Tag: chicken breeds

If you are building a backyard flock, it is completely normal to wonder whether different chicken breeds can live together without turning into accidental crosses.

Starting a backyard flock shouldn’t mean committing to dozens of chicks you don’t have room for. Many hatcheries require large minimums per breed, which can make it hard for families, beginners, and hobbyists to build the flock they actually want. That’s where Chickens for Backyards stands out.

When you’re looking to bring home backyard chickens for the first time, breed is an important consideration. Different breeds have different needs, particularly when it comes to the climate you live in and the space you have available. Choosing the right breed for your backyard environment ensures happier, healthier birds and a more enjoyable experience… Read more »

As a backyard chicken keeper, you want your flock to be as healthy and happy as possible. Just like people, chickens can become stressed. When they do, it affects their behavior, their health, and even their egg production. Fortunately, with a little attention and care, we can spot the signs early and adjust support them…. Read more »

Molting season can be a stressful time for chickens and caretakers alike. As feathers fall out and new ones begin to take their place, your flock’s nutritional needs will begin to shift. It’s up to you to give them the right diet to support heathy feather regrowth and keep their energy up during this demanding… Read more »

Raising baby chicks for the first time is an exciting experience, but once they’ve grown past their fluffy beginnings, it’s time to start thinking about moving them into their outdoor coop. That transition can be a little nerve-wracking, especially for first-time chicken owners. But with a few key steps, you can make the process safe… Read more »

One of the many perks of raising backyard chickens is collecting fresh eggs straight from the coop. During peak laying season, you may even end up with more eggs than you know what to do with. When that happens, you may even lose track of how long you’ve had certain eggs. It’s important to know… Read more »

One of the best perks about raising backyard chickens is gathering fresh eggs each day. Not only do they taste better, they also offer some real health advantages over the store-bought variety. If you’ve been thinking about keeping chickens, here are some reasons why fresh backyard eggs are worth the effort: Higher Nutritional Value Backyard… Read more »

It’s so easy to become overwhelmed with the stresses and annoyances that come with the work and responsibility of adult life. That’s why it’s important to find something that offers you a respite from all of this. One such option is keeping backyard chickens. These delightful creatures offer far more than just fresh eggs. They… Read more »

Spring ushers in warmer temperatures, but it also brings its share of rainy days. For backyard chicken owners, this means taking extra precautions to ensure your flock remains healthy and happy despite the wet weather. Here are few tips to help you support your chickens through the rainy season effectively: Ensure Proper Coop Drainage Good… Read more »

Easter is a time of celebration and renewal. So, what better way to enhance the festive spirit than with your own backyard chickens. Having chickens during this joyful season adds a unique and personal touch to traditional activities. Here are some ways that these feathered friends can make your Easter even more special: Endless Supply… Read more »

With egg prices soaring in recent months and showing no signs of going down, backyard chicken owners have a distinct advantage. You get to enjoy fresh daily eggs and have the opportunity to maximize their use and value. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your eggs in 2025, ensuring nothing… Read more »

Starting the journey of raising backyard chickens is an exciting time in life. But it’s incredibly important to ensure you have the right supplies is crucial for a smooth start. Whether you’re new to chicken keeping or looking to enhance your existing setup, here are essential items that will help you and your feathered friends… Read more »

With the recent news about egg prices skyrocketing, you may have considered bringing home backyard chickens just for the consistent, fresh eggs they lay. If you’ve been seriously weighing that option, you should know these birds offer so much more than a steady supply of eggs. Backyard chickens can enrich your life and your garden… Read more »

Involving children in the care of backyard chickens provides them with a fun activity while also offering numerous benefits that contribute to their development and well-being. The advantages they gain from learning to responsibly care for an animal are significant. Here’s why encouraging your children to help with backyard chickens is a valuable experience: Teaches… Read more »

So, you’re exploring the idea of diversifying your backyard poultry. You’re likely curious about the differences and similarities between guinea fowl eggs and chicken eggs. Both types are nutritious and can be used in similar culinary applications, but they also have distinct characteristics that might influence your decision to raise one bird over the other…. Read more »

