Balancing Corporate & Homesteading Lifestyles
Healthy Herbs For Chickens: Nettle
Nettle (Urtica dioica), often overlooked due to its stinging reputation when fresh, is actually a powerhouse of nutrition and health benefits, making it an excellent herb for chickens. Packed with vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, dried nettle offers numerous advantages when included in your flock's diet or living environment. Here's why nettle is a healthy herb for chickens and how you can incorporate it into their care routine.
Nutritional BenefitsNettle is rich in essential nutrients that are beneficial for chicken health, including:
Health BenefitsAdding nettle to your chickens' diet or coop environment can offer several health benefits:
How to Use Nettle for ChickensTo safely introduce nettle to your chickens and reap its benefits, consider the following methods:
Best PracticesWhen introducing nettle or any new food to your chickens' diet, start with small amounts to monitor their reaction. Ensure that nettle is only a supplement to a well-balanced diet and not the primary food source. Always provide fresh water and maintain clean living conditions for your flock. In conclusion, nettle stands out as a healthy herb for chickens, offering a range of benefits from improved feather health to enhanced egg production. By incorporating dried nettle into their diet or coop environment, you can naturally support the health and happiness of your flock. Growing Nettle (Urtica dioica)Difficulty to Grow: Easy Nettle is a hardy and vigorous perennial herb that thrives with minimal intervention, making it one of the easier plants to grow for gardeners of all experience levels. Its resilience and ability to adapt to various conditions contribute to its ease of cultivation. Starting Nettle: Nettle can be started from seeds, cuttings, or root divisions. Seeds can be sown directly into the garden in spring or fall. For a quicker establishment, root divisions or cuttings from an existing plant can be planted directly into their final growing spot. Remember to handle with care to avoid the sting of the mature plant. Soil Requirements: Nettle is not fussy about soil and can grow in a range of soil types, including poor soils. However, it prefers a rich, moist, well-drained soil with a pH of 6 to 7. Nettle tends to thrive in nitrogen-rich conditions. Light Requirements: Nettle grows well in both full sun and partial shade. While it can tolerate a variety of light conditions, a spot with some sunlight will promote more vigorous growth and higher nutritional content in the leaves. Watering: While nettle is relatively drought-tolerant once established, it prefers consistent moisture. Water the plants regularly to keep the soil evenly moist, especially in dry conditions, to encourage lush growth. Spacing: When planting nettle, space the plants or seeds about 12 to 18 inches apart. This spacing allows ample room for growth and helps to manage its spread within the garden. Pruning: Pruning is not typically required for nettle, as it is often harvested before it gets too large. Regular harvesting of the top leaves and stems encourages new growth and prevents the plant from becoming too tall and leggy. Container Growing: Growing nettle in containers is a great way to control its spread and makes it easier to manage. Use a medium to large pot with drainage holes and a quality potting mix. Ensure the soil stays moist and place the container in a spot that receives partial to full sun. Nettle, with its easy-to-grow nature and multitude of benefits ranging from culinary uses to medicinal applications, is a valuable addition to any garden. Just remember to handle with care to avoid the sting, and consider wearing gloves when planting, harvesting, or working with the plant. |
Chicken Treat Recipe: Spring Greens and Herb Salad
With the arrival of spring, the world awakens with fresh greens and herbs, making it the perfect time to treat your chickens to a nutrient-rich salad. This Spring Greens and Herb Salad combines tender young leaves, sprouted grains, and herbs, offering a boost of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support the health and happiness of your flock. Here's how to prepare this delightful seasonal treat:
Ingredients:
- A mix of fresh spring greens (such as lettuce, spinach, kale, and Swiss chard) – these provide essential vitamins and minerals.
- Sprouted grains (like wheat, oats, or barley) – sprouting increases nutrient availability and digestibility.
- Fresh herbs (such as parsley, dill, cilantro, and mint) – herbs are great for overall health, offering various nutritional and medicinal benefits.
- Edible flowers (optional, such as calendula or nasturtium) – these add color and variety, making the treat more enticing, and have health benefits of their own.
- Cooked quinoa or other whole grains (optional) – for added protein and fiber.
