The Top Three Benefits of Raising Guinea Fowl - And One Important Consideration

Raising guinea fowl can be an enriching experience, offering numerous benefits that go beyond the ordinary. These hardy, distinctive birds are often celebrated for their unique contributions to a farm or homestead. Let's explore the top three reasons to consider raising a flock of guinea fowl, along with one important caveat to keep in mind. Whether you’re an experienced farmer or a newcomer to poultry keeping, understanding these advantages and challenges can help you make an informed decision.

Pest Control

One of the most celebrated benefits of raising guinea fowl is their exceptional ability to control pests. Guineas are natural foragers, and they have a voracious appetite for insects. They can significantly reduce the population of ticks, fleas, and other pests in your yard without the need for chemical pesticides. This not only helps protect your garden and livestock from harmful bugs but also contributes to a more natural and sustainable farming practice.

Key Fact: Guineas can consume large quantities of insects each day, including ticks, which are known carriers of Lyme disease.

Alarm System

Guinea fowl are well-known for their loud and distinctive call. While their noisiness might be a drawback for some, it serves as an excellent natural alarm system. Guineas will vocalize loudly when they encounter anything unfamiliar or potentially threatening. This makes them great watchdogs for your property, alerting you to the presence of intruders—be they human or animal.

Security Tip: Their alertness to unusual activity makes them particularly useful in rural areas where properties can be sprawling and more difficult to monitor.

Low Maintenance

Compared to other poultry, guinea fowl are relatively low maintenance. They are hardy birds that can adapt to various climates and conditions. Once acclimated, they require less shelter and care than chickens and can fend for themselves by foraging for their food. This makes them an excellent choice for those who want to raise poultry but have limited time to dedicate to more needy species.

Sustainability Note: By foraging for their own food, guineas help reduce the cost of feed and minimize the labor involved in their upkeep.

Caveat: Noise Level

While the vocal nature of guinea fowl can be an advantage for security purposes, it is also important to consider it as a potential downside. Guineas are notably louder than other poultry, which can be an issue in urban or densely populated areas. Their calls can disturb neighbors, particularly in the early morning or late evening. Before deciding to raise guinea fowl, check local regulations regarding poultry and consider whether the noise might be problematic in your community.

Consideration: If noise is a concern, it may be worth looking into ways to keep your guineas quieter, such as providing more feed to reduce roaming and calling, or strategically planning their housing location.

It turns out that raising guinea fowl offers unique benefits, making them a worthwhile addition to many farms and homesteads. Their abilities as natural pest controllers, alert systems, and low-maintenance livestock can significantly enhance the productivity and safety of your property. However, it's important to weigh these advantages against the potential challenge of their noise level, especially in more populated areas. By considering all these factors, you can decide whether guinea fowl are right for your specific situation and enjoy the rewards of raising these fascinating birds.

Top 5 Chicken-Friendly Plants for Your Backyard Coop

If you're looking to diversify your flock's diet and spruce up their environment, growing some chicken-friendly plants is a fantastic idea. Not only do these plants provide your chickens with additional nutrients and entertainment, but they also beautify your space. Here's a roundup of the top five plants that are both beneficial for your chickens and easy to grow.

1. Sunflowers 🌻

Sunflowers aren't just beautiful; they're a powerhouse of nutrition. Once they mature, you can harvest the seeds as a protein-rich snack for your chickens. Plus, during their growing season, they offer shade and shelter for your flock. Sunflowers are easy to grow and thrive in most soil types, making them a sunny addition to any chicken-friendly garden.

2. Marigolds 🌼

Bright and cheerful, marigolds are a fantastic addition to your chicken coop's surroundings. They're known for their pest-repellent properties, keeping unwanted bugs away from your chickens and garden. Marigolds are also edible and can contribute to a more vibrant egg yolk when consumed by your flock. Easy to grow and maintain, they're a must-have for a happy, healthy coop.

3. Mint 🍃

Mint is a versatile and hardy herb that's great for chickens. It's known for its strong aroma, which can help repel pests and rodents from the coop. Plus, mint has cooling properties that can be beneficial during the warmer months. Just be mindful of its invasive nature; growing mint in containers can help keep it under control.

