For The Love Of Chickens - Blog

Hatching Baby Chicks This Spring?

2012-02-21T20:41:00.001-08:00

Hatching baby chicks using an incubator is an awesome experience especially, I think, for the whole family to take part in. Seeing those tiny babies emerge from their shells inspires such reverence for life! Soon, it'll be March, and that officially begins hatching season. If you've never had this experience, might be a good idea to learn some of the basics about hatching chicks using an incubator so the result will be a happy and fulfilling.

First, let's make a list of everything you'll need to have on hand:

An incubator
Fertile Eggs
A brooder for after the babies are hatched
Cleaning supplies
The knowledge of what to do with all of the above,when to do it, and how to do it

Okay, let's begin with the incubator. You can get incubators that automatically turn the eggs (more on that later). They are a bit more expensive than the older models, but the convenience factor is great. It's pretty difficult for busy families to coordinate a new and necessary task so that it actually gets done right and at the required time. Consideration needs to be given to where you locate the incubator. The temperature in the room where you keep the incubator should be between 70 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit, shouldn't be be exposed to direct sunlight, and needs to be free of drafts and wide temperature variations. Always, even if the incubator is brand new, check to make sure it's in great operating condition before getting your eggs. I'll write a follow-up post in a couple of days with some examples of incubators and their features; you can compare costs and workmanship.

So, where do the fertile eggs come from? Obviously, if you already have chickens, with at least one rooster, they'll come from your back yard. But, that's likely not the case. If it were, you'd probably let one of your hens set and raise a brood - more difficult to see the babies hatch, but still a great experience. A reliable source, especially if you have your heart set on a specific breed, is to order hatching eggs from one of the hatcheries. Or, you could get them locally from someone who raises chickens and has at least one rooster on the premises. You could also contact your county extension office or a local avian veterinarian for references to the right resources.

The eggs shouldn't be more than 7 days old when placed in the incubator. They should be handled as little as possible. Before placing them in the manual incubator, be sure to mark each one. Most people mark one side with an "X and the other side with an "0". That way, if you keep track you can tell whether each egg was turned. The ideal temperature in the incubator should fluctuate between 99 and 103 degrees Fahrenheit for the eggs to hatch. Overheating is more often a cause of failure than under-heating. Humidity is also very important - a new incubator will come with all the necessary instructions. It'll take 21 days before the eggs will hatch. After the 17th day, they should no longer be turned. The air opening of the incubator will need to be adusted from time to time, as the closer the chicks are to being hatched, the more oxygen (and less carbon dioxide) they'll require.

After the baby chicks have hatched, they'll need to be transferred to their brooder, which should be set up and turned on so it'll be at the proper heat for them in time for the transfer. One they're removed from the incubator, it will need to be thoroughly cleaned. This will be a lot easier if you've spread some cheesecloth on the rack on about day seventeen so the egg shells can be picked up. Wipe the incubator down with a sponge and soap and water. Leave the door open so it can air out for a few days before putting it away. It'll be all ready for the next time.

The brooder will need to have been pr-heated to a temperature of 95 degrees Fahrenheit, and each week that is lowered by five degrees. The babies will need fresh water and feed, but restrain yourself from handling them for a couple of days - they've been through a lot and need to recover. They'll grow quickly and will be ready to be put outdoors by the time they're about six weeks old, so make sure you have a home waiting for them.

There, you have an overview of what's involved with hatching baby chicks in an incubator. You'll want to read about it more to ensure you're aware of every detail before setting out to enjoy this adventure, but this covers the basics. Enjoy.

Pet Chicken Keeping - Laws and Regulations

2012-02-10T16:16:00.000-08:00

A fellow pet chicken enthusiast, Nate Smith, is my guest blogger today. Nate relates that he's been homesteading and dealing with backyard chickens for a number of years. He contributed the following article to encourage people who are looking to begin raising chickens. The article details his experience, advice and recommended steps to take before getting to that exciting day when you actually bring home your first baby chicks. His article is titled in accordance to what he says is the question he gets asked most often, "Can I Keep Chickens in My Backyard?"
Nate is from Utah and is the owner of backyardhenhouse.com and chickensaloon.com. Cool chicken houses there! Enjoy!
After you've read the article, you can reach Nate at support@backyardhenhouse.com with your questions/comments. Welcome aboard, Nate!

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Can I Keep Chickens in My Backyard?

by Nate Smith

If you made the decision that you would like to try your hand at keeping some chickens in your backyard, there are a few considerations that you might want to make first, and although you have probably thought of some of these, there just might be a few that may come as a surprise.

Legality of Raising Backyard Chickens

Probably the very first question you should ask yourself about raising chickens is, can I raise chickens in my backyard? You know, legally. I know, I know. If you are slightly stubborn like I tend to be you are probably saying to yourself, 'this is my property, so surely I can do whatever I want on it'! Am I right? If that thought crossed your mind, or anything at all along those lines, trust me, I know where you're coming from. Here's the deal.

If you live within the boundaries of a city as most (but not all) of us do, you will want to start out by getting info on whether or not you can even keep chickens in your backyard while staying within the confines of the law. The last thing you want to do is to build or buy a chicken coop, purchase a few starter hens, buy some food, get the entire family excited about the adventure that lies ahead, only to have a bureaucrat pay you a visit and let you know (kindly or otherwise), that what you are doing is against a city ordinance and that not only will you have to get rid of your new chicks, you will also have to pony up a fine they've decided to hand you. What a slap in the face!

Basic Types of Zoning and Chickens

There are a few different types of zoning that exist, each one having different laws and regulations on what you will and will not be able to do. If your property happens to be zoned as agricultural, then you probably won't have any problem raising chickens or constructing any type of chicken coop you might want to have. Most people reading this article will not fit that description however, and will live on property that is zoned as residential. Don't let that discourage you in regards to chicken-raising, as many, many residential areas will allow people to raise a few chickens on their property. The best thing you can do to make sure is to contact your city and simply ask them if there are any ordinances on raising chickens on raising chickens in your backyard, and what they are. You will find typically that there are two different areas of laws that will affect what you are able to do. First, there are often laws specific to the actual birds. How many birds you are able to have on your property (it might depend on the size of your property), what sex they can be (roostera anyone?), and in some cases, although it's not extremely common, you might even have to get written permission from your neighbors! I know, that last one sounds a bit strange. You haven't burned any bridges there, have you? The second set of laws have to do with the type of housing you use for your chickens. How large can your chicken coop be? Do you have to get a permit to build or even own a chicken coop in your backyard? Will this chicken coop need to be inspected?

I hope I haven't scared you away from the idea of even wanting to start raising chickens in your backyard, and honestly I believe I have found some of the more extreme laws that you might want to, as your own city ordinance might include anything from having nearly no regulations at all, to maybe justone or two of these issues, which might not seem like much of a problem at all. Remember, as you are going into this and inquiring about the local laws of your city just remember that joy of fresh eggs, chickens and the family experience is all very much worth it in the end!

A Personal Example on Chicken Keeping Laws

It has been a number of years now that raising chickens in your backyard has been allowed here in my city. In regards to how many chickens can be kept here, a person can keep up to 12 chickens, depending on the size of your property. Anywhere from house lots as small as 5,000 square feet keeping just two chickens, up to larger lots being allowed 12. There was a small public hearing where people were able to voice their opinions on the matter. For the most part it was thought that people being able to raise chickens in their backyard was fine, and that there really wasn't any detriment at all.

Even public oficials mentioned that when it came to complaints about chickens from neighbors (which were extremely rare as it is), the complaints were never about noise, and never about the smell (neither of these things seemed to be any problem at all). The only complaints on file were for the occasional chicken getting loose, which was promptly gathered and put back in its place. I'm sure we can all point to that neighbor of ours that would be first to complain about the slightest inconvenience, or really anything at all.

Whatever the case may be where you live, make sure you have it on good authority that you are able to keep chickens before going out and finding chicks and a chicken coop. Don't take the advice of a friend, a neighbor or a real estate agent even someone near you that might be raising chickens. Sometimes when laws are passed that ban certain things, those practicing before the law came into affect are exempt from the new law; they are grandfathered in.

What if my City Does Not Allow Backyard Chickens?

If you find that your municipality does not allow raising chickens, don't panic just yet. All may not be lost. The process of getting a simple law like this changed is often times much more simple than you might think. You might be asked to attend a city council meeting to state your case, and often times that will be enough for the city to take a vote on the issue, and I think often times you will find that no onewants to be the lone councilman putting their foot down on people wanting to become more self-sustaining. Be patient on the matter as this process doesn't usually happen overnight. It can take months for the ball to get rolling, but you can be a part of making great changes in your area if you stick with it. If you can find others in your area that back you on this issue and will be willing to work with you, even better.

Free Range Chicken Gardens - Review

2012-02-10T13:37:00.000-08:00

Check it out here

Are your chickens free ranged? If so, the book I blogged about last post could help you a lot.

Of course, that was a couple of weeks ago . . . I know, I must be an awfully slow reader, hmm? Truth is, some overtime came up at work this month, too.

Anyway, I've read the whole book now. Even if you already have lots of experience with gardening, I'm betting you'll learn some new info. The author has a degree in Horticulture, which adds credibility and perspective. It's not just about raising food, but explains how we can integrate our pet chicken hobby with our landscaping plans to end up with a beautiful garden. Beautiful photos and stories about several families' who've succeeded in combining their gardens with happy, healthy pet chickens. Includes 'how-to' info on getting started with chickens, too, in case you're still in the planning stages.
Well worth the price - highly recommended!
Free - Range Chicken Garden by Jessi Bloom

Chickens and Free Range Gardens

2012-01-20T00:18:00.000-08:00

Free Range Chicken Gardens is the name of a new book published by Timberpress. They're having a contest - but there's not a lot of time! There are some great prizes for the contest winner (I signed up, secretly hoping I'll be the only one). Kidding, sorta . . . pretty sure I'm not the only one addicted to books.

The book cover - Looks great, doesn't it?

The book above looks like a good reference for troubleshooting what went wrong, afterward . . . but might just help to read it first and avoid doing things wrong the first time. This year I am having a nice garden - I think I need both of these books. Still a lot of work to do on the 'ol homestead -6 years later.

Anyway, go on over to sign up at http://www.timberpress.com/chickens/.
This book is just in time for us all to get ready for spring planting, and you really should check it out (the prizes, too).

Stay warm, it's down in the 20's and we're pretty much snowbound up here in the mountains, but all the animals are doing well. BRRR.

Backyard Chickens Training Announcement

2012-01-09T19:24:00.000-08:00

Backyard Chickens enthusiasts . . . Got plans for Feb. 4th? If you live in the Mid-Atlantic region, this is for you! Just heard about this great training on raising chickens - it's to be held at the University of Maryland. The link below will fill you in:

http://carroll.edu/ag/poultry.cpm

Pet Chicken Predators Mistaken - Ooops!

2012-01-01T22:20:00.000-08:00

Predators of chickens come in all shapes and sizes, and from different directions. Silly me - last post I said I'd set out my Have a Heart trap, thinking I'd capture a raccoon. Wrong! There were no results at all for the longest time, then one morning I went out and heard . . . guess what! "Meow!"

Yep, one of the neighbors cats, an orange little cutie, I think her name is 'Trixi'. She very gracefully walked away when I opened the trap door. One great reason to use this type of trap! Anyway, guess she wasn't too fazed, she's been coming over almost every day since.

The attack actually came from the sky, an owl, I now believe, as I've seen a couple around from day to day. I need to put a couple of nite guard lights facing up to discourage owls and other winged predators. They really do work, I can say for sure! When I moved to this wilderness place and told the neighbors I planned to raise chickens, one of them said "Oh, bear food, huh?" That was about five years ago - now all the neighbors are raising chickens!

Everyone is well, even one the hen that was hurt. She's perking up for the New Year. I've had her in her own private little pen for awhile now, and she's eating and drinking almost like normal, just needed a little TLC.

Happy New Year, if you've read this far down! It's going to be a great one, for you, too, I hope!

Predators Coming Around - Probably Raccoons

2011-12-13T15:30:00.000-08:00

One of my pet chickens was attacked a few days ago, pretty sure its a sign that there are raccoons in the area again. I've set out (humane) traps, so far, nothing. She's perking up now, and looks like she's gonna make it. Poor little thing.

Whatever it was reached through the fence and grabbed her, glad I was home . . . heard the commotion and got outside right away. It took off. Last time I caught a raccoon, I transported it waaaay up in the mountains on a logging road - that'll be tough right now, because of snow.

