About the Author

Christine Heinrichs

I write from my home on California’s Central Coast. I keep a backyard flock of a dozen hens, eight large fowl of various breeds and four bantams. My book, How to Raise Chickens, was first published in 2007, just as the local food movement was starting to focus attention on the industrial food system. Backyard chickens became the mascot of local food. The third edition of How to Raise Chickens was published in January 2019. The Backyard Field Guide to Chickens was published in 2016. Look for them in Tractor Supply stores and online. I have a B.S. in Journalism from the University of Oregon and belongs to several professional journalism and poultry organizations.

Feathers Hard and Soft

October 5, 2022 · Christine Heinrichs · Feed & Health

Feathers vary on different breeds. They may be hard or soft, held close to the body, like Brahmas, or loosely, like Cochins.

APA Celebrates 150 Years

October 5, 2022 · Christine Heinrichs · Poultry 101

In 2023, the APA (American Poultry Association) will celebrate 150 years, culminating at its November show in Columbus, Ohio.

The Old is New Again

August 1, 2022 · Christine Heinrichs · Chickens 101

The Livestock Conservancy and poultry breeders are working to nurture breeds that in some cases had slipped down to a meager few flocks.

USDA Announces Grants to Expand Poultry Processing

April 13, 2022 · Christine Heinrichs · Eggs & Meat

The American Rescue Plan took note of supply chain issues during Covid. The bill includes $1 billion to support independent processors. Applications due April and May.

12 Days of Christmas — Meaning Behind the Birds

December 13, 2021 · Christine Heinrichs · Poultry 101

Understanding the 12 Days of Christmas meaning adds something special to this favorite traditional carol.

Six Sustainable Hens

September 14, 2021 · Christine Heinrichs · Chickens 101

American Plymouth Rocks, Asiatic Cochins, English Cornish, Mediterranean Leghorns, Continental Polish, and the Games are still leaders in small flocks, exhibition, and the hearts of all who keep them.

The Historical Impact of Standard Breeds

September 14, 2021 · Christine Heinrichs · Chickens 101

Standard breeds carry their strength, hardiness, and beauty from the past into the future. The first breeds to be recognized back in the American Poultry Association’s first Standard in 1874 came through the devastation of the Civil War to provide food, income, and inspiration to a struggling nation.