Owning backyard chickens is a rewarding experience that also comes with its share of responsibilities. Just like any other pet, chickens require care, attention, and a conducive environment to thrive. If you’re considering joining the growing community of backyard chicken owners or are looking to improve as a poultry keeper, there are a few things… Read more »

Have you ever cracked open an egg while getting ready to make breakfast and been surprised by the color of the yolk? If you keep backyard chickens, this has likely happened to you at some point. By now, you’ve realized that the yolks can vary significantly in color. This variation is not just a curiosity… Read more »

As we get fully into the swing of 2025, many people are looking for ways to improve various aspects of our lives. For backyard chicken owners, this year is an excellent opportunity to enhance the care you provide to your feathered friends. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or just starting out, here are a few… Read more »

The holiday season is all about warmth, joy, and festive traditions. Integrating backyard chickens into your holiday celebrations can add an extra layer of charm and a unique flair to your festivities. From fresh eggs for holiday recipes to engaging family activities, here’s how keeping backyard chickens can make your holiday season more special: Fresh… Read more »

The holiday season is a time of joy and celebration. So, who says your backyard chickens can’t get in on the fun? This year, include your feathered friends in on the holiday festivities to enhance the cheerful spirit and create memorable moments. Here are some festive ways to celebrate the holidays with your backyard chickens:… Read more »

Winter is approaching, meaning it’s time to ensure your backyard turkeys are prepared for the cold. Turkeys are resilient, but the harsh weather conditions can still pose significant challenges. Here are 10 detailed tips to help you provide the best care for your turkeys during the colder months: Winterize the Coop Inspect your turkey coop… Read more »

Molting season can be a challenging time for backyard chicken owners. It often leads to a decrease in egg production and requires special care to help your chickens stay healthy. That’s part of the reason it’s so important to understand the molting process and how to support your flock during this time. In fact, it’s… Read more »

With the seasons in transition and the colder weather setting in, you have likely noticed some changes in your backyard chickens’ behavior. These are natural adaptations to the colder temperatures and shorter days. Understanding these behavioral shifts can help you better care for your flock during this time of year. Decreased Egg Production Chickens tend… Read more »

Backyard chicken keeping has surged in popularity over the years for more reasons than just the steady supply of fresh eggs. The benefits of raising your own chickens go far beyond the breakfast table, enhancing your lifestyle, enriching your gardening experience, and even improving your well-being. Here’s why incorporating backyard chickens into your life might… Read more »

Bringing home backyard chickens for the first time is an exciting first step in a journey that can last for decades. But it’s only natural to stumble along the way when you’re new to the world of chicken keeping. To ensure a smooth start, and a happy, healthy, flock, here are some common mistakes to… Read more »

Taking care of backyard chickens can be a rewarding experience, although you might occasionally encounter some behavioral issues. This can come in the form of pecking, bullying, or even unwanted escape attempts. Regardless, it’s important to address these behaviors promptly to help maintain a harmonious coop. Here’s how to correct bad behavior in your chickens… Read more »

If you’re a backyard chicken owner, you don’t need to be told that chickens are intelligent, curious creatures. They thrive when their environment provides opportunities to engage in natural behaviors such as scratching, pecking, and exploring. Enriching your chicken’s environment not only enhances their well-being, but can also promote healthier, more sociable birds. Here’s how… Read more »

When you’re a backyard chicken owner, ensuring your flock has a comfortable, clean, and safe environment is crucial their health and happiness. One of the absolutely most important elements in achieving this is choosing the right bedding for their coop. Good bedding will absorb moisture, reduce odors, and help manage waste, making it an essential… Read more »

With the official start of autumn just days away, it’s important for new backyard chicken owners to know that this change in season will bring a new set of considerations. As the days grow shorter and the temperatures drops, you’re going to have to prepare your flock for the cooler months ahead to ensure their… Read more »

