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.
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Articles by Christine Heinrichs

Poultry Summit 2019
October 25, 2019 · · Members Only, Poultry 101

Poultry leaders from all perspectives of Standard and exhibition poultry came together to unite on supporting poultry. They emerged with a will to collaborate and work together to help each other in the greater good of poultry success.

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American Poultry Association
August 15, 2019 · · Poultry 101

With increased interest in heritage breed poultry, the American Poultry Association (APA) is stepping up to promote standard breeds.

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Virulent Newcastle Disease Closes California Shows
May 30, 2019 · · Feed & Health

Virulent Newcastle Disease infects commercial and backyard flocks every year. Prevention and treatment lessen impact..

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Virulent Newcastle Disease
April 24, 2019 · · Flock Files

Virulent, formerly called Exotic, Newcastle disease is a constantly evolving RNA virus. Anything that comes in contact with a sick bird can pass it on, and the virus can live as long as 120 days outside a host. People do not get sick from eating poultry products infected with vND, but working directly with birds can cause mild conjunctivitis. Controlling vND involves recognizing symptoms and practicing strict biosecurity.

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