Chickens are one of the most versatile livestock for the small farmer, lending themselves to nearly any venture, from backyard to commercial. They also play a unique role in the exciting world of permaculture.

If you are a backyard farmer who frequents the internet for advice, chances are you’ve come across the concept of growing fodder for chickens.

Chickens’ diets influence the nutritional value of the eggs or meat they produce, so flock owners find it important to feed organically to avoid the genetically modified organisms, pesticides, and herbicides present in most conventional feed.

Two homeopathic remedies I have used the most through the years for chickens and the people (me), who had to learn the hard way how to handle chickens, are homeopathic Arnica montana and Ledum palustre.

The bird respiratory system is quite different than most animals. Chickens are no exception. It’s one of the reasons chicken keepers become concerned when their chickens show signs of have respiratory issues — like sneezing, wheezing, and coughing.