Integrating backyard chickens into your homestead can be a delightful addition to your ecosystem. But it’s absolutely vital to understand which animals will make good companions for your chickens and which might create tension. This knowledge is crucial for maintaining the peace and health within your backyard habitat. This guide will outline how chickens interact… Read more »

There’s so much to love about becoming a backyard chicken owner. You become more self-sufficient, you’ll be provided with fresh eggs and natural pest control, and you’ll have the joy of connecting with animals. But before any of that happens, you have some big decisions to make. Perhaps the most important question you’ll have to… Read more »

No matter where you live, chances are you’re going to have to deal with heavy rain at some point. And if you’re a backyard chicken owner, this might cause you some level of panic. You shouldn’t worry too much – chickens can manage in all kinds of weather conditions. There are a few potential minor… Read more »

Starting the journey of backyard chicken ownership is such an exciting time in your life, filled with both anticipation and preparation. To ensure a smooth transition and a happy, healthy flock, it’s important to ensure you have all the necessary supplies before your feathered friends arrive. This can be a stressful process with so many… Read more »

One of the best reasons to keep backyard chickens is the plentiful supply of fresh eggs they’ll provide you with. Sometimes, however, you might get more than you bargained for and end up with more eggs than you know what to do with. Instead of wasting these delicious eggs, here are some creative and practical… Read more »

While most chicken breeds can hold their own in the summer heat, there is always the small chance of heat stress. If you live in a climate where the temperatures tend to sore this time of year, it’s important to know that your chickens can be vulnerable to overheating. As a backyard chicken owner, it’s… Read more »

Investing in backyard chickens can be such a fulfilling experience. If this is your first summer with these special creatures in your care, you’re in for a lot of fun and excitement. But once the weather really starts to heat up, you’ll need to adjust your care routines to ensure your feathered friends thrive in… Read more »

We all want our backyard chickens to live in the best conditions possible. The only way to truly ensure that happens is to be vigilant about maintaining their coops. In fact, it may be your most important responsibility as an owner. When you properly maintain your chicken’s coop, you are ensuring your feathered friends are… Read more »

With summer officially underway, we’re in for a few months of sun and warm temps. And with every summer comes at least a few days of extreme heat. If you’re a backyard chicken owner, these are days where you should be extra vigilant with your care. Keeping them cool and comfortable is essential to both… Read more »

Embarking on the journey of backyard chicken keeping can be incredibly rewarding, providing you with fresh eggs, natural pest control, and the joy of connecting with your food source. However, like any new endeavor, there are important basics every first-time chicken owner should know to ensure success. Here are ten essential tips to help you… Read more »

As temperatures rise during the upcoming summer months, keeping your backyard chickens cool and comfortable becomes a top priority. Chickens can suffer from heat stress, which can severely impact their health and egg production. Recognizing the signs that the heat is affecting your chickens is essential for taking quick action to ensure their wellbeing. Here… Read more »

As the chill of winter thaws into the warmth of spring, it’s an ideal time for backyard chicken keepers to perform a thorough check-in with their feathered friends. Spring symbolizes renewal in nature, so this is a crucial opportunity to ensure the health and well-being of your chickens after the long winter months. Here are… Read more »

Introducing backyard chickens into your family can be more than just an addition to your home—it can be an enriching experience for your children as well. Teaching kids to care for animals fosters responsibility, empathy, and a connection to nature. Here’s how you can transform chicken care from a chore into a fun and educational… Read more »

As the frost of winter melts away and the first green shoots of spring make their appearance, many of us start to feel the itch for new beginnings. For those considering entering the rewarding journey of backyard chicken keeping, there couldn’t be a more perfect time than spring to start. The season of renewal is… Read more »

Easter marks a season of joy, renewal, and for those of us who keep backyard chickens, an opportunity to showcase the bountiful produce our hens gift us. Beyond just collecting these eggs, Easter gives us a chance to creatively use them in various aspects of our celebration, from cooking to crafting. Here are some inspiring… Read more »

