Mythbusting: Vegetarian Chickens #freerangechickens #backyardchickens a...

Join us as we explain why "vegetarian chickens" are a modern myth. Those backyard chickens of yours  will eat everything. That's called being an Omnivore. 

Are You Raising Pets or Farm Animals? Does it Matter?

Check Out Our 4 Coop Security Must-haves!

Shhh... Meet the Quietest Chicken breeds

Hey there, future flock-keepers! If you’ve been day-dreaming about gathering breakfast in your pajamas without a 5 a.m. rooster-alarm, you’re in the right place. Today we’re talking about chickens that keep the decibels (and the neighbor complaints) to a minimum.

Wait — are any chickens truly “silent”?

Not exactly. All hens announce a fresh egg with a short “egg song,” and every bird mutters to her flockmates. But some breeds have naturally softer voices and calmer personalities, which keeps overall noise low.

Quick-look Cheat Sheet 

1. Silkie

Noise vibe: whisper-soft peeps

Eggs: 100-120 tiny cream gems/year

Fluffy, pint-sized, and practically a therapy chicken. Great for kids and small backyards, but don’t expect a flood of eggs.

2. Australorp

Noise vibe: gentle “quiet-cluck”

Eggs: 240-250 large browns/year

Australia’s record-setting layer delivers plenty of breakfast with very little drama.

3. Buff Orpington

Noise vibe: low chatter

Eggs: 180-200 browns/year

Often called the “golden retriever” of chickens—docile, friendly, and great with kids. Give them shade; that thick buff coat gets toasty.

4. Cochin

Noise vibe: soft rumble

Eggs: 150-180 browns/year

These feather-footed fluffballs waddle instead of sprint and prefer a calm coop. Heavy bodies mean sturdier roosts are a must.

5. Brahma

Noise vibe: surprisingly quiet giants

Eggs: 150-200 lights/year, even in winter

Their sheer size looks intimidating, but their voices are barely above a hum.

6. Salmon Faverolle

Noise vibe: mild, sweet voice

Eggs: about 200 light-tinted/year

Bearded, five-toed charmers that get along with everyone—just keep them busy so they don’t wander.

7. Wyandotte

Noise vibe: steady, low-key chatter

Eggs: ~200 browns/year

Hardy in cold climates thanks to their rose combs, and their laced feathers are pure eye-candy.

Perks and Tradeoffs of a Quieter Coop 

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Extra Tips to Keep Volume Down

1. Rooster optional. You don’t need a rooster for eggs, and he’s the loudest bird in the yard.
2. Space matters. Crowded hens complain; shoot for 4 sq ft inside/10 sq ft outside per bird.
3. Routine feeding. Empty feeders equal squawking. Set reminders or use an automatic feeder.
4. Black-out curtains. Blocking dawn light means hens wake up with you, not before you.
5. Boredom busters. Hanging cabbages, dust baths, and forage boxes keep clucks conversational, not cranky.

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Ready to get started?

Valley Hatchery has day-old chicks, started pullets, and the gear you’ll need for a low-noise flock. Browse our availability calendar, or reach out—our team loves matching new keepers with their perfect, peaceful birds.

Here’s to fresh eggs without the ruckus! 

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!