News
Spring Garden Hazards
As spring arrives and the first buds appear, gardening can be a relaxing and healthy way to pass the time. But it can also pose some potential risks to our cat and dog friends. With care and some knowledge, these risks can be avoided. Here is a list of potential concerns. Fertilizers and Pesticides: Fertilizers containing blood meal, bone meal, feather meal or iron can be tasty for dogs and particularly dangerous. Ingestion of large amounts of meal containing products can form concretions in the stomach resulting in obstruction and severe pancreatitis. Those containing iron can lead to iron poisoning...
Choosing the Right Chick Feed
Did you know that choosing the right chick feed can help your chicks develop healthy digestive systems? A healthy digestive system is key to a healthy chicken. It aids in the development of the immune system and promotes absorption of nutrients. Professionally formulated feeds provide your birds with proper nutrition at all stages of life. The Importance of Chick Feed Chicks need a feed that is different from adult layer feed. Chick starter-grower feed is 18% protein, compared to 16% to 18% in a layer ration. Chicks grow very quickly, and they need more protein to support their bodies in...
Getting the Most Eggs from Your Hens in Winter
As cold winter weather approaches and the days grow shorter, your normally productive hens may be challenged to stay productive, and the cold weather may take its toll on the eggs they do lay. How can you keep your hens in optimal laying condition and assure that their eggs are the highest quality possible, while helping the birds live their best lives in the dark, cold months of winter? Let’s look at some important factors to consider with regard to winter egg production. Egg Care Check your nest boxes early in the morning and several times a day, depending on...
Bird Feeding Tips for Fall
As the last heat wave of summer fades, bird feeders are disappearing from backyards.
Adding New Chicks to Your Flock
Whether you need to replace aging hens, want to increase the diversity of your poultry or just need a few more chickens to meet your needs or increase your profits, you must take great care when adding new chicks to your flock. Fortunately, if you understand the needs of new chicks and the hierarchy of your existing flock, you can successfully help both old and new chickens merge into one happy family. Problems When Growing Your Flock Several difficulties can arise when you try to add new chicks to an existing flock. Because chickens can be highly territorial, adding new...