Raising chickens from baby chicks is one of the most rewarding experiences a backyard poultry keeper can have. Watching these tiny, fluffy balls of energy grow into full-sized hens and roosters is not just fascinating; it’s educational. However, as they grow, chicks undergo several changes, not just in size but in their behavior, dietary needs,… Read more »

In the coldest of winter months, it’s easy to begin to worry about the well-being of our feathered backyard friends. Chickens are surprisingly resilient creatures, well-equipped by nature to withstand cooler temperatures. However, as a caring chicken owner, you can take steps to ensure they stay comfortable and healthy through the winter. Let’s explore how… Read more »

As we bid farewell to the old year and welcome the new, it’s a time for reflection and setting goals. As a backyard chicken owner, your flock’s health and happiness are likely at the top of your priority list. So, why not make some New Year’s resolutions to become an even better poultry parent? Here… Read more »

Gathering fresh eggs from your backyard chickens is one of the simple pleasures of raising your own poultry. In fact, it may even be the primary reason you brought chickens to your home in the first place. So, of course you’re going to want to everything you can to support the animals and ensure they’re… Read more »

When you bring chickens into your backyard, you’re signing up for fresh eggs, delightful companionship, hard work, and, yes, a bit of odor management. It’s an undeniable part of the chicken-keeping experience, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a few practical steps, you can easily keep your chicken coop smelling fresh and your… Read more »

Chickens are adaptable to many conditions, including most weather. But sometimes the elements get serious enough that you can’t help but be concerned as a backyard chicken owner. Heavy rain, extreme wind, snow, cold, thunder, and lightning can cause certain problems for your backyard poultry. But if you plan ahead, prepare, and act quickly, ensuring… Read more »

There are a great many tasks you’re responsible for when you choose to invest in backyard chickens. One that is often overlooked is keeping them safe from predators. Even in suburban settings, there are predators that can bring harm to your beloved backyard poultry. With that in mind, it’s important to walk through some simple,… Read more »

If you’re considering raising chickens on your property, one of your first considerations should be how much space you’ll need. That will depend on a few factors, including how many chickens you plan to bring home. Here’s what you need to know when it comes to the necessary space required to house backyard chickens: Room… Read more »

Deciding to invest in backyard chickens is a fantastic idea for a variety of reasons. One of the biggest payoffs is the consistent availability of freshly laid eggs. They represent a significant improvement over commercial, store-bought eggs and not just because you don’t have to leave your property to get them. If you’ve been contemplating… Read more »

The cool nip in the air, the first frost on the grass, and the reduced daylight can only mean one thing: winter is coming. And for those with backyard chickens, it’s a time when our protective instincts might kick into overdrive. Your immediate thought might be that you need to keep your chickens warm. While… Read more »

The day has finally arrived. You’re feeling anticipation, excitement, and maybe a little nervous—as you prepare to welcome your new feathery friends to their forever home. Bringing home new chickens is an adventure in itself. To ensure their transition is smooth, and they settle in comfortably, there are some key steps you should follow. Here… Read more »

So, you’ve decided to venture into the delightful world of backyard chicken keeping — congratulations! It’s a rewarding and fulfilling experience. Before you begin, one of the first and most vital questions budding poultry enthusiasts grapple with is, “How many chickens should I get?” While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, some factors can guide you in… Read more »

If you’re considering raising backyard chickens, you’ve probably thought of the countless joys this decision will bring you – fresh eggs, natural pest control, and the pleasure of their company. But it’s especially important to consider the effect this change will have on your neighbors. After all, your part of a larger community, especially if… Read more »

As the warmth of summer gradually transitions to the crisp breeze of autumn and eventually the chill of winter, budding poultry enthusiasts might be wondering how to ensure your backyard flock stays cozy, safe, healthy, and comfortable. The good news is it’s totally doable if you’re equipped with the right knowledge. Here are some tips… Read more »