- A handful of mealworms or small crickets (optional) – for a protein-packed treat.
Instructions:
- Prepare the Greens and Herbs:
- Wash all the greens, herbs, and edible flowers thoroughly to remove any dirt or chemical residues.
- Chop the greens and herbs into bite-sized pieces to make them easier for your chickens to eat.
- Sprout the Grains:
- A few days before you plan to make the salad, start sprouting the grains. Soak the grains overnight in water, then drain and rinse them. Leave them in a sprouting jar or tray, rinsing a couple of times a day until sprouts begin to appear. This process usually takes 2-3 days.
- Mix the Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped greens, sprouted grains, and fresh herbs. If using, add the edible flowers, cooked quinoa, and mealworms or crickets. Toss gently to mix all the ingredients.
- Serve to Your Chickens:
- Place the salad in a clean, shallow dish, or scatter it in their run or pecking area. Ensure it's easily accessible to all your chickens to prevent bullying.
- Observe and Enjoy:
- Watch as your chickens delight in pecking at their fresh, spring treat. It's not only nutritious but also provides them with a fun and stimulating activity.
Tips for Success:
- Introduce new foods to your chickens gradually to avoid digestive upset.
- Always ensure that your chickens have access to clean, fresh water.
- Remove any uneaten fresh food after a few hours to prevent spoilage and attract pests.
This Spring Greens and Herb Salad is a simple, wholesome way to treat your chickens, encouraging natural foraging behavior and providing them with a variety of nutrients to keep them healthy and happy as they enjoy the fresh bounty of spring.
Choosing The Right Breeds For Your Flock
Choosing the right chicken breeds for your flock is a critical decision that can influence your experience with backyard poultry keeping. Whether you're interested in eggs, meat, companionship, or a combination, understanding the characteristics of different breeds helps ensure your chickens fit well with your lifestyle, environment, and goals.
Here's what you need to know to make an informed choice:
Purpose
First, define what you want from your chickens:
- Egg Production: If eggs are your main goal, consider breeds known for their laying capabilities, such as Leghorns, Rhode Island Reds, or Australorps, which can provide a steady supply of eggs.
- Meat Production: For meat, choose breeds that grow quickly and have a good feed-to-meat conversion ratio, like Cornish Crosses or Jersey Giants.
- Dual-Purpose: Breeds like Plymouth Rocks, Orpingtons, and Sussex chickens offer both reasonable egg production and a good size for meat.
- Ornamental: If you're interested in chickens as pets or for show, breeds like Silkies, Polish, or Cochins, known for their unique appearances and friendly temperaments, might be appealing.
Climate Adaptability
Consider your local climate and choose breeds that can thrive in your weather conditions:
- Cold Tolerance: Breeds with small combs and dense feathering, such as Wyandottes and Chanteclers, are better suited for cold climates as they're less prone to frostbite.
- Heat Tolerance: In warmer climates, breeds with larger combs and wattles, like Leghorns and Andalusians, are preferable as these features help them dissipate heat.
Temperament
The personality of the chicken breed can affect flock dynamics and your enjoyment of them:
- Docile Breeds: Breeds like Buff Orpingtons and Brahmas are known for their calm and friendly nature, making them great for families and as pets.
- Active Breeds: Some breeds, such as Leghorns and Anconas, are more independent and energetic, which might be less ideal for close handling but great for foraging.
Space Requirements
The amount of space you have available can also dictate the best breeds for your situation:
- Backyard or Small Spaces: Bantam breeds or smaller, more docile chickens like Silkies require less space and can be more suitable for smaller yards.
- Large Areas: If you have more space, you can opt for larger breeds or more active foragers, which will appreciate the room to roam.
Egg Color and Size
Egg color and size might also influence your choice of breed, though this is often a matter of personal preference:
- White Eggs: Breeds like Leghorns and Anconas lay white eggs.
- Brown Eggs: Breeds such as Rhode Island Reds and Plymouth Rocks are known for their large brown eggs.
- Blue/Green Eggs: For something a bit different, consider Araucanas, Ameraucanas, or Cream Legbars, which lay eggs in shades of blue and green.
