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Fall migration can increase the chance that wild birds bring avian influenza near backyard flocks. Learn how covered feed and water, clean footwear, careful visitor habits, and daily observation can help protect your chickens.

If dark brown eggs are high on your backyard flock wish list, Marans and Welsummers are two breeds worth considering. Both are known for laying beautiful brown eggs, but they differ in appearance, egg color, temperament, size, and the kind of backyard setup they fit best.

Shopping for baby chicks comes with its own vocabulary. Terms like pullet, cockerel, straight run, hen, and rooster may seem simple once you have been raising chickens for a while, but they can be confusing when you are building your first flock.

Pumpkin season is here, and if you have a backyard flock, you may be wondering whether your chickens can enjoy some of the season too. The good news is that chickens can eat pumpkin, including the flesh and seeds, making it an easy fall treat to share with your flock.

Fall can make even an experienced chicken keeper stop and stare at the flock for a minute. One hen looks thin around the neck. Another has feathers sticking out in every direction.

f the number of eggs in your basket suddenly drops when fall arrives, do not panic. Your hens have not forgotten their job, and they are probably not hiding a secret pile of eggs just to keep you guessing. Although that does happen sometimes.

Summer can be hard on backyard flocks, especially once the hottest stretch of the season settles in. Even chickens that handled the early part of summer well can start to struggle when day after day stays hot and muggy.

One of the most exciting stages of backyard chicken keeping is waiting for that first egg. As pullets grow, it is natural to start wondering when egg laying will begin and what signs to watch for.

Rare chicken breeds often catch people’s attention right away. They may have unusual feather patterns, striking colors, or unique features that set them apart in the coop.

You also have to consider noise, space, and how your flock fits into the day-to-day rhythm of a suburb or city backyard.

For backyard flock owners who want something a little different, ducks can be a great option for egg production.