Chickens
-
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
-
Proven and Safe Ways to Boost Protein for Your Chickens This Winter
To support chickens in winter, switch to high-protein layer feeds (18–20%) and supplement with treats like mealworms, black soldier fly larvae, and cooked eggs. Incorporate nutritious options such as pumpkin seeds and canned fish while maintaining a balanced diet. These… Continue reading
-
Can Chickens Have Christmas Trees? How to Reuse Your Tree Safely on the Homestead
Post-holiday Christmas trees can be repurposed for chickens if they are natural and untreated. The trees serve as enrichment, providing shelter, scratching opportunities, and insect deterrence. Safe types include pine, spruce, and fir. Reusing trees can reduce waste and support… Continue reading
-
Holiday Leftovers: What Table Scraps You Shouldn’t Feed Your Chickens
During the holidays, it’s essential to keep chickens safe from harmful foods. Avoid giving them stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, bread, turkey skin, green bean casserole, or any alcohol/caffeine. Instead, share safe treats like plain vegetables, cooked potatoes, rice, and… Continue reading
-
The Best Books to Help You on Your Homesteading Journey
Creating a homestead library is essential for self-reliant homesteaders, offering guidance on topics like raising chickens, gardening, and beekeeping. Valuable books not only provide practical skills but also deepen understanding of the processes involved. Despite the prevalence of digital resources,… Continue reading
-
A Day on the Homestead: The Rhythm of Daily Chores
The author describes the early morning routine on J & J Homestead, starting at 0430 to care for various animals. These tasks, including feeding and maintenance, emphasize the connection to the land and animals. Consistent daily chores, while demanding, foster… Continue reading
-
Why Chickens Eat Eggs — and How to Stop It Naturally
Chickens may develop the habit of eating their own eggs due to broken shells, nutritional deficiencies, stress, boredom, or overcrowding. To prevent and stop this behavior, it is essential to collect eggs frequently, provide proper nutrition, improve nesting conditions, and… Continue reading
-
A Frosty Morning on the Homestead: Helping Chickens Through the First Freeze
The arrival of cold weather prompted preparations for backyard chickens, focusing on draft-free coops and waterers. A special hot breakfast of oatmeal, herbs, and mealworms was provided to energize the flock. Key winter care includes insulation, hydration, and nutrition, ensuring… Continue reading
-
Recognizing and Treating Frostbite in Poultry – Prevention Tips and Natural Remedies
During winter, chickens and ducks face frostbite, a common cold-weather issue caused by moisture and low temperatures. Effective prevention includes proper coop management, ventilation, and moisture control. Recognizing early symptoms is crucial for treatment, using natural remedies and supportive measures.… Continue reading
-
Deep Litter Method: The Cozy Coop Solution
The Deep Litter Method is an effective winter strategy for keeping chickens warm, healthy, and happy without heat lamps. This sustainable approach involves layering bedding and manure to create compost that generates gentle heat. It reduces odor, maintenance work, and… Continue reading