Health and Care Needs
Some breeds are hardier and more resistant to diseases, while others may require more care and attention:
- Research the health predispositions of different breeds and consider your ability to meet their care needs, including space, nutrition, and potential veterinary care.
Integrating New Breeds
If adding to an existing flock, consider the temperament of your current chickens and the newcomers to ensure a smooth integration. Some breeds mix better with others, and understanding the social dynamics of chickens can help prevent issues.
By taking the time to research and consider these factors, you can select chicken breeds that will thrive in your environment, meet your goals, and bring joy to your homesteading experience. Remember, each breed has its unique characteristics and charm, making them a rewarding addition to any backyard or farm.
Here's a list of some of the most common chicken breeds, highlighting their qualities to help you make an informed decision.
Egg-Laying Breeds
- Leghorn
- Size: Medium
- Temperament: Active and can be flighty
- Climate: Adapts well to both hot and cold climates
- Egg Production: Excellent; lays large white eggs
- Rhode Island Red
- Size: Medium to large
- Temperament: Friendly and hardy
- Climate: Very adaptable to cold and moderate climates
- Egg Production: Excellent; lays large brown eggs
- Australorp
- Size: Large
- Temperament: Calm and friendly
- Climate: Hardy in various climates
- Egg Production: High; lays brown eggs
Meat Breeds
- Cornish Cross
- Size: Large
- Temperament: Docile
- Climate: Adaptable, but not as hardy as some breeds due to rapid growth
- Purpose: Primarily raised for meat due to fast growth and large size
- Jersey Giant
- Size: Very large
- Temperament: Gentle giants, calm
- Climate: Good in cold climates due to size and feathering
- Purpose: Dual-purpose but often raised for meat due to large size
Dual-Purpose Breeds
- Plymouth Rock
- Size: Large
- Temperament: Friendly and docile
- Climate: Hardy in cold weather
- Egg Production: Good; lays brown eggs
- Meat: Good quality, suitable for meat production
- Sussex
- Size: Large
- Temperament: Calm and curious
- Climate: Adaptable to both hot and cold climates
- Egg Production: Excellent; lays large brown eggs
- Meat: Good, considered a dual-purpose breed
- Orpington
- Size: Large
- Temperament: Very friendly and docile, great for families
- Climate: Does well in colder climates due to thick feathering
- Egg Production: Good; lays large brown eggs
- Meat: Plentiful meat production
Ornamental Breeds
- Silkie
- Size: Small to medium (bantam size)
- Temperament: Gentle and friendly, excellent pets
- Climate: Better in warmer climates; their unique feathering doesn't repel water well
- Purpose: Primarily ornamental and pet purposes; known for their unique fluffy plumage
- Polish
- Size: Medium
- Temperament: Active and can be skittish
- Climate: Adapts reasonably well but needs protection from the elements due to their fancy feathered crests
- Purpose: Primarily ornamental; known for their striking appearance and elaborate feathered crest
Special Egg Colors
- Ameraucana
- Size: Medium
- Temperament: Friendly and docile
- Climate: Adaptable to various climates
- Egg Production: Good; known for laying blue eggs
- Marans
- Size: Medium to large
- Temperament: Calm and friendly
- Climate: Hardy in various climates
- Egg Production: Good; known for their dark chocolate brown eggs
Each breed offers unique advantages, and your choice should align with your specific needs, preferences, and environment. Whether you prioritize egg production, meat yield, or simply the joy of keeping chickens, there's a breed that fits every backyard flock's requirements.
Deathlacers
At C&C Homestead, we take pride in our unique and captivating hybrids. The Deathlacer, a hybrid breed that embodies the beauty and gentle nature we strive for in our poultry endeavors. Born from a meticulous crossbreeding process exclusive to our homestead, the Deathlacer boasts an extraordinary appearance remarkably sweet temperaments.
Friendly and sociable, these chickens have become not just a part of our daily routines but also a source of joy and companionship.
The Deathlacer chicken represents the pinnacle of our commitment to breeding not only for beauty but for the gentle and amiable nature that makes each interaction with them a delight.
