Feeding & Nutrition

Apple cider vinegar has become a staple in many backyard chicken coops, and for good reason. After raising chickens for over a decade, I’ve seen firsthand how this simple, natural supplement can transform flock health when used correctly. Let me share everything I’ve learned about how to use apple cider vinegar for chickens, including the … Read more

The biggest question on every new chicken keeper’s mind isn’t about roosting bars or nesting boxes—it’s, “What is this actually going to cost me?” The largest single expense in any flock is feed, and a tiny mistake in calculation can lead to a huge impact on your budget. This guide is more than just a … Read more

Imagine healthier chickens with stronger immune systems, better eggshells, and a lower monthly feed bill. This isn’t a new magic supplement; it’s a simple, age-old process: fermenting chicken feed. This guide shows you how to transform your regular feed into a probiotic-rich superfood. We’ll go over the pros and cons, the simple science, and a … Read more

There are few things more frustrating for a chicken keeper than heading out to the coop expecting fresh eggs, only to find a sticky, broken mess. I’ve been there, and I know how disheartening it can be. The good news is that this is a problem you can solve. This article covers common causes and … Read more

Every chicken keeper knows the thrill of finding a full nesting box with perfect, warm eggs, and the slight panic when production dips. You start to wonder, “What foods can I give my hens to get things back back on track?” I’ve spent years figuring out which treats actually move the needle and which are … Read more

The first time I saw my favorite hen, Clementine, panting heavily with her wings held out from her body, my heart sank. I didn’t know what to do. I worried she was on the verge of heatstroke, and I felt completely helpless. This guide is the emergency plan I wish I’d had then. Heat stress … Read more

Every chicken keeper has been there. You’re standing in the feed store, surrounded by sacks of chicken feed, and you spot two bags that look similar but have different names: one for grit and one for oyster shells. You’ve heard that chickens need both, but you’re completely confused. Do they serve the same purpose? What’s … Read more

There’s nothing quite like the feeling of collecting your first fresh eggs from your own backyard flock. The secret to a consistent supply of delicious eggs, as well as happy, healthy birds, is a well-planned and consistent feeding schedule. As a backyard chicken keeper for over 5 years, the one thing I’ve learned is that … Read more

Watching your flock peck around the yard, it’s tempting to share a tasty snack from your kitchen. But what’s a healthy treat and what’s potentially harmful? This guide provides clear, definitive answers on whether chickens can eat watermelon, tomatoes, and bananas, along with a comprehensive reference for many other common fruits and vegetables. By the … Read more

Want healthier chickens and lower feed bills? Moving toward a self-sufficient lifestyle often means taking control of every aspect of your homestead, and that includes what you feed your flock. Many new chicken keepers are surprised to learn they can mix their own feed from scratch. This article is your simple, step-by-step guide to crafting … Read more