Chickens
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Chicken Run Enrichment Ideas: How to Keep Chickens Happy, Healthy, and Busy
Chickens require more than just basic needs; enrichment is vital for their mental well-being. Boredom can lead to aggression and lower egg production. Simple methods include adding perches, creating dust baths, encouraging foraging, rotating toys, and using natural materials. Seasonal… Continue reading
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Herbs and Spices for Chickens: Natural Ways to Support Flock Health (and Common Myths)
Raising backyard chickens naturally incorporates beneficial herbs and spices for their health, supporting immunity, digestion, and overall wellness. Common herbs like oregano, thyme, and garlic provide various advantages, but they are not cures. Moderation is essential, and herbs complement, rather… Continue reading
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Oregano Oil for Chickens: Benefits, Uses, and What Every Chicken Keeper Should Know
Oregano oil for chickens: learn the benefits, uses, and safety tips for supporting respiratory health, immunity, and gut health naturally in backyard flocks. Continue reading
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Sprouting Old Black-Eyed Peas and Lentils for Chickens: A Simple Winter Homestead Experiment
While cleaning the pantry, I found old lentils and black-eyed peas and opted to sprout them for my chickens as a nutritious winter treat. Sprouting makes legumes safer and more digestible for chickens. Although the sprouting success rate was low,… Continue reading
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Learning to Read the Signs: How My Instincts and Science are Helping Me to Save One of My Chickens
The challenges of diagnosing chicken health issues are often overlooked. When a White Crested Polish hen displayed unusual behavior, observation led to a fecal float test revealing parasites. This experience underscores the importance of self-education and trust in instincts while… Continue reading
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When the Chicken Comes Inside: Unexpected Realities of Homesteading in Winter
Sometimes homesteading means bringing a chicken inside. Learn why we brought a hen indoors during a cold snap and what it teaches about winter chicken care. Continue reading
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Picking the Right Chicken Breeds for Your Flock: Why Research Matters
As hatcheries announce their 2026 schedules, it’s time for homesteaders to research chicken breeds that align with their goals, whether for eggs, meat, or companionship. Consider traits like egg production, temperament, climate hardiness, and space needs to create a productive… Continue reading
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Post-Thanksgiving Homestead Winter Preparation
The J & J Homestead blog post highlights preparations for winter after Thanksgiving, focusing on keeping chickens and bees warm. The author shares insights on using radiant heaters thoughtfully, maintaining proper coop conditions, and winterizing hives. The article emphasizes early… Continue reading
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Extreme Cold is Coming! Time to Get the Homestead Ready!
This guide offers essential preparation tips for protecting chickens, ducks, honey bees, and homestead property during extreme cold weather. Key strategies include insulating coops, enhancing ventilation, providing adequate nutrition, and safeguarding water sources. Regular checks and emergency preparedness are crucial… Continue reading
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Enrichment Ideas for Chickens in November: Keeping Your Flock Happy as the Weather Turns Cold
Why November Is a Critical Month for Enrichment November is the month when things finally slow down on the homestead. The garden goes quiet, the bugs disappear, and your chickens naturally spend more time in their runs. With shorter days and cooling… Continue reading