Maybe you’ve pictured it: waking up to the gentle clucking of hens, stepping into your backyard to be greeted by your flock, and the joy of fresh, home-laid eggs. But before you jump into the world of backyard poultry, there are important questions you need to ask yourself. Ensuring that you are fully prepared for… Read more »

As the end of summer approaches, it’s time for a backyard flock health check. Making sure your chickens are ready for the fall can ensure they transition smoothly into the cooler months. Here’s a checklist to help your chickens face autumn in good health. Health and Nutrition Molting often starts at the end of summer…. Read more »

As summer begins to wane and the days grow shorter, you may notice something peculiar about your backyard flock: your chickens are losing feathers! Don’t panic. This is likely the natural process known as molting. Here’s what every chicken keeper needs to know about this annual occurrence. What is Molting? Molting is a normal part… Read more »

Summer can be a challenging time for backyard chickens. High temperatures and increased activity can lead to dehydration if not managed correctly. One essential factor in keeping your flock healthy and happy during the summer months is ensuring they have plenty of fresh, clean water. Let’s explore some tips for keeping your chickens well-hydrated this… Read more »

Summer is a season of abundant sunshine and warm temperatures, but for backyard chickens, the sun’s intense heat can pose some risks. A common question that arises is, “Do chickens need sunscreen?” Let’s tackle this query and further explore the sun and heat risks for your flock. Chickens and Sun Exposure Unlike humans, chickens do… Read more »

Raising healthy backyard chickens requires understanding their dietary needs. Different stages of life require different types of feed, so let’s delve into the chicken nutrition basics and break down what you should be feeding your flock at each stage of their lives. The First Days: Baby Chicks When chicks first hatch, they need a diet… Read more »

When setting up a chicken coop, ventilation often takes a backseat to concerns about predators or the elements. But proper ventilation is just as crucial for your flock’s health and well-being. Let’s explore why it’s so essential and how to ensure your coop has adequate airflow. Understanding the Importance of Ventilation Ventilation is vital for… Read more »

So, you’re ready to introduce some new feathered friends to your existing flock. That’s eggs-citing news! But we know it can also be a bit daunting. Chickens have a specific social structure – often referred to as a “pecking order” – and adding new birds to the mix can shake things up. But don’t worry,… Read more »

You’ve built the coop, brought home your flock, and your backyard chicken adventure has begun. Now, as the sun sets, you’re noticing a little problem. Your feathered friends don’t seem too keen on returning to their coop for the night. But don’t worry, this is a common problem and thankfully we’ve got some easy tips… Read more »

Ever wondered how to give your flock more space to roam while keeping them safe from predators? If so, you’re in the right place. Today, we’re guiding you through the process of building your own chicken run – a must-have for any chicken owner who values the happiness and health of their feathered friends. Why… Read more »

As more and more people begin to raise backyard chickens, there will be a lot of information floating around about the business of raising poultry. Unfortunately, some of this information is straight-out false. Here, we will dispel some of the most common misconceptions and myths about raising backyard chicks. Myth: You need a rooster for… Read more »

Too often, people think that raising chickens is something you can only do out in the country. However, you can get the rewards of raising backyard chickens in urban and suburban environments, as well. But don’t think you can use the same techniques in a rural environment as you can in a city or suburb…. Read more »

Most chickens don’t have feathers on their feet, but not all! These feather footed chickens are a sight to behold, and they’re a great addition to any backyard flock. Nevertheless, they do need different kinds of care. Here, we discuss everything you need to know about your feather footed chickens and how best to care… Read more »

When starting a backyard flock, many people buy chicks and raise them into full-grown adult chickens. While this is an excellent way to start your backyard flock, it’s not the only way. You can also buy pullets. Chicken pullets are female chickens under one year of age. They’re typically 6-9 weeks old when they’re shipped,… Read more »

Here at Chickens for Backyards, we’ve talked repeatedly about what you should do when caring for your chickens in the winter. But what about what you shouldn’t do? Being aware of what not to do will help prevent you from making these mistakes in the first place. Read on to learn more: Don’t tightly insulate… Read more »