4. Kale 🥬

Kale is a nutritional powerhouse for both humans and chickens. It's rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a great snack for your feathered friends. Kale is cold-hardy, making it an excellent option for year-round cultivation. It's relatively easy to grow, and since chickens love to peck at its leaves, it can provide endless entertainment for them.

5. Lavender 💜

Lavender isn't just for making your garden look and smell amazing; it's also great for chickens. The soothing scent of lavender can help reduce stress in your flock and repel insects. Plus, it can be used in nesting boxes to promote a calm environment. Lavender requires well-drained soil and full sun but is generally low-maintenance once established.

Incorporating these plants into your backyard not only makes for a happier and healthier flock but also turns your space into a vibrant and aromatic haven. Remember to introduce any new foods to your chickens gradually and ensure they always have access to fresh water. Happy gardening and chicken raising! 🌸🐥

Explaining the Day-old Chick Ordering Process

When diving into the world of ordering day-old chicks online, it's the beginning of a virtual journey to building your feathered flock. Here's a short step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process:

Research and Planning

   - Start by researching different chicken breeds. Consider factors like egg production, temperament, and climate suitability.

   - Plan your flock size and purpose – whether it's for eggs, meat, or both.

- Remember to check local ordinances for limitations on your flock or your ability to have one.

Select a Reputable Hatchery

   - Choose a hatchery known for quality birds and reliable shipping. Check online reviews and testimonials to gauge customer satisfaction.

Explore Available Breeds

   - Browse the hatchery's website to explore the various chicken breeds they offer. Most hatcheries provide detailed descriptions, helping you make an informed decision. You might want to check out our article about choosing gentle breeds as a first timer.

Check Hatch Availability

   - Pay attention to hatch availability schedules. Some breeds may only be available at specific times of the year. This ensures optimal conditions for shipping and chick health.

- If you intend to get chicks of more than one breed, you'll usually have to match the availability dates on all breeds. Hatcheries can't mail out orders in multiple packages across different dates from the same order. The bookkeeping would be a nightmare and cause errors in order fulfillment..

Place Your Order

   - Once you've decided on the breeds and quantities, place your order through the hatchery's website. Provide accurate information, especially regarding your location for precise shipping calculations.

Customize Your Order (Optional)

   - Some hatcheries allow you to customize your order further. This might include options for sexing, vaccination preferences, or additional accessories.

Review Shipping Details

   - Confirm the shipping details, including the estimated delivery date. Ensure that you'll be available to receive/pick up the chicks on the scheduled day.

Prepare Your Brooder

   - Before the chicks arrive, set up a brooder – a warm, safe space where they can grow during their early days. Ensure it's equipped with heat lamps, bedding, and food and water containers.

Receive and Care for Your Chicks

- In most cases, your local post office will call you (sometimes before dawn) to let you know your shipment has arrived, so you can go pick it up right away.

   - When the day arrives, carefully unpack them and introduce them to their new home. Provide warmth, food, and water to ensure a smooth transition.

- Make sure to dip each chicks beak into food and water so they know what it is and where to find it.

Monitor and Enjoy

    - Keep a close eye on your day-old chicks during their initial days. Regularly check for signs of stress or illness. As they grow, you'll witness their delightful antics and, in no time, enjoy the fruits of your chicken-keeping labor.

Remember, the key to a successful experience is thorough research, selecting a reliable hatchery, and being well-prepared to welcome your new feathered friends into their forever home.

Happy chicken-keeping!

Protecting Your Urban Chickens - Part 2

Part 2 in our series about protection of your urban flock begins with the premise that you already have a secure coop. This article is mostly about other steps you can take to provide further protection using additional items or technologies in conjunction with a safe, sturdy coop. You can read Part 1 here, if you missed it.

Using plants and landscaping to deter predators

Creating a predator-proof fortress for your urban chickens doesn't mean sacrificing aesthetics. You can use plants and landscaping to your advantage. Strategic placement of thorny bushes, such as roses or blackberries, can deter predators from getting too close to the coop. Additionally, tall grasses or dense shrubs near the perimeter of your coop can provide cover for your chickens. Be careful though, as tall grasses and brush at the outer reaches of your yard can provide cover for predators and make it easier for predators to approach unseen.