Silver Lakenvelder
The Silver Lakenvelder is an intriguing and historically significant breed of chicken, celebrated for its distinctive beauty and spirited disposition. Tracing its origins back to Germany and the Netherlands during the early 19th century, the breed's name, "Lakenvelder," translates to "white spread over a black field" in Dutch, aptly describing its unique coloration. This visual appeal, combined with its utility, has garnered the Silver Lakenvelder a dedicated following among poultry enthusiasts.
Exchequer Leghorn
The Exchequer Leghorn is a striking and relatively rare variety of the well-known Leghorn chicken breed, celebrated for its distinctive plumage and excellent egg-laying capabilities. Originating from Italy and later refined in Britain and America, the Leghorn breed has been a favorite among poultry enthusiasts for centuries. The Exchequer variation, in particular, boasts an intriguing history and a unique appearance that sets it apart from other Leghorn varieties.
DIY Dust Bath For Your Flock
Creating a dust bath for your chickens is a simple and fun project that will greatly benefit their health and well-being. Chickens naturally bathe in dust to keep themselves clean by removing mites, lice, and other parasites from their feathers and skin. Here's a detailed guide on how to make an effective dust bath for your feathered friends:
Patience & Commitment
There is so much we can learn from the simple things in life around us. My rooster 
Melody is a perfect example. I committed a lot of time and patience to raising him. It didn't happen overnight ... but he trusts me.
and is loving his new flock and welcomes my interaction with them all. With patience and commitment ... we have success. 
Patience is the capacity to endure delay, trouble, or suffering without becoming agitated or upset. It’s about maintaining calmness and composure in the face of provocation or misfortune. In a world dominated by the desire for instant gratification, patience stands as a beacon of inner strength, allowing individuals to persevere through difficult times and long waits with a sense of peace and equilibrium. Patience is critical in all aspects of life. In personal growth, it allows for the understanding that self-improvement is a gradual process. In relationships, it fosters tolerance and understanding, paving the way for deeper connections. In the professional realm, patience can mean the difference between rash decisions and thoughtful, strategic choices that lead to success. The Essence of Commitment
The Interplay Between Patience and Commitment
Real-World Applications
Patience and commitment are more than just virtues; they are the engines of achievement. Cultivating these qualities is not always easy, but their rewards are immense, leading to personal fulfillment, stronger relationships, and successful pursuits. By embracing patience and commitment, we equip ourselves with the tools to navigate the complexities of life and realize our fullest potential.Roosters: Are They For You?
I am in a lot of chicken Facebook groups and have seen too many people posting about injuries from their roosters.
It is very sad and frustrating because most of these injuries could have been prevented if the "keeper" had been informed and prepared for the challenges of keeping a rooster.
Sweet and cuddly roosters do exist, some may come by it naturally, but most have learned to trust and peacefully co-exist with their people.
Roo-berty (rooster puberty) and mating season are generally the most challenging times.
My first experience with keeping a rooster did not go well. I stopped handling him around 6 weeks when he was feathered and able to go outside. My run was set up so I could never catch him. He tried to flog anyone who got near the run. We lived with it. I did not want a rooster, but I wanted Orpingtons (straight run) so I got 2 thinking 50-50 chance for a rooster. And yes, I got a rooster and a hen. Sadly he was killed by a raccoon protecting his flock.
Remembering chickens are prey animals, the rooster, as protector, has a very strong protective instinct. That is his job!
Some breeds have more aggressive and dominant instincts than others and each rooster has a unique personality and temperament.
Roosters are amazing, they are fun and loving animals but they aren't for everyone. They require a commitment. We can always hope for the sweet rooster that loves people but be prepared for the ones that don't. So many people treat them as disposable and either cook, mistreat, dump, or rehome them at the first signs of normal rooster behavior. Roosters are worthy of respect and humane treatment.
Tips & Things To Think About Before Getting A Rooster
In no particular order, here are some things to think about, tips, and lessons I have learned.
1) Don't get or try to keep a rooster if you haven't done your research and know what to possibly expect.