If anyone who's ordered my well dressed chicken models from The Runway Chicks (note cards - or tee shirts, etc.) is reading this, just want to say "Thank You". It's a partnership between me and my 'fashionista" business partner (she says designing the little outfits and hand sewing them is "so relaxing and fun") she's planning a "Runway Chicks of the Month" program, at least until she runs out of ideas. It was hard to guess whether they'd 'catch on', but the signs are good so far.
Anyway, the little bit of profit helps to pay the website expenses and all, so I appreciate it very much!

If you haven't had a chance to see them yet, just go on over to http://therunwaychicks.com. They really are cute!

Pet Chickens You've Never Seen Before-And a Unique Idea For Christmas Gifts

2011-12-09T13:53:00.000-08:00

Pet Chickens modelling chic fashions . . . and you finally get to see them! Let me know what you think, okay? Here's the link:
http://www.therunwaychicks.com/

Pet Chickens Asked to Model Fashionable Attire! Sneak Peek - but act fast

2011-11-28T17:55:00.000-08:00

Okay, this is going to sound a little weird . . . you ready? Well, it was a day like any other - full of drudgery (ahem, don't tell my boss!) when out of the blue I got the call.
My friend wanted to know if she could use my (rather tame) chickens to model some fashionable creations. Uh, really??! "Yes" she said. She told me this story:
She'd seen a sign at a county fair in the poultry 4-H quarters, announcing a contest for 'Best Dressed Chicken'. Having had a 'passion for fashion' for years, her imagination took over and she began to design and hand-sew what she insisted were "to-die-for" outfits. Along the way, she'd learned that it was a relaxing, enjoyable hobby and that it brought out her creativity. How could I not be intrigued? I mean how often could this happen in the life of an everyday habitual chicken raising enthusiast?
Here's the scoop - this is something I've become kind of excited about. The modelling session is over, and my chickens performed like born (er, hatched) professional models! Talk about cute chicks!! But, the people to see these photos first are those who've signed up at http://www.fortheloveofchickens.com . It only seems fair-they entrusted me with their first names and email addresses. Plus, I've fallen down on the job of following up, so most of them probably surmise that I died in the past few months. They'll get a broadcast about these sharply dressed chicks in just a couple of days -- if you want to be among the very first to see these photos, just click on the link above, enter your name and email address, and you'll be part of a special few. By signing up you have access to my book on fitting and showing chickens, pretty informative - though I don't like to blow my own horn (honestly).
Get it now, before you forget. They really do look awfully cute - it's gonna make you smile! Then, hope you'll give me your feedback about it.

Pet Chickens Update

2011-11-18T22:10:00.000-08:00

Baby chicks from last post are growing like weeds and staying healthy. One of the babies is starting to spar with Daddy Rooster - that relationship may end. The other four are pullets, so are very docile.

The other night, I went out to get in my truck only to find there was a bobcat under it - he sauntered off seemingly unafraid, without any confrontation. Up here in the Cascade mountains we had our first little snowstorm of the season;warmed up later in the day melting it all. Just equipped the truck with new snow tires, so am as ready as possible.

Here's another fairly new family. Mama Hen is an Ameraucana. You can also see my Japanese Bantam Rooster on the left and Ameraucana Bantam Rooster to his right. So far, everyone is doing well, hopefully, the same is true for you and your chickens (and other animals-everyone who has chickens usually has a whole managerie, as well).
Feel free to continue contacting me (for all of those who are already keeping in touch). Or email me with any specific questions at scott@fortheloveofchickens.com - I enjoy hearing from all of you.

Baby Chicks . . . Doting Parents

2011-11-02T00:03:00.000-07:00

A Mom, Grandma, and rooster teaming up to raise five baby chicks. The other night, I found the rooster, a Red Jungle Fowl, roosting with a baby chick under each wing. The mother hens (one a grandma to the chicks) are an Ameracauna and a Red Jungle Fowl. It's a little late in the year, but they're doing great.

The photo below actually shows all the babies.

Quite the little family.

Baby chicks galore - and two mama hens

2011-09-11T21:53:00.000-07:00

Much to my surprise, I went out to feed my chickens one day last week and noticed two hens acting rather strange . . . they were lying close together side-by-side with their feathers plumped up. Didn't take much to figure it out once I put my hand out to reach for one of them. She didn't like it - at all. Somehow, I had missed a few days of this shared broodiness.

These two hens have decided "it takes a village", I guess, to raise baby chicks. They seem to be sharing the role of mama hen, and it looks like there are at least 14 eggs between them. Yesterday, I counted 5 that had hatched.

I've fenced off their little shared nest and will keep a close eye on them. This is the first time any of my hens have doubled up like this - interesting.

Tame chickens do best in competition

2011-09-01T22:29:00.000-07:00

Tame chickens are much more fun to spend time with, and, they consistently do better in competition. Think about it from the perspective of a judge - calm, well behaved chickens make you look more in control and professional. Who wants to worry about 'losing' an entry?

If you want your chickens to make the judge look good (and be rewarded for it), spend plenty of time with your chickens . . . pet them, teach them little 'tricks' in response to an offer of treats, and practice placing them in and taking them out of a show cage repeatedly.

Also, go through the process of checking combs and wattles, lifting the wings, checking the vent, and examining the legs of your chickens. That's what the judge does in order to assign points to your entries, and if your chicken remains calm and 'unruffled' throughout the process, you'll have a good chance of winning.

Of course, you will have had to've done your due diligence when deciding which chickens to show. This includes checking every trait, color, shape, and all the other important points to ensure your entry is as close as possible to the Standard of Perfection for that breed.

More fairs and competitions are still coming up this month - best wishes to everyone for a fun, educational, and successful experience.

On my website at www.fortheloveofchickens.com, I offer a free e-book on the subject of fitting and showing chickens - it's pretty complete, covers everything I've learned over the past 25 years or so about showing chickens.

Showing Chickens at the Fair - Good Job, all!

2011-08-14T14:03:00.000-07:00

Show chickens are relaxing and enjoying their homecoming after a few days at the fair this last week. How'd they do? Well, sure can't complain - 10 out of 10 isn't bad - for blue ribbons. Budget cuts reduced the ribbons to blue, white, and red this year, but there is a Premium check on the way -- it'll be enough to buy a bag of feed, so no complaints there, either.

Will take photos of each bird this next weekend (they deserve some R&R for a few days) with their ribbons, and post them ASAP.

There were fewer Open Class entries than last year (probably due to the economy), but a new young crop of competitors, which was great to see. If you're raising chickens, but haven't started showing them yet, be sure to download my free book over at my website to help you get started. I know you're gonna love it (the showing, more than the book, though it'll really give you an advantage)!

Pet Chickens - the Trip to the Fair

2011-08-11T02:23:00.000-07:00

Well, finally . . . everyone is bathed, nails clipped, spiffied up and beautiful, or handsome, if appropriate. Ten little chickens camping out at the local fair for a few days. Whew! Thought I'd never get them all ready. Had to stop for gas on the way, and the chickens made quite a stir with a few bystanders.

Once there, the first step was, of course, Vet check. A licensed Veterinarian is always on hand, he handled each bird, checked the vent and under the wings, and did a quick examination throughout. It's an important step, as no one wants their chickens to catch any diseases from someone else's bird. Of course, this is done with every single animal brought in.

Lot of entries, it looked like, had to park way out in the last row. Will report results. In the meantime love to hear your showing experiences, or answer your questions if you're new to showing. It really is fun, once you get to stop and take a breath after getting ready.

Tame Chickens - Young Old English are Surprisingly Tame

2011-08-02T17:09:00.000-07:00

The most tame chickens I have right now are a group of eight Old English, they're just growing up and love to fly up on my shoulders when I let them range outside their run. Some of them will be going to the fair later this month, hopefully they'll do well. The hatchery sent a great variety and all of them are very healthy, not to mention beautiful.

This week will be busy, bathing and closely examining each of my entries. The fair required early sign-up, so will have to stick with the breeds I listed. So far, everybody looks pretty good. Can't wait to exhibit them and spend some time with other chicken enthusiasts. Of course, I'm missing those giant ice cream treats I can't help indulging in every year, too. Can't beat fair food!

A Pet Chicken Story

2011-07-25T00:52:00.000-07:00

Pet Chicken Addicted kids? Someone sent me the information about the book below, thought I'd share it--sounds like a great story-and it's written by a fellow chicken enthusiast! There's a contest going on right now and you can get this book FREE!
Click the following link to get all the details: http://www.thechildrensbookreview.com/weblog/2011/07/giveaway-the-true-story-of-cinderella.html The contest ends soon, so act ASAP.
By Bianca Schulze, The Children’s Book Review
Published: July 12, 2011
We know you’ve always wanted to know the true story of Cinderella. So
here is your chance: Enter to win one of three signed copies of The True Story of Cinderella, by Sandra Hammond. Giveaway begins July 12, 2011, at 12:01 A.M. PST and ends August 9, 2011, at 11:59 P.M. PST.
Reading Level: 4-8
Paperback: 32 pages
Book overview: How hard can raising chickens be? So many things to learn and find out. But why do it the easy way? You’ll laugh at this true story of a city gal’s adventure in her first crack at chicken farming.
About the author: Sandra Hammond grew up mostly in the Los Angeles area until moving to Arizona for seven years with her husband Chris. After earning a teaching credential in Elementary Education at Northern Arizona University, she and her family moved back to Southern California. She now lives in Ventura County with her husband and three children. She has been working as a substitute teacher for over thirteen years in the Conejo Valley, from pre-school to jr. high. Sandra enjoys mountain biking, hiking, camping, and writing. She has twelve chickens, one named Cinderella, that inspired her to write her first book The True Story of Cinderella. Her dream is to raise chickens on a small farm some day in Colorado while continuing her writing career and working with children. Her second book, A Day with Duke, is available now. Her third book, Thieves in the Night will be out in the fall of 2011!

How to enter:

A Sitting Hen - How to Protect Her

2011-07-19T11:33:00.000-07:00

A broody hen, when you free range your flock during the day, can sometimes appear to be lost. Not too many people live way out in the mountains, but I do, and awhile back I thought one of my favorite hens had been attacked and probably killed. I found her though, sitting on a clutch of eggs hidden by tall grass toward the edge of my property.

When this happens, it's advisable to put up a fence around her until the baby chicks have hatched. Doesn't need to be very big . . . maybe 3 square feet for standard breeds or 2 for bantams. I often drive tent stakes into the ground to keep animals out and drape a net over the enclosure. Then, put water and feed in the enclosure for her. Check on her as often as possible, but imagine a "do not disturb" sign is up.

In a case like this, you really can't tell what stage the eggs are in, and it's not advisable to pick the hen off the nest to check. You've maybe experienced their displeasure if you've ever attempted that - they can peck pretty hard, and actually injure you.

Only thing you can do is listen for peeps or watch for tiny heads popping out from beneath the mama hen. Then you'll know it's time to set out some chick starter and water for the babies. Some people will move the hen and eggs closer in to a more protected area when found, others prefer to leave her as protected as possible undisturbed. After the babies come out from under the hen, the little family can be easily moved closer to the rest of the flock, but should be kept separate from the rest for awhile just for safety. If it's really cold, you can add a heatlamp or bring the babies into a brooder.

Caring for chickens during hot weather

2011-07-14T00:01:00.000-07:00

Chickens are quite vulnerable to heat; it's actually harder on them than freezing winter temperatures. If you notice yours are panting and have become lethargic, try to provide them with a shady area away from the direct sunlight, replace their water often, and feed them (just layer feed-scratch will raise their body temperature) in the early morning and evening after it cools down. Metabolizing their food makes them hotter. Plus, like us, they just aren't as hungry while it's hot.

In some instances, it's good to put a fan inside the chicken coop to keep the air circulating. Some people like to use a chicken tractor so that they can move their flock to cooler areas as the day progresses. It's likely that egg production will go down some during the hottest summer days.

It's best to refrain from petting or handling your birds during a heat wave. They'll be better off if they're free to go where they're most comfortable and 'chill '. Calm birds stay cooler.

Where I live temperatures are lower than many areas (especially this year), so if you have any tips or secrets for hot weather flock management, do please share for the benefit of others.