With the cold weather setting in, you’re likely taking steps to prepare your flock for the months ahead. But if you live in a cold climate, it may be a good idea to get chickens that are built for colder weather. These hardy chickens can withstand tougher conditions than most normal chickens. But which breeds… Read more »

When starting a backyard flock, many people decide to build their own chicken coops. However, not everyone has the time, tools, or skills to do so. Buying a readymade chicken coop is a perfectly acceptable alternative. However, since you’ll be relying on someone else to build it, you’ll need to ensure that it has everything… Read more »

If you stayed home alone all day, every day, chances are you’d start to get lonely. Our chickens are just the same. Chickens are social animals, and they need other chickens around them in order to be happy. Here are a few reasons why that is: More chickens will keep away predators A single chicken… Read more »

Many humans rely on a diet of meat and plants to stay healthy. Unfortunately, much of the meat we buy comes from factory farms that force animals to live under cruel conditions. Just because an animal is to be slaughtered for meat does not mean it shouldn’t be treated well and with respect during its… Read more »

When you start raising chicks, you want to keep them safe and healthy. Unfortunately, chicks are susceptible to accidents. It’s all too easy for them to get injured, sometimes seriously so. Thankfully, you can take steps to prevent these injuries and, if they do occur, treat them. Here, we go through some of the most… Read more »

No matter where you live, predators will always be a problem for your flock. It can be heartbreaking to find that a fox or hawk has killed one of your chickens. As such, it’s always best to be prepared and take steps to protect your flock from predator attacks. While each predator is different, many… Read more »

If you’re raising chickens as pets or for eggs, you’ll likely be taking care of them for a long time. As such, you’ll form the most tremendous bonds with your flock. It’s only suitable, then, that you give your chickens names as you would with your cats or dogs! However, naming your chickens can be… Read more »

When you decide to raise backyard chickens, you’re not the only one who is impacted by that decision. Your neighbors will also be impacted. This is especially the case if you live in a city or suburb where you live right next to each other. So, before you start building your coop and gathering supplies,… Read more »

Here at Chickens for Backyards, we believe every child should have the chance to handle and raise backyard chickens. Not only are chickens adorable companions, but they can also be a great learning opportunity. Raising backyard chickens can help kids learn about responsibility and about where our food comes from. However, while there are many… Read more »

Chickens make great companions and can be wonderful helpers in teaching responsibility and care to kids. Of course, with any animal, some breeds are known to be more friendly with humans. Especially if it’s your first time caring for chickens, it’s never a bad idea to get some that you know have the reputation of… Read more »

When you head to the grocery store, you’ll likely see many varieties of eggs. You’ll see white eggs and brown eggs, cage-free and pasture-raised, and more. Another distinction you’ll notice is the size of the eggs. Chicken eggs can come in many sizes, but the USDA recognizes only six weight classes. Read on to learn… Read more »

When you get your chicken meat from the grocery store, it often comes from large corporations that use unethical practices. Chickens are kept in cruel environments and there is little care given to their happiness and livelihood. However, we can help break this cycle. Small flock owners and free rangers can provide a healthy and… Read more »

If you have a backyard flock of chickens, it’s important to be aware of the risk factors associated with salmonella outbreaks. Salmonella is a genus of dangerous bacteria that can spread through a flock of chickens via rodent droppings, and then be transmitted to humans if poultry or eggs are not properly prepared. Humans can… Read more »

When you start your own backyard flock, you want to do everything right. However, there are many common mistakes that beginners make. Sometimes those mistakes start right when they’re ordering their chicks. Here, we lay out those mistakes to help you avoid them as much as possible: You order too many chicks When starting your… Read more »

We are facing a mental health crisis in America that has only been compounded by the COVID-19 Pandemic. With more people suffering from depression, anxiety, and other mental illnesses, the use of therapy animals has risen drastically. Many people turn to dogs or cats for animal assisted therapy, but did you know chickens can also… Read more »

