Post »
Are you planning to start raising chickens for eggs? Or, have you begun the journey already and are wondering what it takes to get really good at it? Either way, I have so much lined up for you in this article. There are not many things in life that are as rewarding as raising your
The Sussex is one of the oldest and most recognized chicken breeds, valued for its adaptability, steady egg production, and friendly disposition. Originally bred in England, Sussex chickens are celebrated for their calm demeanor and versatility as both egg layers and meat producers. These characteristics make them an ideal option for small farms or backyard
This guide provides a detailed look at the Australorp chicken breed, particularly for beginners, hobbyists, and urban farmers, aligning with sustainable and natural backyard chicken-keeping practices. Known for their ability to be raised for both meat and eggs, the Australorp is a great breed to have as you get your flock started. Breed Summary Table
When you raise chickens for commercial purposes, homesteading, or as backyard pets, chicken illness prevention and treatment is an important topic to know about. There are various diseases that can affect chickens and have devastating effects on the health of your flock. By understanding the different diseases and clinical signs to look out for, you