Implementing effective lighting and sound deterrents

Predators can be discouraged by well-placed lighting and sound. Install motion-activated lights around the coop and run to startle potential threats. You can also set up a radio with a timer to play during the night, as human voices or loud music can deter nocturnal predators.

Protecting chickens during free-roaming hours

While allowing your chickens to roam freely in your yard is a perk of urban chicken-keeping, it also exposes them to more risks. Limiting free-roaming hours to daylight when predators are less active can minimize the danger. Always ensure your chickens have a secure coop to retreat to and consider using portable fencing to create a safe roaming area. Make sure your birds all come in by dusk.

Utilizing advanced technology for protection

Exploring automated coop doors and predator alarms

For a hands-off approach, invest in automated coop doors that open and close at specified times. This ensures your chickens are safely locked up at night without requiring your constant attention. Predator alarms can also be installed, emitting high-pitched sounds or flashing lights to scare off intruders.

Using surveillance cameras and motion sensors

Modern technology can be a great ally in protecting your urban chickens. Set up trail cams to monitor the yard, the coop and run, allowing you to keep an eye on potential threats remotely. Motion sensors can trigger alerts, notifying you of any suspicious activity in real-time. Even if you don't opt for real-time notification, camera files can be reviewed regularly for anything unusual that might be happening while you aren't out there.

Monitoring systems and smartphone applications for remote monitoring

Take advantage of monitoring systems and smartphone apps designed for chicken keepers. These tools allow you to check on your flock remotely, monitor temperature and humidity levels, and receive notifications if any issues arise. It's like having a virtual chicken sitter in your pocket! You can even recycle your old phones to use as wireless cameras by using freely available "webcam" software and your home's wi-fi capabilities.

Protecting Your Urban Chickens - Part 1

Urban chicken keeping is becoming increasingly popular as more people embrace sustainable living and the desire to produce their own food. However, raising chickens in an urban environment comes with its own set of challenges, particularly when it comes to protecting your flock from potential dangers and predators. 

From identifying common predators to implementing effective fencing and utilizing advanced technology, we found some practical tips and strategies to help you keep your feathered friends safe and sound. Whether you are a seasoned urban chicken keeper or contemplating getting chickens for the first time, perhaps these methods will help you safeguard your flock and ensure their well-being. 

This is the first in a series about keeping your urban flocks safe.

Identifying common predators and dangers

Recognizing local predators and their behavior patterns

In urban areas, predators can pose a significant threat to your chickens. It's essential to familiarize yourself with the common predators in your area and learn about their behavior patterns. Raccoons, foxes, coyotes, and even stray cats are known to target chickens. In some urbanized areas, there are also aerial threats like owls and hawks. Knowing their habits and preferred hunting times can help you implement effective protective measures.
Identifying potential sources of danger in urban environments
Aside from predators, urban environments can also present other dangers to chickens. Busy roads, toxic plants, and even curious children or pets can pose a risk. Take the time to assess your surroundings and identify potential sources of danger that might compromise the safety of your flock.
The Coop

When it comes to protecting your urban chickens, the first line of defense is a well-constructed coop and run. Choose a suitable location that provides enough space for your chickens to roam yet is not easily accessible to predators. Ideally, position the coop in an area with good visibility from your house, making it easier to keep an eye on your feathered friends.

Building a sturdy and predator-resistant coop
Constructing a sturdy coop is crucial for keeping your chickens safe. Use strong materials and reinforce vulnerable areas like doors and windows. Ensure that the coop is predator-resistant by covering windows with hardware cloth and sealing any gaps or potential entry points. Remember, cunning predators can find even the smallest opening!
Installing secure doors, locks, and latches
Doors, locks, and latches should be your top priority when it comes to coop security. Invest in high-quality hardware and make sure everything is properly installed. Predators are crafty, and a flimsy latch won't stand a chance against their determined efforts to gain access to your precious flock.
Selecting appropriate fencing materials for urban chicken protection
A robust perimeter fence is essential for protecting your chickens from ground-based predators. Choose fencing materials that are strong, such as welded wire or chain-link, to prevent predators from squeezing through or breaking through the fence. It's also important to consider the height of the fence, as some predators may be adept at climbing. 

