I planted a border of wormwood around the chicken run because the internet said it would deworm my flock naturally. Three weeks later, one of my hens had tremors. That’s when I learned the difference between a remedy and a poison is usually just the dose. And that chickens, despite their reputation for knowing what’s … Read more
I built my first dust bath on a Tuesday. By Thursday, the chickens were still bathing in the bare dirt next to it. That’s when I realized chickens know something about dust baths that most guides don’t mention: location matters more than ingredients. Why Chickens Take Dust Baths (And Why Yours Might Not) A dust … Read more
The first time I saw a Silkie, I thought someone had glued cotton balls to a chicken. Then I picked it up. The feathers felt like rabbit fur. The bird sat in my hands like it had been waiting there its whole life. I looked at my husband and said, “We’re getting these.” Silkie chickens … Read more
I stood in the feed store last February holding a bag that cost more than my weekly groceries, wondering if I’d made a mistake. Six months later, I cracked open an egg with a yolk so orange it looked fake. The chickens were out back, doing what they always do, making something from almost nothing. … Read more
As backyard chicken owners, we’re always on the hunt for smarter ways to keep our flocks happy, healthy, and clean. When I first heard people using sand as chicken coop bedding, I was skeptical. Isn’t sand too rough, too cold, or just plain odd? But once I made the switch, I realized exactly why more … Read more
Thinking about raising backyard chickens but not sure how to build the ultimate coop? When I first got into chicken keeping, I quickly realized that a poorly planned setup leads to a lot of stress—for both the birds and me. Without the right design, daily care becomes a hassle, and worse, your flock’s health and … Read more
Chickens aren’t just for farms anymore—they’re transforming backyards into productive, eco-friendly havens. Beyond their fresh, nutrient-packed eggs, these quirky birds bring surprising benefits, from pest control to natural lawn care. With 16 compelling reasons to start your flock, backyard chickens might just be the most entertaining, sustainable, and rewarding addition to your home. Ready to … Read more
Cluck, cluck! Ready to turn your backyard into a cozy chicken haven? With over 85 million backyard chickens across the country¹, the popularity of keeping chickens is soaring. But creating a safe and comfortable coop is essential to keep your flock healthy and happy. A well-designed chicken coop does more than provide shelter—it supports egg-laying, … Read more
As winter settles in, many backyard chicken keepers brace for the cold, but here’s the surprising truth: chickens are tougher than you think. With natural insulation and an ability to handle frigid temps, most poultry thrive without costly winter extras. According to the University of Minnesota Extension, chickens stay comfortable between 60 and 75 degrees … Read more
Thinking about joining the backyard chicken craze? You’re not alone—egg consumption in the U.S. is projected to hit 285.1 eggs per person by 2024¹. But raising chickens isn’t all fresh eggs and cozy coops. From feeding mishaps to coop catastrophes, novice keepers often make mistakes that ruffle more than just feathers. Here are 15 of … Read more
