Tag: chickens for backyard

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.

Owning backyard chickens doesn’t mean you have to give up travel or long weekends away. It just takes a little planning and prep to make sure your flock stays healthy, safe, and comfortable while you’re gone. Here are a few key things to consider before packing your bags: Find a Reliable Chicken Sitter The most… Read more »

So, you’ve decided to raise chickens in your backyard. Well, caring for these animals is not just about the coop and feed. It’s about creating an outdoor environment where your flock can thrive. Designing a chicken-friendly landscape can help ensure your birds stay healthy, happy, and safe while also maintaining the beauty and functionality of… 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 »

It’s always exciting to grow your backyard poultry family, but it’s also a bit of a balancing act. Chickens are creatures of habit, so adding newcomers can stir up the pecking order. With a thoughtful approach, you can make the transition as smooth and safe as possible for both your new additions and the current… 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 »

As the weather warms up in spring and summer, we all start to spend more time outdoors, but so do pests. Unfortunately, backyard chickens are just very appealing to mites, lice, flies, and even predators. If you want to keep your flock healthy and thriving, you need to stay proactive about pest prevention and control…. 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 »

Easter is a wonderful time of year for families, especially those who keep backyard chickens. This holiday offers a perfect opportunity to incorporate home-laid eggs into traditional Easter egg hunts, adding a unique twist that only backyard chicken owners can enjoy. Here are some creative ideas that will make your Easter egg hunt extra special… 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 »

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 »

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 »

With Thanksgiving approaching, now is a great time to reflect on the many blessings in our lives. For those with backyard chickens, there are plenty of reasons to be grateful. Our feathered friends not only enrich our lives with their presence, but also contribute to our households in various meaningful ways. Here are a few… 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 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 »

After a few years of keeping and caring for backyard chickens, you may find yourself wanting to branch out and add a few different breeds to the mix. Integrating waterfowl such as ducks and geese with your backyard chickens can enrich your poultry experience, bringing diversity and new dynamics to your flock. This can be… 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 »

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 »

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 »

After a few years of keeping backyard chickens, you may consider adding another breed to your collection. If that’s true in your case, you should know that integrating guinea fowl with a flock of backyard chickens can add a fascinating dynamic to your poultry-keeping experience. Although both birds can share a backyard harmoniously, they each… Read more »

If you’ve already experienced the joys of raising backyard chickens and are considering adding ducks to your flock, there are some notable differences to be aware of. While ducks share some similarities with chickens, they have unique needs and behaviors that can make caring for them a delightful challenge. Let’s waddle through the main distinctions… 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 »

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 »

Blending a flock of chickens and ducks in your backyard can be a delightful endeavor. While these birds have distinct needs and behaviors, with careful planning and understanding, they can coexist in harmony, adding diversity and joy to your backyard. Here are some insights and tips to help you create a peaceful and productive environment… 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 »

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 »

The most popular reason people choose to raise backyard chickens is obvious – daily fresh eggs. But these quirky, feathered creatures offer us so much more than just breakfast. Here are some of the often-overlooked benefits of raising backyard chickens: A Healthier, Happier Garden Have you been dealing with nasty bugs getting into your garden?… 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 »

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 »

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 »

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 »

Introducing kids to the wonders of backyard chickens offers a unique opportunity for them to learn valuable lessons about nature, responsibility, and sustainability. Not only that, but parents can foster a love for animals and the environment while creating lasting memories. Nevertheless, you still want to make it fun. That’s why we’ve collected some of… Read more »

Permaculture is a holistic approach to designing sustainable systems. It allows you to get more out of your flock and garden with less work and less resources. One of the key elements in permaculture is integrating animals into the ecosystem to create a harmonious and self-sustaining environment. When it comes to poultry, chickens stand out… 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 »

Coming up with the best diet for your specific chickens sometimes requires trial and error, but one thing is certain: one of the best snacks for chickens is herbs. Not all herbs are appropriate for chickens, so Chickens for Backyards has created a guide on which herbs are best. Mint Who doesn’t love some fresh… Read more »

The first signs of fall are typically falling leaves and colder temperatures. But if you’re a chicken owner, those signs will also be accompanied by your chickens molting. While this is a completely normal process that your chickens will go through each year, you may be wondering why it happens. Read on to learn more:… Read more »

Chickens, unfortunately, can’t talk. As such, it’s hard to tell what’s on their mind or how they’re doing. If your chickens aren’t feeling well, they can’t tell us, but there will be signs. Here, we go through some of the most common signs your chicken isn’t feeling well so you can get them back to… 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 »

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 »

Feeding chickens can get expensive. But what if we told you there was a simple and easy way to cut down on costs? By planting perennial weeds around your backyard, you can do just that. These weeds are safe for your chickens to eat and will regrow every spring, thus reducing how much feed you… Read more »