Most importantly, remember that "chicken wire" keeps chickens in - it does NOT keep predators out.
Building a secure perimeter fence around the coop and run
To create a safe outdoor space for your chickens, enclose the coop and run with a secure perimeter fence. Ensure that the fence extends several inches below the ground to prevent predators from burrowing underneath. Regularly inspect the fence for signs of wear or damage, and promptly make any necessary repairs.

Using underground barriers to prevent digging predators
Digging predators pose a unique challenge, especially in urban areas where there may be limited space for underground barriers. However, employing deterrents like burying hardware cloth beneath the soil surface can help deter predators from digging into your chicken's territory.

Remember, protecting your urban chickens is an ongoing effort. Stay vigilant, regularly inspect your coop and surroundings, and make any necessary improvements to ensure the safety and well-being of your feathered companions. With the right precautions in place, you can enjoy the benefits of urban chicken keeping without losing any sleep over potential dangers.

Continued in Part 2

Urban Chickens - Are They For You?

There is definitely a mounting trend in America regarding the little bird scientifically known as Gallus Gallus Domesticus. The Chicken. Or more specifically, the domesticated and now, urbanized chicken. The backyard chicken. The Neighbor's chicken. Maybe even your chicken!

What Are Urban Chickens?

If you are unfamiliar with the term "urban, chickens," the University of Kentucky defines it like this: 

The terms urban poultry and backyard poultry both refer to flocks kept on residential lots. Keeping chickens in urban areas is becoming increasingly popular throughout the country. The main reasons for keeping chickens are as pets and for egg production—pets with benefits.  

http://www2.ca.uky.edu/agc/pubs/ASC/ASC241/ASC241.pdf

Probably the main idea to take note of in here is that these birds are usually pets who live on your residential lot with you. Just like taking on a cat or a dog, the owner is assuming a significant responsibility for feeding, housing, and caring for their chickens, as well as keeping those pets within their property lines, and abiding by any neighborhood, or civic restrictions that might affect how they keep their chickens. While rural chicken owners might also have some of these considerations, the urban chicken owner usually has closer neighbors and more strict rules to follow.

On the plus side, it can also be easier for the urban chicken owner to find someone to look in on their chickens for them if they need to go out of town.

Before You Buy

If you are planning to join the ranks of urban chicken farmers, here are some things you may want to to consider in advance of that first little cheep arriving at your home:

• Check neighborhood, town, city, or county restrictions on backyard chicken raising. You might find out that there are limits not only on the number and gender of chickens you are allowed to have, but minimum/maximum requirements on the size of the coop and run, minimum distance from other homes.
• Review noise ordinances just to be on the safe side. A lot of folks believe that "no roosters" means you will have a quiet hen yard. Nope. Hens singing the "egg song" can be quite noisy.
• Read about a wide variety of breeds before you make your choice of which chickens to raise. This can be pretty intimidating at first, so it can be useful to break things down into categories and read about those first, like chickens who do best in cold climates, or learning about terminology, like learning what "straight run" means.
• Make a realistic price list for the basic accessories you're going to have to buy if you choose to raise chickens - a coop, a covered run, feed, as well as something to put that feed and water in if you don't want to waste it. If you're likely to experience extreme heat or cold situations, also price in appropriate accessories for dealing with those extremes so you aren't blindsided when the extreme weather hits.
• Ask if your local vet will see chickens. Chickens can get sick or be injured - it can be helpful to decide in advance whether or not vet visits for your chickens are even possible in your area. Some folks spend money for vet visits, some don't - you need to think about which option is right for you (or even available) before you are forced to choose.
• Factor in time - whether it's cleaning a coop, gathering eggs, or just checking on the flock, you will need to come to grips with the demands your backyard flock will make on your spare time. Some folks have coffee with their chickens every morning, some just see them at feeding time. You'll figure out which you are eventually but it's still worth thinking about your existing free time and considering how many of them you are ready to devote to poop-scooping! (see the first point about local restrictions - you might be required to clean your coop more often than you plan to.)

But what if you just jumped in with both feet and ordered your chicks because spring chick pre-orders are open NOW and you just couldn't wait another minute to grab those little cuties? 

Don't worry - your chicks can't actually be shipped until its warm enough to do so safely. Even if you only manage to get through half this list before your chicks arrive, part of a plan is better than no plan. Doing a little research ahead of time will help prepare you for the realities of becoming an urban chicken farmer!