Chicken Health - Keep a Close Eye on Your Flock

2011-07-01T02:39:00.000-07:00

A couple of chicken questions I've been asked lately:

1. Do chickens get more or less healthy as they age?

Though they develop a resistance to some diseases, they also become more susceptible to other diseases that commonly affect older birds. Some factors that affect the health of your flock are bringing in new birds frequently, having neighboring birds nearby, and fitting and showing your chickens.

2. How do you tell whether your chickens are healthy? Check how they look: Are their eyes bright and lively? Are their combs bright, waxy in appearance? Check their feathers; have they retained their sheen? Check their legs and vents, as well as underneath their wings, no parasites? Great!

Unless it's unusually hot, your chickens should be at their normal activity level, moving most of the time throughout the day scratching around, preening themselves, taking dust baths, and generally pecking at whatever is nearby.
Listen to the sounds your chicks make, and when things are a little off-note, you'll recognize it. Normally chickens cluck and make contented sounds when they're healthy. Sneezing and coughing are signs that something's amiss. You'll get used to what's normal concerning the number of eggs each of your hens lays, if she suddenly stops laying or the eggs are thin-shelled or shaped differently than normal, that's a signal that she may be ill. Pick up each of your birds at least weekly, you'll be able to tell whether they're gaining or losing weight. If that's an issue, and it's not molting season, or the hen isn't broody, keep a close eye on her. Check their droppings, for unusual color or odor, as that's a common sign indicating illness. If a hen begins molting, egg production will decrease, so that's normal.

Taming and Training chickens for the Fairs

2011-06-23T18:34:00.000-07:00

Taming and training chickens for the fair competitions coming up is likely on the minds of a lot of people these days. Most of my birds are pretty tame already, but cage training is still necessary.

Judges favor entries that are calm and well behaved, so it pays to practice cage training as consistently as possible. If you're new to fitting and showing your birds, here's how I prepare my birds:

1. Using a wire cage similar to the type used at fairs, place your chicken in it. Practice handling the bird properly and place it in the cage, then out again a couple of minutes later. You'll want your chicken to become accustomed to this, as that's how the judge will do it when he/she inspects the bird.
2. Move on to the other exercises practiced by the judge. This includes inspecting the comb, eyes, wattles, and head shape. Then you'll want to spread the wings, check to ensure there are no missing or broken feathers. Finally, check the vent and tail feathers. Examine the feet to make sure the entry has the correct
number of toes, leg color is according to Standard, that the scales are flat and no parasites are present.
3. Continue this routine daily for two or three weeks prior to the competition. If one of the birds you'd like to show is wild and flighty, try going out to the roost after dark, lift the bird off and take some time petting and handling it. You'll be surprised to see the tameness in a bird after spending just 15-20 minutes a day with it.

Often times a judge will lean toward a chicken that is calm and easy to handle, versus a perfect specimen that is unpleasant to work with.

If you'd like more info on fitting and showing chickens feel free to download my book that's available from my website.

Pet Chicken, Return of Black Beauty

2011-06-13T22:56:00.000-07:00

Broody hens often disappear this time of the year, but Black Beauty never showed any signs of wanting to set. I thought she'd been caught by an owl, raccoon, or some other enemy to chickens. After a two week search, she's back.

Black Beauty is a Black Sumatra, beautiful, and a special pet. I'm happy to report she's back sharing the roost with the rest of the flock. It's always a big relief . . . a happy ending to the story.

Black Sumatra's are a fairly rare breed, they're used for showing, but aren't great egg producers. They were brought to the U.S. from the country of Sumatra.

Welcome back, Black Beauty!

Baby Chicks, Care, Feeding, and Taming

2011-06-08T22:16:00.000-07:00

Baby chicks are pretty much like babies of all species in that they need a little help. First of all, when you first get them as little fluffballs in the mail from your favorite hatchery they need to be shown how to drink. Of course the brooder must be all warmed up and ready for them with their food ready for them. Take them out of the box they arrived in one at a time and quickly dip their little beaks in their water container so they'll know how to drink and where to find the food and water.

They learn very quickly and soon become adept at getting the nourishment they need to reach young adulthood. In addition to keeping the brooder clean and making sure they don't run out of anything, there's one "job" you'll want to do regularly. I usually wait two or three days to start this, but then I begin spending considerable time holding and petting each one . . . not for very long at a time, but a couple of times each day. This starts the taming process, which turns chickens into pets . . . but be sure to continue handling them even after they grow up. (Lot's more info on this over at http://www.fortheloveofchickens.com/ - plus a free book on fitting and showing, if you're interested).

Tame chickens are such a pleasure to be around and they do much better when showing them at the fairs when they're not flighty for the judges.

Pet chickens, "no", but frugality and sustainability? "Indeed!"

2011-06-04T00:03:00.000-07:00

My family found this poem that my Grandma had packed away . . . boy, are we ever lucky these days. At least we can be comfortable. Amusing, though -- Enjoy!

The Flour Sack

. . . Author unknown

When I was a maiden fair

Mama made our underwear.

With many kids and dad's poor pay,

We had no fancy lingerie

Monograms and fancy stitches

Did not adorn our Sunday britches.

Panty waist that stood the test

Had "Gold Medal" on my breast.

No lace or ruffles to enhance

Just "Occident" across my pants.

One pair of panties beat them all,

For it had a scene I still recall

Harvesters were gleaning wheat

Right across my seat!

Rougher than a grizzly bear

Was my floursack underwear.

Plain, not fancy, two feet wide

And tougher than a hippo's hide.

All through depression, each Jill and Jack,

Wore the sturdy garb of sack.

Waste not, want not learned,

That a penny saved is a penny earned.

There were curtains and tea towels, too,

And that is just to name a few.

But the best, beyond compare,

Was my flour sack underwear.

The End

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

Guess we live in pretty good times, hmm? . . .

Chickens and Grandma

2011-05-22T20:02:00.000-07:00

This last week my Grandmother passed away - a strong, kind, hardworking woman from the 'olden days' when she and most everyone she knew raised chickens, had a garden, and basically practiced sustainable living just as a matter of course, not to mention, necessity. The word "sustainable" may not have been used, but the action was practiced through frugality and what we now call "recycling". Grandma didn't think of her chickens as pets, but nonetheless, always had a favorite hen or two that followed her around.

Back then, chickens were mailed from Sears or Montgomery Ward and most people kept a few for fresh eggs and butchered the rest so they could have meat to eat. A lot of change has taken place in the past 90 years or so. People lived "off the Grid" without benefit of solar panels and an army of batteries to power their heating, light, and other energy needs. Obviously, they didn't realize they were missing out on much, because many of the conveniences we have now simply hadn't been invented yet.

This post is a tribute to my Grandma, who I loved dearly, and had the opportunity to spend a good deal of time with after I grew up, not nearly as much when I was young - due to living too far away. My younger memories of the times we did visit overnight center on her early morning ritual around the corner from the fold-out couch where we slept . . . in her living room where she tried hard not to wake my brother and I as she started a fire in the old wood "heater". She crumpled old newspaper, covered it with cedar kindling, then lit it and let it get a good start before she laid several logs on it.

She may have never learned that we woke up every time and watched her morning ritual (I can visualize it easily to this day) -- we just didn't want to get up because her house was sooo cold. We sure got up when we smelled breakfast cooking, though! She had a "cookstove" in the kitchen, and had to keep a steady fire going in it in order to evenly heat the top burners and the oven. Watching her cook or bake was like watching a magician -- everything she did appeared to be so easy and quick . . . and it all tasted delicious beyond words!

Grandma was always gentle and kind, but she quietly set a limit on our rambunctiousness -- one stern look told us to shape up. Once when we were chasing each other through her garden, and not heeding her quiet admonitions, she actually asked Grandpa to cut a couple of switches. I'm certain that she would have used them if we hadn't taken that strong hint!

After I grew up I never tired of hearing her stories from the past -- I'd run errands for her, then come back to her apartment where she'd have the most delicious meal ready for me, often boiled potatoes, fried bacon and gravy -- then we'd talk until time for me to go home and get set for work. She fed me like I was a farm hand, while all I'd done was drive down the street to the store.

I'll never forget Grandma (or Grandpa, who passed away more than 20 years ago) and will always cherish the time I was privileged to spend at their farm; and later with Grandma nearby in our neighboring town. God Bless them both, they're finally together again. No more pain, hard physical work, worry, or anxiety.

Grandma's service was a fitting memorial for the beautiful person she was, but only time will heal the pain of her passing.

Training a Chicken - an Interesting Option

2011-05-14T01:58:00.000-07:00

Training a chicken with a "clicker" ? Recently, I stumbled upon this website, and it has a section on training chickens. It's at http://www.clickertraining.com/node/2996. Let me know what you think.

I've never gotten any of the electronic devices meant to train dogs and other pets, but some people swear by them. Have you had experience with them?

The Ameraucana and the Araucana Breeds of Chickens

2011-05-02T22:49:00.000-07:00

The other day, my neighbor's friend came by, and of course we began to talk about chickens. This lady is a retired English teacher . . . she pays close attention to words and how they're spelled. Right away, she was curious about the Araucana and Ameraucana breeds, as they're spelled similarly.

There is a connection between these two chicken breeds, kind of an interesting history. The Araucana breed was raised by the Inca Indians years ago in chile and Peru. They don't have tails, but have ear tufts on the side of their faces. They were introduced in America in the 1920's.

The Ameraucana is an Americanized Araucana, the result of cross breeding (most likely with the Old English) They don't have ear tufts, but have beards under their chins. They also have tails.

The Araucanas are fairly rare, but there are breed specific clubs for them. Since the '70's, hatcheries have been offering Ameraucanas.

So, there you have it, just in case you, too, were curious about these two beautiful breeds.

Chicken Anatomy - The Part You Seldom Notice

2011-04-28T16:08:00.000-07:00

The "Vent" or "Cloaca" of a chicken is one of it's most important parts, though it's not a part of a chicken's anatomy you'd immediately notice or think about . . . not like a nice red comb, beautiful feathers, or strikingly attractive colors.

A while back, someone mentioned the vent in a Facebook comment, and another person asked, "what is the vent?" That's what inspired this post. Now, for people who've been raising chickens for a fairly long time, such a question may be surprising. But, you can't assume it's something everyone automatically knows. For newcomers to the hobby of raising chickens, it's important, as it relates to reproduction, elimination, health condition,and the production of the all-important egg.

The "vent" (Cloaca) is a bit different in a hen than in a rooster, just as there are anatomical gender differences in all species. The Cloaca is the part of a baby chick that specialists (a whole new career option!) examine within hours of hatching, so that hatcheries can send out orders to consumers like us who want to receive only pullets, for example. These highly experienced professionals are able to tell, through spreading this organ open slightly whether a tiny chick will grow into a hen or rooster. If you've ordered baby chicks a few times, you'll probably agree that they're quite reliable.

No reproduction would take place in the absence of this part of a chicken. Of course, it's also the part of a chicken that facillitates elimination (otherwise known as "poop" and referred to by avid gardeners as "fertilizer").

It's important that we take notice of the condition of our chicken's vents every once in awhile, because signs of health problems can be discovered by doing so.

In tiny baby chicks, for example,the vent can become pasted over -- this requires that we immediately and gently clean it off with a soft wet cloth, or the chick could die due to further elimination being blocked. Don't let this deter you from getting baby chicks, though, it doesn't happen all the time . . . and if it does, you now know what to do about it.

When you show your chickens, it's important to check around the vent before competition and clean the area if needed. Judges check every part of the chicken and assign points accordingly. Part of conditioning your bird is to let it become accustomed to every step the judge will be going through, so that it doesn't panic.

Your Chicken's Age, Compared to Humans

2011-04-20T13:36:00.000-07:00

Three days ago, I lost one of my favorite roosters, Radio Flyer. One day he was doing fine, the next day he didn't eat and seemed under the weather, so I put him in a separate pen with a comfy bed and food and water. A couple of hours later I went to check on him, and he was dead. He was a beautiful rooster and such a character! I'll miss his pecking on my door -- no matter how grumpy I was feeling in the morning, it always made me smile.

He lived the human equivalent of 50 years, according to a chart I copied some time ago, from a source I simply can't remember.

It starts with a 5 month old chicken being equal to a 12 year old human. A 12 month old chicken is equal to a 19 year old human, a two year old chicken is equal to a 27 year old human, and from then on the chicken's age is multiplied by 10 in comparison to a human's age.

The chart ends with a 7 year old chicken being equal to a 70 year old human. So, I wish Radio Flyer had lived at least a few more years, but he did have a pretty good life. Memories of his personality, his antics, and his beauty will live on.