Baby chicks are cute, small, and fluffy. It’s no wonder why so many people fall in love with them! But baby chicks won’t stay chicks for long. Just like all of us, chicks grow and mature into adults, eventually retiring as seniors. A lot of things change when a chicken goes from a fluffy baby chick… Read more »

For those of us in colder climates, we’ll soon start preparing for the fall and winter months ahead. As we prepare, so too will our chickens. However, some chicken breeds are better at adapting to the cold than others. Many of these cold hardy breeds have small combs and wattles as well as plenty of… Read more »

Chickens have many distinguishable features, and among those are their plumes of feathers. These feathers aren’t just for looks; they also provide chickens with protection from the elements and help them fly, to name a few reasons. Understanding how your chickens’ feathers work can help you better take care of them. Read on to learn… Read more »

When you start raising a backyard flock, you may begin exploring the idea of raising other types of animals as well. If you have ample backyard space, this can be a real possibility. But you want to make sure that your new animals will coexist with your chickens. Below we list out some of the… Read more »

Once you’ve decided to start a backyard flock, you need to figure out what types of chickens you want to raise. Indeed, there is more than one type of chicken. In fact, there are hundreds of breeds you could choose from, but many of them can be classified into three categories: egg layers, meat producers,… Read more »

The Silkie chicken stands apart from other chickens. It dates back to the Chinese Han Dynasty in 206BC, its name deriving from its unique black bones. In addition to its black bones, the Silkie also features black skin which is covered by a large amount of fluffy feathers. Silkies are one of the fluffiest chickens… Read more »

A few weeks ago, we discussed everything you needed to know about Bantam chickens. Now, we’re turning our attention to another popular breed of backyard chickens: Cochins. A favorite of Queen Victoria and originally from Asia, Cochins are found in many backyard flocks. If you’re thinking about bringing in some Cochins into your own flock,… Read more »

While chickens provide great companionship, there is a very tangible benefit to raising backyard chickens: their eggs. Having a fresh supply of eggs that your family can enjoy each morning is why many chicken raisers get into the business in the first place. Plus, there’s no denying that selling your chicken eggs can be quite… Read more »

Small, lovable, and with tons of personality, bantam chickens are a popular breed for backyard chicken raisers. Their diminutive size makes them perfect for backyards where space is wanting, and their upbeat demeanor turns them into excellent pets. If you’re just getting started with raising backyard chickens, bantams are a great place to start. Nevertheless,… Read more »

In the past few years, the Sapphire Gem Chicken has become increasingly popular amongst backyard chicken raisers. However, finding information on this breed—and even finding a place to buy the breed—can be easier said than done. The reason for that is because the Sapphire Gem Chicken breed is not an actual breed at all, but… Read more »

From snakes to badgers, there are a lot of potential predators that can threaten your flock. While we can put up as much fencing and wiring as we can, there is only so much we can do. That’s why many chicken raisers employ livestock guard dogs (LGD) to protect their flock. However, not just any… Read more »

Cuddly, adorable, and quirky, your flock of backyard chickens are more than just pets; they’re family. Seeing your chickens run around in your backyard, happy as can be, is what makes raising them worth it. Of course, a little extra money on the side doesn’t hurt either. From fresh eggs to day-old chicks, there are… Read more »

Roosters can bring many benefits to your backyard flock. They can protect your hens from predators while also allowing you to hatch your own eggs. However, there is one drawback: the noise. Roosters love to crow, but that crowing can get out of hand. So, what are you supposed to do? Here we provide some… Read more »

Raising backyard chickens is something that all people, of all ages, can enjoy. Children especially can get so much out of raising chickens, with hens often becoming close companions. However, as fun as it can be for children to interact and raise backyard chickens, there are risks involved. Chickens are animals, after all, and our… Read more »

When you begin to raise backyard chickens, you’re bound to make a few mistakes. Nevertheless, for the sake of your flock, you should try your best to avoid these mistakes early on. There are many common mistakes that beginners make when raising backyard chickens, and by being familiar with them, you are more able to… Read more »

