March started out more like April this year, with warmer temps and a nice snow melt. We wondered if that was why our flock went through a mild molt. We’ve experienced the fall molt, which is why it’s nice to brood chicks in early May since they pick up the slack in egg production while […]
We’ve had a busy couple of months. In January I took on the role of Vice-Chair of the Green County Democratic Party, and have LOTS to learn. I’m enjoying the challenge but it has taken some of my time from things like perusing Facebook and posting to our blog. It hasn’t been all politics these […]
Winter months can be challenging for chicken keepers. Fresh greenery and bugs are hard to come by. Boredom sets in when our sweet little chickens begin feeling “all cooped up” and bad things can happen . . . as shown in this Far Side cartoon. In my next few posts I’ll share some ideas that […]
When we lived in town we attracted a nice variety of birds with our various feeders, small pond, bird baths, and garden. Once in a while during the fall migration a hawk would visit the feeders. I remember looking out the kitchen window in awe of that beautiful bird and feeling badly for the prey […]
We like to free range our chickens, but once the gardens are planted they need to be corralled. The 16’x40′ run made of re-purposed dog kennel panels is attached to their coop and covered with a large pheasant net which keeps them safe from various predators. We extend their run with poultry fencing so they […]
The latest addition to the RindyBerry egg laying crew are getting big and as they grow so do their accommodations. They were a couple of weeks old when we determined the height of their brooder needed to be extended. At the same time Rod added a custom built “jungle gym”, giving them room to roost. […]
Today the newest addition to the RindyBerry laying flock is officially one week old and doing great! Last Monday we took a drive to Abendroth Hatchery where we were greeted by the owner plus a couple of tables full of peeping boxes waiting for pick up. Here is a picture of the box our 12 […]
Several days after my last post it looked as though one of our young Delaware hens was going broody. She would sit in the same nesting box all day often joined by one of her flock-mates. I’ve read that it’s not uncommon for others in the flock to help fill the nest for a broody […]
Our neighbor is increasing their laying flock this year. I’m so excited for them!! Their original flock of six are no longer producing as many eggs, which happens as chickens age. This will be their first time brooding chicks. We have some experience, although limited, and have offered to help out how ever we can. […]