All of my other chickens are still very healthy, so Radio Flyer must have had a heart problem or something unique to him . . . at least I'm glad he didn't suffer for long.

Always sad to lose one of the flock, but it's just one of those things that happens once in awhile.

Fitting and Showing Plans for Chickens

2011-04-11T01:30:00.000-07:00

This weekend seemed an ideal time to take a good look at my chickens to decide who to show late this summer at the local fairs. Everybody survived the snow and freezing temperatures pretty well, but we're still getting plenty of rain -- and it's been pretty chilly.

So far, I'm pretty sure I'll show my White Leghorn pair, but just making a long list otherwise that I can trim in a couple of months. Some of the baby chicks I picked up in February are good possibilities, but they need to develop a little more to make a positive choice. Probably will limit myself to 8 or so chickens to take to the fairs.

How 'bout you . . . would love to hear about your fitting and showing experiences, too. It's still really popular if the show I visited a few weeks ago is any indication.

Baby Chicks Two Weeks Old

2011-03-19T22:07:00.000-07:00

The new baby chicks I mentioned last post are about two weeks old now and I spend as much time with them as possible -- they're getting really tame. Come to think of it, that could be why I've neglected my blog for nearly that length of time. Being a 'dad' is really time consuming.

Just when I'd written off winter we had about 3 inches of snow Wednesday. . . didn't last long, though.

My pair of geese are hatching a few goslings, will get some pictures up ASAP. I named the gander Pop and the goose, Nana. They remind me of grandparents for some strange reason. I think they'll do fine, they're pretty protective and will take good care of their little ones.

Took in a poultry show earlier today. Didn't have time to linger, but checked out all the birds quickly - great variety. I took some photos.

Should be lots of events all over soon, drop me a line about them if you get the time.

Baby Chicks Again

2011-03-07T01:23:00.000-08:00

So cool to be a daddy again . . . 12 babies this time. This early batch of babies is made up of 2 Golden Sexlinks, 4 White leghorns, 4 Buff Orpingtons, and 4 Rhode Island Reds. All are healthy as can be, but I was worried about one of the Leghorns for a number of hours. The poor little thing must have just been worn out, lively as can be now, scratching around with the rest of them.

Sure do love baby chicks, but then, who doesn't? Judging by the crowd at the feed store their popularity is continuing to grow. Someone came in ahead of me and bought all 100 Barred Rocks, so I won't be getting mine until the next order comes in, but that's okay.

So, how about you? Getting any new chickens for Spring and the summer shows?

Egg Bound Hens

2011-02-21T21:08:00.000-08:00

Until the other day, I'd never done much research on hens that are egg bound, but someone asked me about it so I pulled out a bunch of my chicken books and dug in. I've been fortunate not to have experienced having this happen to any of my layers before, so had kind of glossed over all the info.

I hope none of your hens gets egg bound, because it's one of those life and death situations, many hens don't live beyond 48 hours. It'll be better, though if you know what the symptoms are so you can react quickly and avoid losing a favorite pet. But first of all, please know that this doesn't happen often in backyard flocks.

Here are the symptoms:

You'll find your hen 'just sitting there', on the floor or the ground.
Her feathers will be all fluffed out.
She'll behave as though she's drowsy and ill.
You might find that her tail is pumping up and down and she may appear to be straining to lay an egg.
Her stomach may appear swollen; it's best to take her to the Vet if this happens.
She may be struggling to breathe, another indication that a Vet visit is needed.
Her droppings may look abnormal, or she may be constipated.

Causes:

She could be infested by worms.
She may be genetically susceptible
Her diet may have been poor, lacking in sufficient nutrients.
An egg may have broken inside of her, caused by rough handling during the morning hours.

Treatment:

A trip to the Vet is always a good solution, but there is one home remedy I've seen recommended.
Put the hen in a wire cage (with wire floor). Boil water, then cool down to the point where it isn't hot enough to burn her, but is still steaming. Put the water in a flat, large pan and place it under the wire cage. Put a heat lamp above the cage and cover the cage with plastic or a blanket. Place a thermometer inside and keep it at between 90 and 102 degrees. After about 2 hours of this moist heat treatment, the hen may lay her first egg and be on her way to recovery. If not, but she seems better and able to eat, she probably wasn't eggbound, but still may be ill. If she still doesn't eat and appears ill, use the treatment a while longer. If you don't experience success, but she hasn't laid an egg for several days it's best to take her to the Vet. He can give her an injection that will help her to lay the egg.

Hopefully, you'll be fortunate in not experiencing this condition in your hens as I've been after many years of raising chickens..

Happy Valentine's Day!

2011-02-15T14:21:00.000-08:00

Well, Valentines Day was yesterday, so this is a bit belated. Even so, hope it was special for all. Like most everyone, it was a work day for me.

Here we are in mid-February already with Spring quickly approaching. More and more people are becoming enthusiastic about keeping chickens as pets, showing them and making them the center of their family life. What an exciting cultural trend to witness! Love it!

I think every kid should have the privilege and educational opportunity to hatch some eggs, at least once when they're young. I guess they do it in classrooms sometimes and that's great, too. Caring for a brooder full of baby chicks is a really close second choice, of course. Seems we, as a society, kind of lost that exposure to rural living over the years. Just my opinion, of course. Don't mean to ramble on.

A couple of new books have arrived: Rare Poultry Breeds by David Scrivener. I'll be adding it to my library, it's nearly 300 pages, can't wait to read it. I already have 99% of the books on chickens and other poultry, so I have to be on the look out for new ones that come out. The other book is Keeping Chickens:Self Sufficiency, by Michael Hatcher. Am about to order it, too. Will try and get these out on my http://www.fortheloveofchickens.com/ site soon and will 'review' them for your benefit.

Interested in how to process poultry?

2011-02-05T13:08:00.000-08:00

Just noticed there's a a new video out on processing poultry. It's "How to Process Poultry" by Nels Youngberg. Will look it up to see if I can include it on my website http://www.fortheloveofchickens.com/.

This would probably be helpful for people who've ended up with more chickens than they can handle, or who want to raise meat chickens for their meat supply. It sounds like a great value for those who need help with this.

Signs of an Early Spring?

2011-02-02T01:49:00.000-08:00

A neighbor flagged me down this morning. He wanted to warn me. Seems the bears are coming out of hibernation. He said he'd just seen a 500-600 lb. one nearly across from my little homestead. Usually, they don't come out 'til at least March. Sure don't look forward to getting too close to them. A few years ago I came home from my night shift to see one on the opposite side of a crabapple tree I'd been picking from the day before.

Later today I found my rooster, Radio Flyer, out in the yard . . . again. It was sunny and warmer than it's been. He'd dug a little hole and was taking a dust bath while soaking up some sun. Obviously, it felt like Spring was well on the way for him.

Don't really know whether it's a sign of Spring or not, but my goose laid an egg (nope, it wasn't golden), the first in a long time. I'm leaving it in the nest so she can collect some and,hopefully, raise some little goslings. My chickens are still laying a little.

An early Spring would sure be nice, but think I'll keep the snow tires on a while longer, just in case.

Deadline of June 1st -- Couple Wants Their Chickens Back!

2011-01-25T13:48:00.000-08:00

Here's an update on the case about Brenda Helm, the lady from Niskayuna, NY who has had her flock of chickens taken away . . . she's distributing a petition. She also has a Facebook Page you can go to stay informed about her case. You can find it at http://www.facebook.com/pages/Niskayuna-chickens/126485547418488 . Brenda says the Town wants her to stop, because the "emails, letters and faxes are overwhelming the town board and officials". She is so grateful to everyone who has taken the time to help.

Unfortunately, though, she still doesn't have her chickens back home yet. If you're a fellow pet chicken enthusiast, you can imagine how she feels, so please go and lend support! She will appreciate your expression of concern, and the continuing overwhelm at her Town offices.

Thanks.

Feed the Hungry--Get a Free Pet

2011-01-13T12:03:00.000-08:00

Just starting to get catalogs from the hatcheries, and thought I'd mention something that may interest you. Meyer Hatchery in Ohio (http://www.meyerhatchery.com/) is offering one free pullet with orders. What they'd like their customers to do is give the eggs from that one hen to your local foodbank. Kind of a cool way to encourage giving, and it should work well for those who like to raise chickens as pets.

Most people who keep chickens likely hand out full egg cartons without this incentive, but it is thoughtful. I don't know about you, but I just love this time of year. I send off requests for catalogs from every hatchery I see advertised and boy is it fun to look through them.

A lot of the hatcheries are on my website (the 'links to hatcheries' page) at http://fortheloveofchickens.com/. People often ask me for a reference to my favorite hatchery, but I've ordered baby chicks from many of them and have to confess I don't really have a favorite. I haven't had a bad experience with any around the country, so far. I guess maybe a good rule of thumb would be to choose one that is closer to where you live and carries the breed(s) you like best. As long as they sell chickens they're on my good list! So, not very informative, I guess.

Oh, Murray McMurray now has a blog. It's at http://blog.mcmurrayhatchery.com/. Yeah, I know, maybe I'm not supposed to mention a "competitor", but you should have an opportunity to benefit from all sources.

A Visit From a Bobcat

2011-01-09T18:29:00.000-08:00

The other night I was busy reading when I heard noises on my deck. Upon opening the door (just a crack) I saw a bobcat looking back at me! Kinda scary (to me). He took his time leaving, so obviously he wasn't afraid. Fortunately, all my animals were secure. Of course I didn't take a picture of him, but did find the one to the left (it was above a Google entry for a heavy equipment company named Bobcat) which looks just like the one on my deck.

He actually looks a lot like my indoor cat, except for the bobbed tail, and his size. They can be a predator of chickens, so better watch out. They can jump as far as 12 feet. Will keep a close eye on my rabbit, too. Guess bobcats usually don't attack humans, but if they do, it's recommended to get tested for rabies. This is the second wild animal I've had on my deck. A couple of years ago, a cougar came to visit (the snow had covered up most of my Nite guard lights). Most of the problems I've had from wildlife predators has come from owls and raccoons, but there's always a first time for something new.

Her Town Took Her Pet Chickens Away!

2011-01-07T10:00:00.000-08:00

Usually, I just mind my own business and don't get involved, but this is a compelling story . . .

A lady from a small town in New York was having a hard time. She had been diagnosed with cancer, and her chances weren't looking good at all.

In an effort to give her something else to think about (and something to live for), her husband decided to get her a gift. What was it? Well it sure was right down my alley, and yours too, if you're a pet chicken enthusiast!

He brought her 11 baby chicks! Well, as you can imagine, it didn't take long at all for her to fall madly in love with 'em. She named them, spent tons of time with 'em and sometime in there, she found out she'd been mis-diagnosed -- she didn't have cancer, after all! But, she did have some kind of bacterial infection that had damaged her lungs, and had surgery to remove the damaged area. Hope I'm recalling the details right.

What's important right now, is this!

Even though her husband checked the codes in their town (just like all the books tell us to do) to make sure it was kosher to have a few hens as pets (and there was no code at that time covering chickens), they've had those chickens taken away from them. The reason? A judge says they're "farm animals" and that they don't fall under the "pet" category.

Now, the couple has a fine levied against them for $4,000, in addition to their loss of the pet chickens.

You can read the news story and see the accompanying video by clicking below:

http://www.wten.com/global/story.asp?s=13783920

Since this lady, Brenda Helm, saw my website about the hobby of keeping chickens as pets, she contacted me to ask if I'd be willing to write a letter to the judge explaining the growing popularity of this great hobby. She wanted me to let them know that chickens are regarded by many as more than "just farm animals". I said, "You Bet"! Why? Well, first of all, since the town had no codes in place at the time her husband got her the baby chicks, at the very least I thought this couple should be allowed to be grandfathered in, as they say. Second, the judge is obviously not aware that chickens are regarded as pets by so many people. Read the definition of "pets" below, then maybe you'll feel moved to write a short note to the judge, too, on this lady's behalf.

Please take a minute to check out the link below! If you do feel moved to help by writing to the judge, these people can certainly use (and will appreciate) your help! They're filing an appeal and you could make the difference in whether they get to bring these pet chickens back home.

The address is:

Stephen F. Swinton, JR.

Town Justice

One Niskayuna Circle

Niskayuna, N.Y. 12309

In my letter, I cited:

The dictionary definition of a "PET" -- "an animal that is tamed or domesticated and kept as a companion or treated with fondness; kept or treated as a pet (a pet duck)"

The fact that many hatcheries are shipping small numbers of baby chicks (from 3-10) to accomodate those who live in town and want to raise pet chickens as a hobby.

