Search found 24 matches

by HennaHatcher
Tue Mar 04, 2025 2:46 pm
Forum: Chicken Run Care & Maintenance
Topic: Best Ground Cover for a Muddy Chicken Run?
Replies: 229
Views: 21333

Re: Best Ground Cover for a Muddy Chicken Run?

If you want something low-maintenance, consider putting down a layer of crushed limestone. It packs down well, allows drainage, and keeps things cleaner.
by HennaHatcher
Sun Mar 02, 2025 12:34 am
Forum: Incubation Tips & Guidance
Topic: How Long Can a Broody Hen Be Off Her Nest?
Replies: 10
Views: 20621

Re: How Long Can a Broody Hen Be Off Her Nest?

She's probably okay, but if she keeps leaving for long periods, you might want to check if anything is bothering her,mites, an uncomfortable nest, or competition from other hens.
by HennaHatcher
Thu Feb 27, 2025 7:24 pm
Forum: Free-Range vs. Confined
Topic: Should My Chickens Free-Range in the Rain?
Replies: 17
Views: 15467

Re: Should My Chickens Free-Range in the Rain?


Hi everyone,

Im still learning new things about raising chickens every day and had a quick question. Is it okay for my hens to free-range in the rain? I always make sure they have full access to dry shelter and a safe area, but they often choose to be outside, even when its raining. Im not sure ...
by HennaHatcher
Thu Feb 27, 2025 7:03 pm
Forum: Planning Your Coop
Topic: How Many Nesting Boxes Do I Need for My Chicken Coop?
Replies: 5
Views: 21881

Re: How Many Nesting Boxes Do I Need for My Chicken Coop?


Hi everyone! Im building my first chicken coop, and Im trying to figure out how many nesting boxes I should include. Ive read different recommendations, and I dont want to end up with too few or too many. Right now, Im planning for a flock of about 10-12 hens, but I might add a few more down the ...
by HennaHatcher
Thu Feb 27, 2025 6:15 pm
Forum: Planning Your Coop
Topic: Best Roosting Bar Shape for Chickens?
Replies: 9
Views: 26479

Re: Best Roosting Bar Shape for Chickens?


My neighbors, who have chickens, told me that I shouldnt use a round roosting bar because chickens prefer a flat surface. I want to make sure my flock has the most comfortable and safe roosting setup. I've seen people use everything from wooden dowels to 2x4s laid flat, but Im not sure whats ...
by HennaHatcher
Sun Feb 23, 2025 10:32 am
Forum: Choosing Your First Flock
Topic: Buff Orpingtons or Black Australorps? Help Me Choose!
Replies: 9
Views: 33863

Re: Buff Orpingtons or Black Australorps? Help Me Choose!

Buff Orpingtons are one of the friendliest breeds I've ever had. They love attention and follow me around like puppies. However, they do struggle in extreme heat. With plenty of shade, cool water, and frozen treats in summer, they should be fine. If you're looking for affectionate birds, Orpingtons ...
by HennaHatcher
Thu Feb 20, 2025 6:22 pm
Forum: Incubation Tips & Guidance
Topic: Can You Hatch a Cracked Egg?
Replies: 13
Views: 37394

Re: Can You Hatch a Cracked Egg?

Sealing a small crack may work, but it's not a sure thing. I've had mixed results,some hatched, some quit developing. Proper incubation conditions make a huge difference.
by HennaHatcher
Mon Feb 17, 2025 2:28 am
Forum: Success Stories
Topic: From Struggling Flock to Thriving Chickens: My Success Story with Dried Black Soldier Fly Larvae
Replies: 13
Views: 76596

Re: From Struggling Flock to Thriving Chickens: My Success Story with Dried Black Soldier Fly Larvae

BSFL is fantastic for supplementing a flock's diet. My hens have laid more consistently since I started using it, and their egg yolks are a deep golden color. The best part is how sustainable it is,turning waste into protein is the future of poultry nutrition.
by HennaHatcher
Sun Feb 16, 2025 6:41 pm
Forum: Health and Wellness
Topic: Why is My Hen Laying Tiny Eggs After Winter?
Replies: 13
Views: 13245

Re: Why is My Hen Laying Tiny Eggs After Winter?

I've seen this with my flock as well. The first few eggs after a break can be small, and then they gradually get bigger as they get back into the swing of things. If the tiny eggs keep coming, though, you might want to check her diet or consider adding extra calcium to her feed.
by HennaHatcher
Sun Feb 16, 2025 11:25 am
Forum: Behavior and Training
Topic: Desperate for Help My Rooster Wont Stop Attacking Me!
Replies: 9
Views: 22813

Re: Desperate for Help My Rooster Wont Stop Attacking Me!


Im at my wits end with my rooster and need serious advice. He has attacked me multiple times, often violently, to the point of injury. Its gotten so bad that he actually waits outside my car and ambushes me as soon as I step out. He chases me to the door and attacks from behind, and he has no ...