Chicken Keeping “Basics” – Chicken Housing Equipment

In our last issue, we discussed building the chicken coop, this week we’ll talk about the things you need to put in the coop. Remember that chickens are very sound sleepers; they naturally want to sleep off the ground as a means of protecting themselves from predators. For this reason, you’ll want to provide your…

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Keeping Chicken Eggs Fresh

“What is the best way of keeping the chicken eggs? Should they be kept in the fridge or not?” ~ Nikki Ward Nikki, this is a great question, there’s a lot of confusing information out there. As part of the formation of the chicken egg, it is covered in a thin membrane called the “bloom”.…

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Chicken Keeping “Basics” – Chicken Housing Part 2

In our last issue, we discussed how to build a run or yard for confined chickens and the precautions necessary to free range your flock. In this issue, we will discuss the hen house or chicken coop. Remember to check for building codes or permit requirements for your area before you make any purchases. Let’s…

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Moulting In Hens and Chickens

I have a chicken that has molted and has stopped laying but is very skinny. She eats and drinks but she still looks very scraggy what do you suggest? ~ Anne Hubbard Thanks so much for the question Anne. I have a friend who is raising broilers. The other day we were discussing this very subject…

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Chicken Keeping “Basics” – Chicken Housing Part 1

In this new series, we will devote one question per issue to chicken keeping basics for those readers just starting out. We’ll start with housing for your chickens. It is important to have your housing ready before you head off to purchase your flock. Raising chickens is not a decision you should make on a…

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Keeping Noisy Roosters & Cockerels Quiet

“Can you get cockerels that are not noisy?” ~ Dominic Muddimer Dominic, that’s a great question, thanks for asking. Cockerels, or roosters, are indeed noisy. In our area, roosters are not permitted within city limits because of the noise. Thankfully we do not live within city limits. We have 4 Rhode Island Red roosters. We…

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Chicken Manure & Flies

“I have never kept chickens before, would we be likely to have a fly problem because of the chook poo?” ~ Jill Tyson Will chicken poop attract flies? In a word YES! Chicken poop, like any animal waste will attract flies and rodents but it does not have to be a problem with proper maintenance.…

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Keeping Chickens In Hot Climates

“I live I Spain (Andalusia) are there any recommended breeds that do well in what can be a very hot place 40 c.+.” ~ Dave Clifford Thanks for the great question. Our family raises chickens in an area where temperatures get over 40 c. for about 100 days each year. It’s not clear whether you…

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