No matter if you live in the city, the suburbs, or the countryside, there are many predators that can go after your chickens. To protect their flocks, many chicken owners deploy the services of certain animals. Some may use roosters, others have livestock guard dogs, and others may use geese. Having a goose to protect… 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 it gets hot in the summertime, you can retreat inside your air conditioned home or gulp down a bunch of ice-cold water to beat the heat. But unfortunately, your chickens aren’t able to do the same. They have to stay outside where it’s hot, and if you’re not careful they can overheat due to… Read more »

Recently, some poultry farmers have been integrating essential oils into their flocks’ diets. While there isn’t much research yet as to the effectiveness of essential oils, many farmers and backyard flock owners swear by them. Here, we examine some of the most commonly used essential oils for chickens. What are essential oils? Essential oils are… Read more »

A common challenge that many people who raise backyard chickens struggle with is keeping their chickens out of their garden. One day your garden may be fine, but the next you find it trampled and eaten. While some people just decide to get rid of their garden, there are ways for your chickens and your… Read more »

Here at Chickens for Backyards, we always talk about how beneficial raising backyard chickens can be. Not only can chickens provide a fresh batch of eggs and friendly companionship, they can also be a learning opportunity for our kids. Below are four lessons that your children will learn when they start raising backyard chickens. Responsibility… Read more »

Many chickens enjoy being spoiled, and luckily, there are easy ways to spoil your chickens in a healthy way. Like many other animals, chickens will recognize love when it is shown to them, especially when it comes to things like feeding. One of the easiest ways to establish a relationship with your chickens is to… Read more »

Predators are a threat to your chickens year-round, but they are especially dangerous in the winter and early spring months when food is scarce. However, you and your chickens are not helpless. You can take steps to protect your chickens from predators to ensure that they never have to experience an attack. Know the predators… 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 »

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 »

The life of a backyard chicken owner means always thinking a few steps ahead. While we may still be in the midst of summer, we also have to start thinking about the upcoming season–fall. Autumn is a time for pumpkins, falling leaves, and Thanksgiving dinners. It’s also the time for chickens to start molting. Every… Read more »

Female chickens, often referred to as hens, play an important role in the growth and development of their baby chicks. But they don’t do it alone! Male chickens, which are called roosters, also take on a lot of responsibility. From protecting the hens to seeking out food for others, male chickens play a prominent role… Read more »

When you’re starting a backyard flock, you first have to decide which species of bird you wish to raise. Do you want to raise ducks? Or do you want to raise chickens? Both species offer a rewarding experience, and indeed many people raise both! But in the beginning, it’s often best to start with one… 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 »

Earlier in the year, we discussed how best to take care of your chickens during the cold, winter months. But now that the temperatures are rising, we must turn our attention to the coming summer months. Summer, just like winter, brings its own host of challenges when caring for your backyard flock. As such, preparing… 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 »

We at Chickens for Backyards think that everyone should experience the joys of raising backyard chickens. But we also understand that many people have concerns about taking the leap into the world of chickens. While many of these concerns are legitimate, just as many are based on myths and misconceptions. That’s why we’re taking the… Read more »

For every person who raises backyard chickens, they will inevitably have to ask themselves the big question: should you or shouldn’t you feed your chickens probiotics? While some people hesitate, probiotics can be extremely beneficial to your chickens. This is especially the case if you’re raising your chickens for meat. Nevertheless, it’s always a good… 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 »

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 »

As our chickens age, they slow down and gradually stop producing eggs. But that doesn’t mean we don’t still love them. We want to take good care of them but caring for aging chickens is much different than caring for younger ones. After all, senior chickens face more health challenges, ailments, and they require different… Read more »

The whole point of backyard chickens is raising them in your backyard. It’s why this method of raising chickens is so appealing, from the city dweller to the country folk. However, chickens are curious by nature, and you may find some slipping away and wandering into your neighbor’s backyard. If you want to prevent your… Read more »

No matter their age, chickens love food. Providing them with the necessary feed and nutrients will ensure their happiness and their overall health. Yet, feeding your chickens is easier said than done. There are so many types of feed, treats, supplements, and techniques that it can confuse even the most experienced chicken owner. To make… Read more »

We all remember going to the doctor’s as a kid and getting our shots. While hardly a pleasant experience, those shots did protect us against a wide variety of diseases, from the flu to the measles. The same is true of chickens. Our poultry needs their vaccinations just as much as we do, though for… 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 »

Many people who want to get into raising backyard chickens often hesitate for one reason: their dogs. Dogs and chickens aren’t known to be compatible species, but if dogs and cats can live together, so too can dogs and chickens. With a little training and some care, you can get your dogs and chickens to… Read more »

Raising chickens is not easy work. It requires a lot of heavy lifting—literally—that can take its toll on your body. It’s not uncommon for people to wake up with sore muscles or an aching back, but you certainly don’t want this to become a regular occurrence. After all, taking care of yourself is just as… Read more »

“Biosecurity” is not a word we throw around very often, but it’s an important concept to understand when you’re raising backyard chickens. It refers to the steps we take to protect humans and animals from infectious diseases. As we have learned from dealing with the coronavirus, viruses can easily travel from animals to humans, and… Read more »