2) Roosters hit puberty typically between 4-6 months - some sooner or later depending on the breed. Some young cockerels will show dominant behavior at a young age. This is a really good time to observe their behavior.
3) The signs of puberty are subtle but there. For some, it seems like the flick of a switch, one day your roo is sweet and doesn't mind you hanging around the hens and the next day he is flogging you.
4) Don't turn your back on a rooster. If he sees you as a predator, as an opportunist (which roosters are), he will take advantage of your distraction. Especially don't bend over or let your rooster get face level. Spurs or a bite in the face could cause a lot of damage.
5) Dress appropriately around your rooster. Don't wear flip flops, shorts or even real thin clothing until you know what to expect. Spurs and beaks can do damage. I personally wear bib overalls when in with my roosters. I can still feel the flog (if it happens) but they can't break the skin. I also wear gloves when picking up my biters.
6) Some people suggest you present yourself as a bigger, aggressive rooster, so your rooster sees you as the dominant one in the flock. Remember if your rooster views you as dominant and he wants to be dominant, he will challenge you when he thinks he has the opportunity to win (when you aren't looking). It's best to earn trust as a caretaker than gain dominance as a member of the flock.
7) Kicking, carrying upside down, or pressing your rooster into the dirt is only going to create fear, not trust. It's abuse (would you do that to a dog or cat). Your rooster may run from you or avoid you ... but given the opportunity and advantage, he will likely try to attack at some point. If you ever have plans to hold him or treat him for injuries, good luck.
8) Roosters have bad days, just like people. If a predator is in the area or bad weather, he may be more on edge and extra vigilant. Let him have his space and interact at a minimum until he calms down.
9) Roosters, again unique, may not like certain colors. I had red Ugg rubber boots that I loved, Storm, my rooster didn't care for them. I no longer wear them around him.
10) Consistency. Roosters do well with consistency and routine. As silly as it sounds, when I close up the coop at night or open it in the morning I sing Zippity -Do Dah (LOL, it was the first song I could think of and now I'm stuck with it.) Before I started doing this, Storm would come barreling out of the coop when I approached. Now, he hears me singing and so far so good.
11) Use a barrier of some sort to protect yourself when going in the run. I use a net. At first Storm was afraid of it but now isn't. I have used it on occasion when I need to catch him but I always carry it and use it as a barrier. I have never hit him with it or done anything to make him fear it. I also use it when closing the coop door. The handle allows me to cover the coop door when I'm far enough away that if he should charge out, the net serves as a barrier. Having my face at coop door level is inviting disaster if I can't close the door fast enough.
12) Roosters crow. Your neighbors may complain. Know your local laws and ordinances. We have no restrictions but my neighbors weren't happy with early morning crowing. The boys don't go outside until 8am. It was a compromise I had to make to keep peace with the neighbors.
13) Win them over with good treats!
14) Some roosters are nicer than others. Just because your rooster goes after you doesn't mean he's aggressive. (In reverse, there are some roosters that are aggressive - just like dogs) and not meant for a family backyard flock.) He is acting on instinct. Much of the final outcome will be dependent on you and how you react to his behavior. Do you make him feel threatened?
15) If you have young kids, think it through. It may not be the time for a rooster or look for a family friendly older rooster. You might have to wait a while, but they are out there.
16) Just because you hatched him or raised him from a day old doesn't mean he won't question whether you are a threat when puberty hits him. Instincts are powerful.
17) Don't look at roosters through your eyes, but learn to see your rooster through his eyes.
Conclusion:
Roosters are a great addition to any flock as long as you are prepared and know what to expect. They aren't hens and don't typically act like hens. They may change the flock dynamics. Just do your research and you will be prepared to face the challenges they might throw at you.
Here are some previous posts about roosters:
Navigating Rooster Puberty & Hormones
What Could Go Wrong With Keeping A Rooster
DIY: Chicken Swing
In the spirit of enhancing your coop and providing your feathered friends with a source of entertainment and exercise, this month's DIY project is a chicken swing! This simple yet effective addition to your chicken run not only enriches your chickens' environment but also stimulates their natural behaviors and curiosity.
Here's how to build a chicken swing step by step:
