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It can be quite alarming when a poultry owner gets a consistent five eggs, daily, from five hens, only to find just one egg for a few days. This sudden drop in egg laying takes us all into detective mode – are they hiding the eggs? Are they sick? Below you’ll find some of the most common reasons for decreased egg production to put your mind at ease and hopefully get your girls laying consistently again. Why do hens stop laying eggs? Molt. At 15-18 months of age, and every year thereafter, chickens will replace their feathers. Feathers will fall out to make...

It is that time again! Warm weather is finally here, and the blooming flowers and green grass are good reminders that it’s time to start thinking about ways to fight weeds. There are many natural tips for fighting weeds so that you are not only saving your plants, but you are also helping save the earth. A few ways to naturally fight weeds include pulling, mulching, and using eco-friendly sprays. Read on to learn more about the best ways to naturally fight weeds. In order to be a good gardener you must know how to protect all your plants from...

It is estimated that 80% of dogs and 70% of cats have some form of periodontal disease. Aside from being the most common disease in pets, periodontal disease is also the most overlooked by owners, for many reasons. Most of us do not routinely lift our pet’s lips and examine their teeth and gums. Pets also do not show obvious signs of mouth pain. Despite severe dental disease, loose teeth or infection they continue to eat and do not cry out in pain like we would. Many will show dental pain as changes in routine behavior, lethargy, and shyness about...

Incubator with chicken eggs You’ve got your incubator and fertilized eggs, and you’ve read all the instructions on hatching and caring for chicks. Here are some tips for a good hatch. Housing plans: While this isn’t directly related to incubation, it’s an important point to remember! The majority of flock owners hatch eggs to get more hens. A hatch is naturally 50 percent female and 50 percent male, so before you set the eggs, make sure you have a plan for the roosters. Prepare well: Carefully follow the instructions that come with your incubator regarding humidity, temperature, egg turning, and...

Cold weather and shorter days can create challenges for our normally productive hens and the eggs that they do lay. How can you keep your hens in optimal laying condition and assure that their eggs are the highest quality possible, while helping the birds live their best lives, even when the weather isn’t ideal? Let’s look at some important factors to consider. Egg Care Check your nest boxes early in the morning and several times a day, depending on how cold it is. Collecting eggs often prevents them from freezing and expanding, which leads to cracked shells. You can also...