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…

Chickens & Chatter

Find us on Spotify or YouTube Interview with Sophia Walsh: Interesting Chicken Facts Watch Here Episode 1: Coop Design and Layout with Diane Pace Plocica Watch Here

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…

Ice Blocks: Precautions

Ice blocks can be a fun and enriching way to help chickens cool down during the summer, but there are some safety considerations to keep in mind: Potential Risks and Precautions Risk of Injury: Pecking Injuries: Chickens may peck at the ice too vigorously,…

Homemade Chicken Electrolytes

Providing an electrolyte solution for your chickens during hot weather, illness, or periods of stress can help maintain their health and hydration. Here’s a reliable recipe to keep your flock healthy: Ingredients: 1 quart (4 cups) of water 2 teaspoons of sugar (or honey)…

Feeding Chickens In Summer Heat

As temperatures rise in the summer, it’s crucial to adapt your feeding strategies to ensure your chickens remain healthy, comfortable, and productive. Heat stress can significantly impact chickens, leading to decreased egg production, slower growth rates, and even health issues. Here’s a detailed guide…

Wyandotte

The Wyandotte chicken breed originated in the United States in the 1870s and was named after the Wyandot people of North America. The breed was developed to create a dual-purpose chicken that was excellent for both meat and egg production. The first variety, the…