Under normal conditions, a chicken’s life expectancy is about 8 years. However, there are a whole host of factors that can impact how long your chickens will live. While predators and diseases are obvious factors, there are other, less obvious factors, that can determine the length of your chicken’s life. Here are just a few: … Read more »

Perhaps the primary reason for raising backyard chickens is having a fresh supply of eggs on your table every day. However, when you’re new to raising chickens, you may be asking yourself one question: how often will my hens lay eggs? Unfortunately, there is no clear-cut answer.  The short answer Frankly, there is no short… Read more »

Raising backyard chickens can be a thrilling and rewarding experience; it can also be a daunting experience. This is especially the case for beginners who may be attracted to the idea of raising backyard chickens but may not know where to start. That’s why we’ve put together this step-by-step guide to help all beginners get… Read more »

For some people, owning one or two chickens in their backyard is all they need to be happy. For others, however, the more the merrier! While you can certainly keep buying hens from Chickens for Backyards, there is a special joy in breeding chickens yourself. Not only will this increase the numbers in your flock,… Read more »

There are many benefits to raising backyard chickens. They’re great pets, good educational tools, and they provide you with plenty of fresh eggs. They can also be great for the environment by helping you live a more sustainable lifestyle. Here’s how: Fresh eggs As we said before, having a constant supply of fresh eggs is… Read more »

When raising backyard chickens, you obviously want to keep them safe and healthy. You also want to keep your lawn looking its best. For many homeowners, herbicides and pesticides are used to keep unwanted pests and plants away, but what do you do if you have backyard chickens? Are those same herbicides and pesticides safe… Read more »

Chicken combs are one of the most identifiable parts of a chicken. Nearly all chickens have them, but similar to their feathers or eyes, each is a little bit different. Some chicken combs, for example, are bright-red, while others are black; some stick straight up, while others run along the skull. But what, exactly, do… Read more »

If you walk into your local grocery store, you’ll notice that most eggs have white-colored shells. However, did you know that there are multiple variations of egg colors? In fact, colored eggs are commonly found in backyard coops. Before you start your collection, there is some vital information to understand: The Science Behind the Color… Read more »

Believe it or not, not all chickens are the same. Some are hardy, others not; some are best for egg production, others for meat. There are even some chickens that have a genetic abnormality that other species do not. Known as chicken tufts, these are found only in the Araucana breed and their descendants. What… Read more »

Whether you live in the city or in the country, if you’re planning on raising backyard chickens you first need to make sure you have the adequate space for them. While chickens don’t need an entire field to roam in, they do need some space in order to leave healthy and happy lives. In that… Read more »

The Silver Laced Wyandotte is a popular breed of chicken, and for good reason. Originating in Upstate New York back in the 1870s, the Silver Laced Wyandotte was bred to be both productive and aesthetically appealing. It’s versatility makes it an excellent choice for your farm or backyard flock, but there’s more to this breed… Read more »

When it comes to raising chickens, there is a lot of work that goes into the endeavor. You have to keep them happy, healthy, and protected. As far as threats come, there can be a lot to watch out for, and that includes environmental pressures, illnesses, and threats that come in the form of predators… Read more »

When you purchase a dozen eggs from the grocery store, all of the eggs are typically the same color. You might get a dozen white eggs or a dozen brown in your carton. But when you take a look at the eggs that are laid by your personal chickens, you will notice that they are… Read more »

A lot of things change when a chicken goes from a fluffy baby chick to a fully-grown, producing chicken. IT IS IMPORTANT TO KNOW THE VARIOUS STAGES OF GROWTH WHEN IT COMES TO CHICKENS IN ORDER TO RAISE THEM APPROPRIATELY. Understanding the changes of growth will help you better comprehend the science of these birds and will give you… Read more »

There are a number of good reasons to raise your own flock of chickens. Chickens can provide you and your family with a fresh supply of eggs. They can also be kept as pets. But regardless of why you ultimately decide to raise chickens, you should ask yourself a few questions before you do, just… Read more »