There are many reasons why people decide on free ranging their chickens. Birds are often happier and healthier, and as a result, they produce more eggs and are less likely to get sick. However, while there are many reasons to free range, there are also just as many reasons not to. Free ranging requires regular… 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 »

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 »

Have you caught your chickens eating their eggs? It’s a common, but serious problem that plagues many flocks, and the longer that you let it go on, the harder it is to stop. Here we discuss why chickens eat their eggs, and what you can do to stop it.  Why are my chickens eating their… 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 »

If you’re a chicken owner, you’ve likely had to spend at least a few nights tracking down each of your chickens before you go to bed. This is hardly how you want to spend your evening, which is why many chicken owners opt for training their chickens to return to the coop on their own…. 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 »

There’s no rule that when you start raising backyard chickens that you can only raise backyard chickens. In fact, there are plenty of other species that you can raise alongside your chickens including guinea fowl, turkeys, and, of course, ducks. Ducks are a great species to raise together with chickens, but there are some things… Read more »

You step out into your backyard and you notice feathers all across your lawn. Your immediate reaction is panic. Did a predator come into the coop? Did your chickens have a fight? While the situation may seem scary, it’s not always a reason to panic. There are many reasons why your chickens might be losing… Read more »

If you’re new to raising backyard chickens, you’re bound to make some mistakes. However, as the temperature turns colder, those mistakes can become dangerous for your flock. We’ve talked about what you should do when caring for your chickens in the wintertime, but there are also some things that you shouldn’t do in order to… Read more »

One of the joys of owning backyard chickens is having freshly laid eggs on your kitchen table. Yet, there may come a time when one or many of your chickens stop laying eggs. The reasons can be varied, ranging from age to more serious health concerns. Nutrition If your chickens stop laying eggs, then the… Read more »

Wintertime can bring a whole host of challenges, especially if you’re a chicken owner. While some chickens are built to withstand the cold, all chickens will still need some protection. As such, you’ll need to take extra precautions to keep your chickens happy and healthy throughout the tough winter season. Keep them warm This should… 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 »

Just because you live in the city doesn’t mean you don’t enjoy a taste of the country life. Raising chickens can help you do just that, but it does come with some problems. Fussy neighbors, lack of space, and city ordinances are all things that you will have to contend with if you plan on… Read more »

Every chicken owner should be aware of possible predators that threaten livestock. As previously discussed on our blog, understanding which animals might prey on your chickens can better prepare you to ensure the safety and security of your property and your chickens. At Chickens for Backyards, we strive to inform chicken owners about possible predators,… Read more »

Of all the predators that chickens face, cats pose as a unique threat. For one, they’re a common house pet, and it doesn’t matter if they’re domesticated—their hunting instincts are innate and will come out no matter what. Secondly, they’re all over the United States, living as barn cats to stray cats to outdoor cats…. Read more »

While we all recognize that chickens are incredible livestock. It’s important to keep in mind how vulnerable they are as well. Predators of all shapes and sizes target chickens, and we’ve spent a fair amount of time on this blog, detailing the many animals that fall into this category. Today, we’re here to discuss another… Read more »

There are a lot of critters out there who are classified as chicken predators, even some that you might never expect. Chickens for Backyards can help you identify potential predators that might be after your chickens such as badgers. Other Chicken Predators Skunks Raccoons Coyotes Bobcats Cats Snakes About Badgers Badgers are found throughout the… Read more »

There are several predators that will attack, and likely kill, the chickens in your backyard if you’re don’t take appropriate steps to protect them. We have already highlighted a variety of chicken predators on our blog but you can now add raccoons to that list. Raccoons are yet another predator that you need to look… 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 »

We like to think we’re the only ones watching out for our chickens and that once they’re on our property; it’s just us and them. Unfortunately, there are many animals in the wild that are just waiting for a moment to strike at chickens, especially skunks. Other Chicken Predators Coyotes Raccoons Badgers Bobcats Cats Snakes… Read more »

The large majority of the United States has experienced a massive heat wave over the course of the last few weeks. As an animal owner, extreme temperatures can be worrisome. If you’re hot, it’s highly likely that your animals are too, chickens included. Fortunately, there are easy changes you can make to help cool your… Read more »

If you’re planning on adding chickens into your backyard coop or welcoming them into your farm family, you should strongly consider vaccinating them first. There are a wide range of vaccinations available for chicks that are designed to protect them from serious diseases. Common Diseases Some diseases that chickens are likely to catch without a… 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 »

Consumers are constantly bombarded with labels like “No hormones” and “No additives” on packages of chicken, but what exactly do all those designations mean? The National Chicken Council (NCC), the oldest and largest national organization in the U.S. representing the broiler chicken industry, is working to clear up some of that confusion by issuing new… Read more »

During the day, your chickens probably spend most of their time cooling off in the shade or roaming around your property foraging for insects. Chickens aren’t known for their flying abilities, so they tend to stay close to the ground unless they’re forced to a higher perch by the threat of a predator. But your… Read more »