Balancing Corporate & Homesteading Lifestyles
Disinfecting Wood: Here’s What You Need To Know
When disinfecting wood surfaces, such as wooden coops, roosts, or farm equipment, it’s essential to use a disinfectant that is effective against pathogens but also safe for the porous nature of wood. Wood absorbs liquids, so selecting a product that penetrates the surface while…
Disinfection Resistance
Disinfection resistance refers to the ability of certain pathogens (bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites) to survive and persist despite the application of disinfectants that are intended to kill them. While disinfectants are crucial tools in maintaining biosecurity and reducing the spread of diseases, improper…
Herbs That Affect a Chicken’s Calcium Level
Certain herbs can potentially interfere with calcium absorption in chickens when fed in large quantities due to their natural chemical composition. Here’s a list of herbs that may deplete or reduce calcium availability and the reasons behind their effects: 1. Parsley Why it affects…
Why Are Your Hatching Eggs So Dirty? Causes and How to Prevent It
Hatching eggs can become dirty for several reasons, most of which are tied to the management and cleanliness of the nesting environment or the health and behavior of the laying hens. Dirty eggs not only reduce hatchability but also pose biosecurity risks by introducing…
Start Protecting Your Flock with Our Biosecurity Plan Template
Every backyard chicken keeper wants their flock to thrive in a safe, healthy environment—but managing biosecurity can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re just starting out. That’s why we created the Biosecurity Plan Template, a practical and easy-to-use tool designed to help you quickly identify…
The Ultimate Digital Collection for Backyard Chicken Enthusiasts
Whether you’re just starting your backyard chicken journey or you’ve been tending to your flock for years, the Weekend Homesteader Digital Collection has everything you need to make chicken-keeping a rewarding and fun experience. This collection brings together four of our most popular resources…
Why Are Backyard Eggs Often More Expensive Than Store Bought Eggs?
Backyard eggs tend to be more expensive than store-bought eggs due to several factors that reflect the contrasting approaches to raising chickens and producing eggs. Unlike large-scale commercial operations, backyard egg production involves higher costs for feed, maintenance, and housing. Backyard chickens receive personalized…
Understanding Chicken Abuse and How to Help
Chickens are among the most abused animals in the world, particularly within the industrial farming system. Their mistreatment spans from hatcheries to slaughterhouses, often involving cruel practices that prioritize efficiency and profit over animal welfare. Here’s an in-depth look at the various forms of…
Understanding the Chalaza in an Egg
The chalaza (plural: chalazae) is an essential component of a chicken egg. It consists of two spiral bands of tissue that extend from the yolk’s opposite sides to the lining membrane of the egg. Here’s a detailed explanation of what the chalaza is and…
Healthy Herb For Chickens: Wheatgrass
Wheatgrass is a highly nutritious and beneficial addition to your chickens’ diet. It can be grown easily and provides a range of health benefits, making it a popular choice for backyard poultry enthusiasts. Here’s a detailed look at why and how to incorporate wheatgrass…