Some quotes from The Complete idiots Guide to Raising Chickens, by Jerome D. Belanger, founder of Backyard Poultry Magazine, documenting the popularity of the 'chickens as pets' trend.

And, the point that, though this trend may not represent the majority, other more "fringe" ideas and lifestyles are being given great respect, protection, and even privilege, under the law. I also mentioned that many pet chicken hobbyists are saving endangered breeds, so that they can be admired and enjoyed in the future.

Brenda Helm, is, as you can imagine, sick with worry about her "babies" who've been taken away to some type of "foster home" for chickens.

You can help her get them back, simply by writing a short letter to the address above!

Remember, your right to "pursue happiness", promised in the U.S. Constitution, could be compromised next!

I 've never gotten involved in anything like this, but I just don't believe that Judge realizes that people (not everyone, for sure, granted) like raising chickens, regard them as pets, and take excellent care of them.

Chickens Surviving the Winter Chill

2011-01-04T22:00:00.000-08:00

Chickens are pretty well insulated, especially after growing their winter coat following their molt. They seem to love the frozen weather when I let them out for exercise during the day. It's been down to about 20 F so far, but no frozen combs to report. At night they snuggle together on the roost to stay cozy. I've been feeding them a little extra grain in the late afternoon . . . it keeps their little furnaces purring right along.

The layers have been providing an average of a dozen eggs a day, not as many as earlier in the year, but still plenty for my use and enough extra's to share.

In another month or so, the hatcheries will begin shipping baby chicks out to excited people everywhere. Making the decision about what to order is by far the biggest dilemma . . . after years of ordering I still change my mind a half dozen times. If you're planning to order baby chicks this Spring, try to let the usefullness of the breed dictate what you order. All the hatchery websites and catalogs give out a lot of facts about the breeds and it all boils down to whether you're raising chickens purely for eggs, for meat only, or as an exotic pet.

I guess the best solution is to look at the adult birds of each breed and pick the ones you like the most. After 20 years or so you'll have had an opportunity to experience raising many of the available breeds. I'm glad I'm not the only one who still looks at a hatchery catalog with the mind-set of a kid in a candy store. There's always next year for the breed you decided to pass on this time.

Have you figured out your choices for this Spring yet? If you've been bitten by this crazy addiction, bet you're at least thinking about it, if not, then you'll likely go through this entire year without experiencing "the best day ever, bar none".

New Year, New Goals

2011-01-02T01:28:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year! That time of year to set self-improvement goals . . . most of mine revolve around getting things done in a more timely manner, or , more descriptively -- conquering procrastination.

How about you? Thanks for stopping by, hope you had a great holiday.

It's Over, Made it Another Year

2010-12-26T02:50:00.000-08:00

Christmas 2010, officially in the past now. What a fantastic Christmas! Great food, giving and receiving of super gifts, and fun and lively conversation . . . what more could anyone wish for.

I'm so grateful . . . grateful to have made it through another year, for family and friends, for my chickens and other animals, and for all that will come with the new year approaching.

Hope you've been blessed , too, with all of the above!

Setting big goals for the new year? Anything's possible, so go for it.

A Week Off With the Chickens

2010-12-23T01:09:00.000-08:00

Boy does it feel great, an entire week of not going to work! All my animals appreciate the time I'm home to show them some special attention and give them treats they enjoy. This is especially true of course, for my cat and dog. They get really lonely. My workplace closes up the last week of the year, plus I'm taking a couple of vacation days so my animals will definitely benefit.

So, what are your pets getting for Christmas?

Besides my time, my cat'll get a play mouse under the tree, the puppy will get some bones, and all the chickens will get special treats every day. As for me, I'll have a great visit with family, give and receive gifts, and eat oodles of holiday goodies. Nothing unusual there, but something to look forward to anyway.

A very Merry Christmas to anyone reading this, and all the best in 2011!

Most Important Part Of Your Pet Chicken

2010-12-11T01:27:00.000-08:00

The bravest person out there in Cyberspace, who had the courage to respond to the desperate plea in my last post and visit my Facebook Page, raised a question that reminded me of something we chicken enthusiasts should be sure to share with beginners. She asked about grit, and that question brought to mind the importance of a chicken's digestive system.

A chicken can have a lot of things wrong with it and survive just fine, but if something adversly affects the digestion of food it's often a pretty serious problem. So, for those who aren't aware . . . what is 'grit'? And why do chickens need it?

Grit is crushed limestone or granite and is sold in your local feed store. Chickens don't have any teeth, so the grit, which gets stored in the gizzard (a muscular pouch) is used to help grind up the food eaten. Grit is jagged in shape, rather than round and smooth like the small pebbles chickens often find in a pasture. Some chicken feed, like mash, is easy to digest and if it's all your chicken eats, grit won't be all that necessary. Some experts, though, believe that making grit available to all chickens to eat at will, is the best policy. Each chicken will consume only about one ounce a month.

When the chicken ingests food it's taken into the "gullet", then into the "crop" where it's softened. It gets pre-digested in the stomach before passing into the gizzard. Though the system is quite simple, problems can occur. Sometimes a chicken will become "crop bound", a situation where something (often a non-food item) is preventing the food from passing into the gizzard.

Poor diet, diseases, or wet moldy feed can upset a chicken's digestive system, too. And, though it's perfectly fine to feed leftovers from your table to your chickens, there are some foods that are harmful to them, such as potato peels and sprouts.

There are many quality books available about raising and feeding chickens, and every household should have a couple on hand for reference before beginning the adventure. It's a quick and convenient way to get urgent concerns addressed when time is of the essence.

Rooster Photo Disappeared, This One Is Permanent

2010-12-09T13:29:00.000-08:00

Last post I referred to a picture of Radio Flyer, one of my roosters. Well, the picture came up from Facebook as my badge for awhile, then reverted to just a FB badge. Why? I implored, but alas, no answer was provided. So, I've put the picture on here directly from my computer, instead, because he is a really special pet and is very handsome.

Visit the 'For the Love of chickens' Facebook Page -- I'm Friendless!

2010-12-06T13:10:00.000-08:00

And, SO SAD! Take pity this benevolent season -- please. It's a lonely world out there - or here, anyway. Start a conversation, join the newly formed 'Pet Chicken Enthusiasts' Group! Be Number One! Come on, you know that's your rightful place -- be brave -- claim it now.

You can get to the 'For the Love of Chickens' FB Page Here -- Click on Wall. Check out your options, Like, become a Friend, or Join the new group! It'll be good karma (and you could use a lot of that right now, right? 'Tis the Season . . .).

Note that I'm not begging . . .

The chicken in the badge photo is Radio Flyer. He's very independent, loves to be free, and is hard to keep contained, though he roosts in the safety of his pen at night. He and his little harem of four hens follow me around while I'm doing chores and working outdoors. He has courageously protected his hens and survived for at least two years. And he's a beautiful rooster, too!

For me, he a symbolizes the love of life, liberty, and the freedom to pursue happiness, however corny that may sound. You're welcome to share your thoughts on that.

Capons, Great Thanksgiving Alternative

2010-11-29T12:13:00.000-08:00

When the celebration of Thanksgiving finally came to our family, due to delay caused by a winter storm, the table was graced, not with the traditional turkey, but with a capon.

A capon, as you probably know is a castrated rooster. Capons not only make a delicious dinner entree, they make great pet chickens, too. If you love the looks of a rooster grazing with the hens in your yard, but are worried it may not be child friendly, a capon is the perfect solution.

They're easy to tame, and you'll enjoy having one -- it's a harmless addition that'll make your flock seem "complete".

Share your thoughts on this below, if you wish.

Thanksgiving Greetings

2010-11-24T19:10:00.000-08:00

"Happy Thanksgiving!"

Hope it's turning out just the way you envisioned it . . . no nightmarish accidents like:

forgetting to take the plastic wrapped 'extra's' out of the turkey
making pumpkin pie, but forgetting to add sugar - or
completely forgetting to fix stuffing

Well, you'd probably never make any of these mistakes, would you? Hate to confess it, but, yours truly has experienced every one of 'em. The restaurant was pleased to have me and my guests that particular Thanksgiving Day, though, and I learned three important lessons.

An attitude of gratitude -- good to have, not only every day of the year, but especially this time of year. The fact that I still have a job, especially during this economy, pretty much tops the list of things I'm grateful for. If not for that current situation I'd , of course, put my family first . . . then my appreciation for being blessed to have all my chickens, dog, cat, rabbit, and geese. Still lacking a soul-mate and future wife, but most of the time I'm able to "keep the faith".

How 'bout you? Make my day -- make a comment. Please?

Have a great holiday!

My Chicken Coops -- Easy to Build

2010-11-20T19:33:00.000-08:00

Below are two of my chicken coops. I have several more small coops with yards for the rest of my chickens. Nothing fancy, but my chickens don't mind.

One of my chicken coops -- Each pen holds three or four chickens.

This slant roofed chicken house is where I keep my layers.

Egg Provider For All -- and Loving It

2010-11-13T14:05:00.000-08:00

They don't exactly understand, but I pass on the compliments I get from co-workers to my hard working hens. Compliments like, "those are the best eggs I've ever tasted!" The word has spread and now even more people are asking to try some of my home grown eggs. I know, I should charge for them, everybody tells me that.

The thing is, these people do pay me for the eggs, in their own way. Just yesterday, a lady I work with brought me several jars of vegetables she'd canned herself. Can't wait to dig in! I don't do a lot of fancy cooking or baking, so it's always nice when someone brings breakfast burritos, a couple of dozen cookies, a bale of straw for chicken bedding, or even a bag of leftovers they think my chickens might enjoy. The two pumpkins one co-worker brought right after Halloween sure were a big hit with my flock.

I love eating the eggs laid by my chickens, but sure can't eat them all. People appreciate getting them and it builds goodwill. One guy has even stopped calling me "birdbrain" and has replaced it with "chicken guy". Hey, you gotta be thankful for even the smallest improvements sometimes.

What are you thankful for this year?

Cleaning Out the Chicken Coop

2010-11-08T16:48:00.000-08:00

Some people I used to know quite well came by the other day, saw me outside working and somehow the conversation turned to cleaning a chicken coop. These are not rural people, but they have become interested in getting a few chickens for their corner-lot suburban backyard. They've gotten to the point of checking the laws in their area and got the go-ahead to raise chickens.

They were aghast to hear about the Deep Litter System of chicken coop management. Like a lot of people who are new to raising chickens, they were shocked. They thought a chicken house would need to be completely cleaned out frequently, much like a hamster's cage inside the home. Having a pet hamster really was their only frame of reference to caring for animals. The primary reason they were prepared to jump into the chicken raising hobby was that they'd heard it was "green" and "sustainable".

The Deep Litter Method of managing chicken manure means you're actually allowing the combination of bedding and chicken poop to compost right in the chicken coop. You clean the coop out just once or twice a year. A complete cleaning includes the use of a bucket of water and bleach solution, inspection and treatment for any parasite issues, and completion of any needed repairs to the building.

After the facility is clean, it's time to spread four to six inches of bedding (shavings, straw, or hay). After you put your chickens back in the coop, their manure, which is high in nitrogen will mix with the bedding and you end up with usable compost (providing the floor of your coop is the ground, otherwise more composting will be needed before using the mixture as plant fertilizer). When you throw out scratch in the coop the chickens will scratch around and keep the mixture aerated. Maintain it for them, too, by adding extra bedding and 'turning' the mixture periodically.

This is a great method for your birds and is convenient for you, too. The compost heats up and keeps your chickens warm throughout the cold winter. Since its had time to break down, it's okay to spread it onto your garden plot. It also provides your chickens with microbes that are beneficial to their health. Nothing 'dirty' about this method, though beginners are often apprehensive about it.

Pet Chickens, Voting For Liberty

2010-11-06T18:53:00.000-07:00

Really, how can I speak for my pet chickens and what they might vote for? I can't. But, it's not hard to figure out their favorite treat-of-the-day. They obviously love the extra lettuce I had, thanks to expected company not being able to make it for Sunday dinner.

If they did vote, the chickens might be appalled by all the people who disrespect the privilege by simply not participating. So many of them who just have no enthusiasm for taking part. Unlike people in some countries who've become liberated after years of struggle, then couldn't wait to get to the polls . . . even when doing so might put them in danger.

But enough about one of the most valuable privileges known to humankind. This blog is all about participating in another freedom . . . engaging in the hobby of raising chickens. In some cities that right doesn't exist, but when people have realized they were empowered to change that sad fact they've banded together and in many cases have managed to change the law in their favor. That act was followed by an influx of new citizens . . . the feathered kind we all enjoy so much. The magic of a representative democracy . . . hope we don't lose ours through inaction.

You exercised your individual right to vote, though, didn't you?

Pet Chickens in Halloween Costumes

2010-10-29T21:43:00.000-07:00

Two of my pet chickens are appearing in a Halloween video . . . see it by clicking the link below:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xR1N1H-dEPk

It's pretty cute, they're dressed in Halloween costumes.

My friend Carrie made the little outfits. now she's working on 22 more. She'll be making a 2011calendar with a pair of chickens all dressed up in appropriate outfits for each month.

Happy Halloween, everybody!

How 'Bout That . . . Now an Ezine Articles Platinum Level Author

2010-10-13T23:05:00.000-07:00

Yep, just accorded Platinum status! I expected just the next level, but hey, I can tolerate leapfrogging right over it. Finally, 'skipped a grade'! Could burning all that midnight oil have paid off? Apparently so.

You can read all the articles by clicking here. Please take a minute to provide feedback while you're there. Thanks!

And before you think I'm being arrogant, let me hasten to say I realize this tiny bit of status can be removed just by submitting one more article . . . that's judged to be inferior. Pretty scary, huh?

Well, that's life. Hard work breeds success, but success is fleeting.

Now that I've come down out of the clouds, time to get busy feeding my chickens. Maybe go take a nap after that, while pondering that next fateful article.

Willing to take advice from those who have truly achieved lasting success.

Home Farm Movement, Canning and Preserving Fruits of Labor

2010-10-07T00:42:00.000-07:00

Canning and preserving home grown food was old hat to people just a few decades ago . . . something as normal as checking our email is today. I missed out on the nuts and bolts of food preservation when I was young, though. So, when I decided to temporarily make peace with the otherwise annoying blackberries growing along one side of my property by picking the berries and making some jelly -- I had something new to learn.

Other than the memories of the delicious jelly my grandma used to make, I knew nothing about where to start or what to do. Fortunately, there's this stuff called pectin that's available in plenty of stores these days. And, it comes complete with detailed instructions! Thank heavens, no need to hire a coach.

I ended up making fourteen small jars of jelly, boy is it ever good! Will have to overcome my selfish desire to keep all this good stuff for myself, because it's going to be great as Christmas presents. People seem to appreciate getting things you've made, so I know they'll enjoy getting and eating blackberry jelly. Can't believe I never thought to do this years ago . . .

Got any good blackberry recipes?

Home Farm Movement, Food Always Within Reach

2010-10-07T00:28:00.000-07:00

The growing Home Farm Movement is really revving up in the Northwest. People love the idea of having food within easy reach. There are farm tours, chicken coop tours and canning classes readily available. Who would have thought it would be possible just a couple of decades ago?

Seems like there were a couple of generations of young people who wanted nothing to do with the culture they'd been raised with . . . they deperately wanted out. So they moved to the city, intent upon shedding all signs of their shameful prior existence on the family farm and proving their sophistication and awareness of all things "cool" in the city.

We've now come full circle with many of these same people involved with the green, organic, planet saving, frugality based ideas they couldn't bring themselves to embrace when they were young.

Doesn't matter what their motivation is, I'm just glad to be living during this resurgence of interest in raising chickens and growing veggie gardens.

Would be interested in what got you started with the chicken raising hobby, et al. Just leave a comment below, ok?

Chickens Sense Fall is in the Air

2010-10-07T00:12:00.000-07:00

Are your chickens growing feathers like mad? Mine, at least the ones that recently molted, look like they're getting prepared for a rough winter . . . with a warm coat of feathers.

The last few months they've been getting kitty kibble along with their normal fare. Takes a lot of protein to regrow all those feathers. Fortunately, some of my younger hens kept me in eggs these last months. With daylight fading, they'll all slow down the laying, but since I can't use all the eggs anyway it's not a big problem. Well, maybe for the people I give them to, but they understand.

Will light up my main chicken house a couple of extra hours a day as we get closer to winter so my best layers will be able to even out their productivity.

The Wonder of Chickens

2010-10-06T23:43:00.000-07:00

Chickens allow almost anyone to enjoy farm life, at least to some degree. People are always amazed at how much fun I seem to be having whenever I get the opportunity to bend their ears talking about raising chickens and keeping them as pets. I know I have lots of company in the form of other people who love chickens just as much as I do, but unfortunately, I don't have the opportunity to interact with them all that often.

One of the greatest things about raising chickens is that they're so small compared to other farm livestock that you can have a half dozen or so and get to see them as a social group. This is when you can really get a sense of how smart they are by watching the way they interact with each other. This is why I say I'm 'celebrating the beauty, charm, and intelligence' of chickens. Some people think chickens are dirty, boring, and dumb . . . but they are frequently surprised to discover their minds have changed after spending some time around them.

It's always rewarding to 'evangelize' the occasional friend, neighbor, or family member to the wonder of chickens. Kind of my life's work, in a way. How about you?

Preparing the Chickens for Winter

2010-10-03T22:17:00.000-07:00

Chickens need some special care now that the crisp air of fall is upon us. Winter will sneak up on us, so I've spent the last few days getting everything prepared for my chickens to stay comfortable and healthy. Most of my chickens have almost finished molting and are looking great with thick plummage in readiness for the inevitable cold and snow.

My yard chickens, those that have enjoyed primarily being free rangers all summer now are cooped up securely much of the day. This is to protect them from predators that tend to become more aggressive during the late fall and winter when other prey migrate to lower elevations. They're a group of very independent birds, lead by Radio Flyer. He's a rooster who loves and protects his harem of five hens, but he'll need some help during cold weather and will probably be grateful for warmth and food that is readily plentiful.

All of my birds that have been molting still get some kitty kibbles added to their diet for extra protein. Regrowing feathers takes a lot of nutrients. Quite a few of my chickens went through last winter and made it just fine, as they had plenty of food, and I thawed out their water regularly. The wind can get terribly fierce, so I've put up windbreaks to shield them.

Over the next couple of weeks all the pens will be well cleaned and I'll increase the depth of bedding for all my birds. They should all remain healthy throughout the winter, they've proven to be very hardy. Just in case we get so much snow that driving is impossible I'll be buying extra bags of feed so I don't have to worry about running out.

Found -- Secret to Growing Tomatoes

2010-09-27T22:58:00.000-07:00

After writing about the Great Tomato Experiment in that last post, I came upon some info from notes written by my Grandfather, apparently in the late 40's or early 1950's. He was a small farmer in illinois, who did really well with 10 acres. He operated a roadside booth and sold fresh veggies and strawberries to rabid, loyal customers from the surrounding area. Kind of like the Home Farm movement that's going on today.

Too little too late, should have read this good stuff before planting my little tomato garden . . . boy, did I ever mess up!

Well, they say 'live and learn' so I'll pass on his information to you, though you're probably a smarter gardener than I am. For what it's worth, happy to share.The one thing I did right was to wait 'til all danger of frost was past.

Grandpa's notes said to cover the small plants with a clay pot to protect them from the sun, but to uncover them at night and on cloudy days. He said to space them 24" apart if you weren't going to stalk them and 36" if you did plan to stalk them.

Whoa! I planted mine in a planter box only about 9" apart! Guess it's a wonder I had any to eat.

He said to put a paper collar 2" above and 2" below the soil, also. This prevents cut worms from getting to them. One thing he didn't mention is the benefit of having chickens around to eat all the worms before planting a garden. Suppose that could make a big difference. As the family story goes, he started raising chickens, but later discovered my Grandma had an allergy to them and got rid of them after a short time.

Next on Grandpa's list is mulch. he said to use 2-3 inches of straw or other mulch material. Scratch up the soil before applying mulch, he warned, as it protects against drying of the soil due to wind and sun.

Finally, he recommended hand fertilizing with a weak solution of water and liquid fertilizer. I think I managed to water my tomatoes "once in awhile" with plain water. Will do better next year.

Unfortunately, Grandpa died long before my Dad even met my Mom, so I never had the privilege of knowing him. From what I hear, though, we'd have become best buddies in a split second. Too bad he didn't have time to publish a book about his farming experiences.

Home Farming Yield . . . Fried Green Tomatoes

2010-09-25T00:00:00.000-07:00

Not all the tomatoes I planted ripened and since Fall is in the air, think I'll pick the green ones that are left. They're great sliced, dipped in egg and a seasoned flour mixture, then fried.

Unfortunately, the slugs got into some of the plants. Guess it's time to get a couple of ducks, they love eating slugs. Or at least sprinkle salt around the raised garden container, didn't think to do that earlier.

Can't complain, this is the first time I've done any vegetable gardening, feel lucky to have done so well. Home grown tomatoes stand out against the grocery store variety like eggs do. This next Spring, will have to concentrate on a full fledged gardening effort.

Any green thumbed gardeners out there?

Mille Fleur Pair Looking Good

2010-09-18T17:02:00.000-07:00

In my last order of baby chicks is a pair of the Mille Fleur breed. I named them Pierre and Monique. They're a little more than four weeks old now and are looking good as per the Standard. Their wings and tail feathers, as well as the feathers on their feet look great -- they'll do well in competition by the looks of it.

Will keep up on the taming process and maybe show them at the Feather Fanciers show this next summer. Last year I went and observed, but didn't compete.

These last couple of weeks, two people asked me about taming chickens. It was at work, and we didn't have time to really get into it, so I referred them to an article. It's here if you'd like to read it.

My neighbors tell me I have a knack for taming chickens, but it's not hard to do. Just spend time with them, pick them up to check them like the judges do, and feed them well. It's kind of like any other pet, just show them you like them, and they'll reciprocate. No magic involved.

After I'd only been living up here for a few months, one of my hens went missing. I went looking for her, calling her name, "Hennie", over and over, but she didn't show up. Couple of weeks later I was outside when I heard something in the brush. Just in case, I called her again then saw her running toward me. She hopped up on my knee as I knelt down. That's how tame they can get when you've had them a few years.

Raising Chickens . . . For Idiots

2010-09-13T17:37:00.000-07:00

Awhile back, I ordered some more books about raising chickens and had some time this weekend to read them. One of them is The Complete Idiot's Guide Raising Chickens by Jerome D. Belanger, longtime publisher of Countryside Magazine and Backyard Poultry Magazine. To tell you the truth, I wasn't sure whether it would be an over-simplified version that would talk down to the reader (aka, the complete idiot) or not.

Turns out, that wasn't an issue at all. This book was well worth the price, is well organized to lead a beginner all the way from making the decision to start raising chickens through butchering, cooking eggs, and plenty of resources-online and off.

Plus, this book is available on the Amazon Kindle . . . a really handy way to get information. I don't have a Kindle yet, but plan to get one soon -- should be a really convenient way to take in information, plenty of books to read, just one thing to carry. Once you get a Kindle, buying the books for it costs a lot less than buying the regular versions. I've been pretty slow to embrace technology, but could probably get hooked pretty quickly. Most people are way ahead of me

A few days ago I added the various Kindle's to my website, along with the chicken related books that are available with it. If you want, you can go here to check them all out in one place, there are an impressive number available.

Tame Chickens are Like Puppies

2010-09-11T13:55:00.000-07:00

My (somewhat) new puppy follows me everywhere . . . back and forth as I feed and water my chickens, around the property as I dream up improvements to the 'ol homestead, and while I check on Goosey and Lucy, the geese and pet rabbit , Petal.

She's not alone, though. At any given time there are at least three hens and my rooster, Radio Flyer traipsing along just behind her. My neighbors get a good laugh, especially when I nearly fall on the little entourage as I forget something and do a sudden about-face.

They can't figure out how I get the chickens to become so tame, but I know it's the frequent handling, the offers of snacks, and the fact that I treat them as pets. Some people get chickens, keep themselves continuously separated from them by a fence, then wonder why they're flighty when they're taken to a show to be judged.

Chickens aren't the most intelligent of the animal kingdom, but they do seem to have an awareness and instinct about their environment and the humans and animals available to interact with. Once you gain their trust, it's almost impossible to keep them away from you. . . even when they're interfering with your productivity.

Giving your chickens just a little extra attention every day will turn them into loyal fun pets for years to come. You've probably proven that yourself if you've been raising chickens very long.

Chickens are Doing Well Today, People in the Right Place, Wrong time

2010-09-05T12:47:00.000-07:00

Back home after working a few overtime hours. Felt kind of anxious about what I might find, but my chickens and other 'family members' are fine. There's something about witnessing an accident that jars you and makes you realize there are no guarantees.

There I was, driving down the highway, country music station taking me to memories past. Then I saw the car at the side of the road, no blinker on, but the driver was looking back, as if preparing to turn back onto the road. Problem was, I could see the motorcycle in her blind spot . . . she was going to hit it!. I screamed, "don't do it!", but of course she did.

As I was the only one present at the time, I parked, ran first to the motorcycle driver, who clearly was in shock and looked like his leg might be broken. Not knowing the extent of his injuries, I told him not to move, pulled my phone out and called 911. The elderly lady driving the car had gotten out and was crying uncontrollably, so I comforted her briefly. Fortunately, I had some flares and set them out, then directed traffic until another car, then the State Patrol, arrived.

Whew! Work seemed like a breeze after that little episode. Fortunately, it was volunteer overtime, so I wasn't in trouble for being late. Don't think this accident will even make the news, but that's a good thing.

Accidents happen fast, and especially when you lower your vigilance. This being a busy holiday weekend, hope anyone reading this (is there anyone reading this?) will be especially careful on the roads. We all need to make it home to take care of the chickens, and all.

Pet Chickens and the Labor Day Weekend

2010-09-03T18:39:00.000-07:00

Do you think they consider what they do to be 'work'? All that scratching around for bugs and worms, the stress of maintaining their position in the social pecking order, keeping watch and sounding the alarm when predators are near, watching over the young ones.

This probably sounds like someone has a little too much time on their hands, but seriously, has it ever struck you how similar the lives of chickens are to those of us humans?

We go to our respective jobs to scratch up the 'ole mortgage payment, utilities and food, interact in a sometimes stressful group at work and in our family relationships, attempt to stay safe by getting vaccinations, purchasing insurance, getting medical checkups, and reporting suspicious goings on to the authorities. And, rather than leaving our offspring to fend for themselves after just six weeks, we spend at least 20 years molding their characters, supporting their goals, and paying for their education.

Wow, makes me tired just thinking about all that!

Time to rest up and recuperate, it's Labor Day weekend. Hope you do the same!

My Pet Chicken Family, Adoptions Coming Up

2010-09-02T10:49:00.000-07:00

Well, it's official, out of the dozen eggs my hen Henrietta was setting on, just five hatched. My closest neighbors stopped by and she and her babies have now been spoken for. As soon as the baby chicks are 'raised', they'll all move down the road to their new home. All the babies look exactly like Barred Rocks, they're all healthy and the neighbors have been wanting a good mama hen for awhile now. Of course,I have visitation rights, will be fun to see all the babies after they're full grown. All pullets, from the looks of it.

Also, my neighbors bought several more of my menagerie for her boss, who runs a motel and restaurant at a tourist village a few miles away. He has a quality facility for them and features home grown eggs on his restaurant menu. He's right on the main highway and does a lot of business, especially during tourist season while the highway is open.

Getting another fellow worker into the hobby of raising chickens, too. He and his family are coming over this weekend to choose a 'baker's dozen' , twelve hens and one rooster. They want a good variety, so have come to the right place. I'm looking forward to showing them around. He's been building a chicken house and ordered all his supplies from Jeffers, through my website. That was nice of him, but he didn't do it entirely to be nice, he says he got a great deal.

I'll still keep my laying hens, some I've had as pets for several years and they still lay an egg every few days. I know, it's not financially "wise" to keep the hens so long, but here's how I look at it. Raising chickens is my hobby. I don't drink, gamble, eat out a lot or do anything else (well, except for buying chicken magazines and books) that the majority of people would consider wasteful, so I don't feel that keeping a few hens as pets for all their natural life is such a bad thing. They're about as special as my dog, cat, and rabbit.

If you're a die hard chicken hobbyist, maybe you'll understand. If not, well then, I'm still in the minority. Boy, I sound boring, don't I? Not bored, though.

The Home Farm Movement. . . Raise Chickens . . . Avoid Hunger

2010-08-31T21:53:00.000-07:00

One of the best things about the home farm movement and raising chickens is the food. More and more people are taking part in this movement to become independent, insure survival in economic downturns, and eat a nutritious organic diet reminiscent of generations ago. Home prepared meals from home grown gardens, meat and eggs from chickens, and often the addition of a milk goat, bee hives, or whatever slice of country life the homeowner has the room for.

It's the life our grandparents lived, except for modern conveniences to cook and prepare food with. What we're now calling 'slow food' isn't nearly as slow to prepare as it used to be, of course. Frankly, I couldn't be more pleased that even people my age are beginning to want to live this way. One of the highlights of my childhood is visiting my grandparents farm. You see, my Grandma and Grandpa were pioneers, in a way. They scrimped and saved for several years after they were married, because they wanted a place of their own. Living in a tiny house while Grandpa labored day and night to keep up with the milking, plowing, and gardening for the owner of that house and farm was a way of life they desperately wanted to escape.

And escape they did. After having saved up a small nest egg, Grandpa refinanced his old jalopy to make up the difference between it and the $300.00 asking price for a 40 acre plot of land "out in the sticks". It was heavily forested, so they first had to harvest a few trees to build a tiny house that served them until they had two kids. Little by little, they added to their house until they finally ended up with a three bedroom home, plus a barn and shop. They put up with much doomsayers and criticism, but persisted with their plans, planting a garden that was the envy of all the neighbors every year and raising a variety of farm animals.

It's the fruits of their labors that I remember the most . . . Grandma's cooking. The refrigerator may have looked bare, but in no time flat Grandma would be calling us in for dinner. Her secret stash was in the "fruit room" (the first room of their house), the 1958 Coldspot freezer she was so proud of, and the root cellar. To this day, I can still almost taste her mashed potatoes and hamburger gravy, cole slaw, homemade bread, corn on the cob, apple jelly, and, of course, pie for dessert. The next morning, she served potato cakes from the leftover mashed potatoes.

After running ourselves ragged to and fro on Grandma and Grandpa's property, my brother and I ate like farm hands. Before going to bed on the pull-out couch in the living room, we 'helped' Grandpa chop kindling and bring wood in for the next morning's fire in the ancient dining room heater. We always woke up when Grandma started the fire in the morning, but being city kids used to a thermostat set at room temperature, we pretended to be asleep until the warmth of the heater began to spread throughout the room.

Throughout most of my childhood, Grandma raised chickens, and I took it upon myself to be the egg gatherer during our short visits. Mostly, she had White Leghorns she'd bought from a nearby neighbor. Grandpa was a logger before retiring, and had both eggs and toast, as well as oatmeal -- every single morning. They lived a simple life. worked hard, and lived frugally.

A visit to my grandma this last weekend sparked these memories . . . she doesn't really remember me, but I sure remember her . . . with great warmth, love, and appreciation.

Recalling Your Eggs Due to the Salmonella Epidemic?

2010-08-27T19:31:00.000-07:00

"Will I get sick if I eat them?", asked a co-worker when I handed her a dozen eggs yesterday. After all the news about the recalled eggs lately,I didn't really blame her. Even though they were a gift, I can appreciate her not wanting to be one of those unfortunate people who lost days of their life to being sick and unable to follow up on their work or fun plans because of it.

So, I explained. Statistically, only one in 20,000 eggs may contain the Salmonella Bacteria so the odds were definitely in her favor. Plus, according to the government, "thoroughly cooked = thoroughly safe." The Salmonella bacteria is destroyed by heat. I advised her to follow good hygiene while handling the eggs, avoid using any of the eggs raw, over easy, or undercooked in any fashion.

Something like this always makes us think twice and lean a bit toward paranoia, but this too will pass. It's probably a good reminder if not taken too far. After all, Salmonella can also be contracted through consumption of beef, poultry, milk, vegetables, and fruit. One thing I hadn't realized is that people can get arthritis symptoms from having it, plus other lasting side effects. More than a small inconvenience, but preventable by following recommended practices.

Fitting and Showing the Old English Breeds

2010-08-17T17:10:00.000-07:00

"The Old English Breeds". That's my automatic response whenever someone asks me what my favorite breed of chicken is. There are many other beautiful breeds, and I've never seen one I didn't love, but the Old English is number one. In part, it's probably their long and colorful history.

For showing, though, the roosters have to be dubbed. Dubbing, in case you're not familiar with the term, means cutting the comb. This was done when they were used in cock fighting and apparently it became the standard because of that. This means I don't show my Old English roosters, as I've learned to do dubbing, just isn't my favorite activity. Besides, I think the combs add a whole lot to their beauty.

It's the Old English roosters (bright red combs intact) that are used in much of the chicken decor, including weather vanes, dinnerware, and kitchen linens. During the founding of the United States, they were proposed as the National Bird, but barely lost to the Bald Eagle. Despite losing that vote, they are still a patriotic symbol of American grit and independence, pride, and nobility.

They don't need to be trained to fight each other, they're genetically programmed for that. So. if you have more than one rooster they need to be kept separate from each other. The hens are plainer looking than the roosters, but make good brood hens. If you're looking for pet chickens, especially if you have young children, an Old English rooster might not be my first recommendation, as they each have their own personalities. Some can be mean, but many do make good pets, it's just hard to predict.

Within the urban farming movement the Old English wouldn't be the best choice, but in rural areas where crowing isn't too frowned upon and land is abundant they are still enjoyed by many chicken enthusiasts. Along the backroads of the Pacific Northwest they're seen quite frequently. In fact, one of my favorite things to do is travel the backroads and see all the farms, the animals, and the buildings used to house them in. It's quite an education. Lately, it's been a bit sad, though, as some places that used to have lots of animal life have been abandoned . . . this bad economy taking its toll.

The one fair I've been to so far, though was very lively, lots of animal exhibits, and the poultry barn was full. Seems to back up my theory; raising chickens as a family hobby, getting fresh eggs, and fitting and showing your best birds is an inexpensive and fun activity for families to participate in.

If you haven't done so yet, you can get the free report about fitting and showing your chickens on my website .

So, the Chicken Did Come Before the Egg

2010-08-14T01:00:00.000-07:00

It's great that scientists have proven the chicken did come before the egg. What's even greater is everything else they've learned, the actual goal of that particular research. I'm sure you heard all about that groundbreaking discovery.

Because of it people will benefit greatly as surgeons will have the ability to replace bone. We live in amazing times! Chickens played a major role in this recent research project, as they, and they alone in the animal world contain a rare type of protein.

Always suspected there was more to appreciate in chickens than is readily apparent.

Getting Kids Started in 4-H with Chickens

2010-08-13T11:33:00.000-07:00

Lately, I've been sorting through boxes containing my childhood memories . . . looks like I saved every scrap of paper!

One thing worthy of re-visiting is a booklet from my first year in 4-H called "Raising Fancy Poultry". As I leaf through it, the 4-H pledge draws my attention:

I pledge

My head to clearer thinking,

My heart to greater loyalty,

My hands to greater service and

My health to better living for

My club, my community,my country,

and my world

What parent wouldn't want their kids to think clearly, be loyal, work hard, and eat wisely and exercise to become a contributing member of society? A good 4-H leader models these values and promotes teamwork, personal responsibility, and excellence. Of course, it's up to parents to personally check out the club and get to know the leader before sending a child around the block to absorb God-knows-what from a leader who may have beliefs (and shares them with members) that you vehemently disagree with.

Over all, though, when kids participate in a 4-H project they learn valuable life lessons, from contributing as a team member to performing basic business operations. They're required to keep detailed records about their project, the costs associated with it, and the final outcome. Just as in sports activities, they learn to compete, win with humility, and lose with class. Then, when they lose, they're motivated to work even harder next time . . . a valuable habit to form at a young age.

The 4-H organization was formed as a result of the Cooperative Extension Acts in May and June of 1914, and is a division of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. I tend to be wary of gigantic government programs, but at least back when I was a member it appeared that there was a lot of local control, though printed materials and lesson plans were conveniently provided for leaders. As with any group, the quality and culture of the program will be a reflection of the adults who choose to be involved, so parental oversight is always advisable.

You can learn about local 4-H groups by going to your county fair, contacting your county extension office, or searching the Internet. Since home farming, raising chickens as pets, and sustainable urban farming have become so popular, being involved in fair competitions just seems like a natural next step to take. And during the fair, kids learn to interact with attendees (learn customer service skills) which is helpful when they become teenagers and get their first job.

I have no regrets about spending much of my childhood as a 4-H member and am grateful for the leadership provided by volunteers in my club. But, one thing I wonder about today is whether membership has suffered due to the popularity of video games and such.

Baby Chicks Alert -- It's Henrietta Plus 12

2010-08-07T19:15:00.000-07:00

Move over, 'Kate plus 8'! Within mere days, Henrietta, my Barred Rock hen, will soon be Mama hen to twelve little chicks.

I only mention 'Kate plus 8' because a friend at work was relating the story and recent events on that TV program, some sort of reality show, I gathered. My friend said that on the show, Kate had a chicken house built on her rural acreage and bought a flock of chickens. Kind of wish I'd seen it, but don't presently have a TV (there are pros and cons to being "out of the loop"). This event should make raising chickens even more popular! Guess her eight kids had a great time feeding the hens and gathering the eggs.

And, speaking of the popularity of raising chickens, I discovered there's actually a shortage of the most popular baby chicks at several of the major hatcheries. Most hatcheries advertise that they have chicks available well into September, but when I called to order, a whopping five of my favorite hatcheries told me they'd been sold out for some breeds in late June. Wow! Can't believe my longtime hobby is finally being well received, at least in some quarters.

I'm keeping a close eye on Henrietta, especially since the recent war with the raccoon. She's a member of Radio Flyer's little harem and some of the eggs she's incubating actually belong to his other mistress, Lily, a Black Sumatra hen. Are you having trouble keeping up? Sounds like a soap opera, doesn't it?

Will keep you posted on the goings on of my chicken family (plus five geese, a dog, cat, and rabbit), and will take pictures and video to share, assuming I'm not too much of a technical dunce to make that happen. The learning curves just keep coming.

On Fathers Day, I mentioned adopting a new puppy. Her name is Ellie, and a trip to the Vet today confirmed that she's a healthy girl -- a black Newfoundland. She's really good with my chickens, and when she grows up will probably be very protective of them.

Chickens Who Win - Characteristics to Note

2010-08-06T11:32:00.000-07:00

Ever wandered through the poultry section at your county fair, looked at the prizes won by the many exhibitors and thought either, "now why didn't that one get a prize?" or, "what's so special about that bird?"

Well, it's the little things that count. And sometimes people forget to inspect their entries and compare all the minute details to The American Standard of Perfection. Poultry judging is done on a points scale, and everything is taken into consideration. An entry can lose points for having:

too many toes for the breed
a broken toenail
an incorrect eye color
a broken feather
the wrong leg color
an extra sprig in the comb,

and many other traits that can bring what to many appears to be beautiful and perfect in every way, down to white ribbon (or no ribbon at all) status.

It pays for exhibitors to dutifully study each of the details in the Standard before deciding to show a particular bird.

Whether your entry is tame enough not to struggle when the judge picks it up, and the effort put into grooming can make a great difference, too.

On my website I've offered a free report with fitting and showing tips. You're welcome to download it, probably will be helpful, especially if you're new to fitting and showing.

Chicken Decor -- Is It Possible to Have Too Much?

2010-07-30T01:19:00.000-07:00

There's a good reason why this post is a little off subject. For the last week and a half, I've been unpacking. A little slow, since I've lived in my house nearly four years, just hadn't gotten around to the spare bedroom . . . er, storage room. Anyway, two dozen boxes later, I've learned that I need more walls to display all the chicken pictures and other chicken decor contained in those boxes.

My former neighbors don't come for a visit very often, and they usually visit with me outside while I'm doing my chores, but they came in for coffee last night when I invited them. I sort of looked forward to compliments since I'd just done my version of a thorough cleaning (not quite up to the Navy standards I remember, but good 'nuff ), but they no sooner got in the door before Jenny blurted out "Scott, you have way too much chicken decor for the size of your house", then she pounded the nail in the coffin by adding "how can you stand it, chickens outside and inside, too."

Just for the record, the chickens outside are alive, unlike the images on the walls, statues on every available surface, and designs on a variety of textiles and linens. I answered her with a smile (okay, it may have looked a little strained) and simply said "I love chickens, doesn't bother me a bit, Jenny." While I poured the coffee, just before asking "cream or sugar?" my thoughts briefly turned to that old movie, '9 to 5' and the accidental dose of rat poisoning. Sheesh! So, my house is too small. I'm no interior decorator, and I love chickens . . . compared to some things, these don't seem like crimes.

Sorry to be sounding off, but Jenny has been bugging me for a number of years. She thinks I should hurry up and get married, for one thing, and worries that I've waited too long. She'll be as glad as I'll be when I meet the right woman, and will probably stop complaining about my lack of decorating talent, etc., too. She surely won't want to insult my wife. Jenny's husband seems pretty used to her impromptu outbursts, so I'm happy for them both, just wish she could tone it down a bit.

Okay, got that all out of my system. Jenny means well, she's just older than I am and (for some reason) feels responsible for steering me on the right path. Eventually, she'll throw her hands up in despair, but we'll still be good (former) neighbors and friends.

By the way, don't mean to tempt you, but have you seen the chicken decor at my website, http://fortheloveofchickens.com/ ? Because, obviously, you simply can't have too much. Did you notice how cleverly I answered my own question?

In the interest of full disclosure, I'm paid a small commission when you buy from there. A big thank you to everyone who has already done so!

The Coming Debut at the Fair -- of Pebbles and Bam Bam

2010-07-17T11:55:00.000-07:00

Two county fairs are coming up in my area, which means it's time to prepare my pet chickens for the competition. Same with you, I imagine? If you're a fellow chicken enthusiast you probably have at least thought about taking the hobby one step further and showing your best birds.

This year, the fair may be the only indication that it's summer, here in the Northwest, anyway. BRRR!

Since so much is going on (including a 7 day work week-I know, I am grateful to still have a job in this economy) I decided to just show 4 or 5 birds this year. Two of my favorites are a pair of Japanese Bantams. The rooster is Pebbles, and the hen, Bam Bam. They're young, part of an order I sent off for in February, but they meet the minimum age requirement. Assuming all goes well (technically challenged) you'll soon be able to watch a video of them at five weeks where I check them out.

In the free report about fitting and showing chickens, which is available on my website, I talk about showing young chickens to avoid a fairly common issue. Often, when people are deciding which of their chickens to show, they'll put forth all the necessary effort taming and conditioning them, only to find that their chosen birds have started to molt when it comes time for the competition. This has happened often enough to me so that I started placing an order in late winter to avoid that issue.

Probably next week, I'll start cage training my entries. This is where you use a judging stick to go through the same steps the poultry judge will take while the chicken is in it's cage at the fair. You stroke the chicken with the rounded end of the stick in several ways to bring about show quality posture. This is part of the "fitting" or conditioning process. It's fully explained in the above report.

The first issue of the "Out of an Eggshell Newsletter" will soon arrive in your in-box if you've signed up as a subscriber. Like the report, it's free by just entering your first name and email address, and of course you'll be able to cancel if you don't like it.

Look forward to 'meeting' you.

To Life, Liberty, and the Independence of All

2010-07-04T11:37:00.000-07:00

Happy 4th of July! My chickens are free now, more so than they've been in awhile. Finally captured the hungry raccoon that's been stalking and killing several of them this past month.

After living in a wilderness area for more than three years, this has been my first all-out war with predators. Thought I was living a charmed chicken-keepers life. Before moving my chickens in I armed the chicken yard with Nite Guard lights. Apparently, they did their job, as until recently I didn't lose any of my birds.

Well, there was one rooster who was snatched by an owl, but I solved that immediately by putting a couple of the lights on top of fence posts . . . duh, no more problems. Still miss the rooster.

Raccoons look cute, endearing, and so innocent, as you likely know if you have chickens, but they are smart, capable, and patient at getting what they want. I love all animals, but I was almost ready to shoot this particular one. Instead, I bought one of those HAVAHART traps, set it, then waited. And waited, and then, you know . . . waited . . . some more.

Finally, yesterday morning I went outside, and there he was . . . peering intently through the wire enclosure at me. If I hadn't seen the evidence with my own eyes, probably would have freed him immediately. Turns out, the little bandit was more attracted to dry cat food than the canned tuna I'd been using to entice him into the trap. Glad I keep my cat inside!

As soon as my chores were done, I put him in the back of my pickup and went for a long drive, past the wilderness parks, over multiple bridges, down narrow winding logging roads, and well into the dense forest. Every once in awhile, I'd glance back at him. He seemed to be playing hide'n'seek, covering one eye and peeking playfully out at me.

Eventually,I stopped, brought the trap to the ground and quickly lifted its door while backing away at almost the same instant (hey, it was my first time - was a little afraid he'd attack me). He was gone in a flash. By now, he's no doubt happily exploring his new habitat . . . forty miles away from my chickens.

Wow! What a great weight off my shoulders! And my chickens can get back to their normal routine.

If you're having problems with raccoons, first of all, you have both my sympathy and empathy. I have learned that the traps do work, so I can recommend them, but I'd understand if you prefer the more immediate method of assassination (all the experts point to just the two solutions). And, certainly, shooting the little rascal would have been a lot less expensive and time consuming.

I'm curious about how you have -or would have- handled the situation. Do you think I behaved like a coward, an extremist animal rights activist (please, no!), or did I do the right thing?

Did I mention that I enjoyed the ride, anyway? Guess that means it wasn't entirely a waste of time.

Almost Time to Choose, Which Chickens to Show?

2010-06-24T15:58:00.000-07:00

Do you show your chickens at your local county fair?

Someone asked me the other day, "which chickens do best in competition?" Immediately, my thoughts went back to my junior high 4-H experiences. My 4-H leader had an answer to that question that made a lot of sense.

She recommended, all other traits and requirements being equal, that we'd give ourselves an advantage if we showed a breed that was either all white or all black. Her reason? Well, simply put, no barred, spangle, lacing, or any other pattern of design is expected in a breed that is all one color. Therefore, no points can be taken off if a feather or two is missing the perfect pattern.

My friend, Carrie, who asked that question is all excited now. She has a White Leghorn trio she's decided to show. Last night she invited me over to see them. They look great, hope she wins a trophy as this is her first year participating.

Personally, I've decides to show Pebbles and Bam Bam, a Japanese pair. They're mostly white, and their tail feathers look up to Standard.

How about you? Feel free to comment below!

By the way, especially if you're new to fitting and showing chickens, feel free to download the free report on the subject. You can access it from my website, http://www.fortheloveofchickens.com/ . Then I'd love to hear your feedback, either way.

Happy Fathers Day, Guys

2010-06-20T13:45:00.000-07:00

Feeling a little left out today, but I did just adopt a puppy. That qualifies, right? Well, kinda, sorta, in a way . . .

Anyway, since I keep reading "you don't even need a rooster" to keep chickens and enjoy those delicious eggs, I'm dedicating this post to the mighty and awesome ROOSTER.

That would be the same ROOSTER that's required for fertile eggs and the miracle of birth, or hatching, of one of the cutest baby farm animals that exist! I know, the reason roosters have gotten short shrift is because of the popularity of urban farming. Not keeping a rooster with a flock of hens keeps city dwellers within the confines of local law. Roosters are usually banned because their early morning 'cock-a-doodle-do's' are considered to be noise pollution by some people. For others, this "noise" brings back nostalgic memories of rural living.

Personally, if you're living the 'country life' without the presence of a rooster, I believe you're missing an important part the experience. And I understand, the law is there to be obeyed, and there's not a lot you can do about that.

Roosters are beautiful, living, moving, crowing works of art. Each one has a distict personality. Some are mean and independent, and qualify as "deadbeat dads", while others actually welcome the baby chicks under their wings. And, you can't automatically judge roosters as poor choices to develop into pets. Often, if you start early, and spend time with them , they'll become great pets, even defending your home much like a watch dog. Like my Old English Bantam, Spike, who struck fear into a six-foot-four former football hero.

Then there's my liberty loving Auracauna Rooster, Radio Flyer. He gets out every day, along with his harem of four hens. I can hear him now, "peck, peck, peck". When he hears I'm up and about on the weekends -- he wants his treats, which he gallantly shares with his hens.

Roosters share a prominent place in history, are used in art, decor, and are featured in many customs around the world. They deserve a little tribute today, in my humble opinion.

Okay, I'm off to do the chores, call my Dad, and walk my new puppy.

What do you think? Got any good rooster stories?