laying-hens Archives - Backyard Poultry

How to Break a Broody Hen

March 7, 2023 · Backyard Poultry Contributor · Chickens 101

Have a broody hen that just isn’t getting the message of “no more babies?” Try these tips on how to break a broody hen.

When Hens Stop Laying

March 7, 2023 · Backyard Poultry Contributor · Eggs & Meat

Summer is warm, the days are long, and you get used to having lots of eggs. Then your hens stop laying. Michele Cook looks at the many different reasons your hens may (temporarily) have stopped laying eggs.

Breed Profile: Ancona Chicken

February 6, 2023 · Tamsin Cooper · Chickens 101

The Ancona chicken is an endangered heritage breed from Italy. Once a popular layer, the Ancona hen continues to be hardy and productive.

Breed Profile: Welsummer Chicken

February 6, 2023 · Tamsin Cooper · Chickens 101

The Welsummer chicken is known for egg color, reliably laying dark brown speckled eggs. This Dutch chicken makes an attractive and pleasant member of the homestead.

Identifying and Treating Respiratory Infection in Chickens

November 18, 2022 · Jeremy Chartier · Feed & Health

Respiratory infection in chickens is a serious concern, but many new flock owners tend to jump to conclusions every time a chicken sneezes.

Ask the Expert: Pheasants

November 4, 2022 · Backyard Poultry Contributor · Ask The Expert

Have a pheasant or few? Have questions? You’re not alone! Look inside for questions and answers from other poultry owners.

Meet the Top 15 Best Brown Egg Layers

October 24, 2022 · Pam Freeman · Eggs & Meat

Brown egg laying hens consistently appear on best egg layer lists and can be the backbone of a productive backyard flock, many laying more than 200 eggs per year.

Help Your Chicks Grow Healthy Feathers

October 5, 2022 · Rebecca Sanderson · Feed & Health

Feathers provide temperature control and protect from the elements. Learn how to help your birds grow healthy plumage.

Grit for Chickens: When in Doubt, Put it Out

September 22, 2022 · Backyard Poultry Contributor · Feed & Health

Keep oyster shells and grit for chickens available free choice to provide vital nutritional supplements for egg layers.

Feeding Your Flock Organic Chicken Feed

August 23, 2022 · Rhonda Crank · Feed & Health

When deciding to use organic chicken feed for your flock, it’s first good to know what to feed chickens for a healthy diet. Believe it or not, an interesting fact about chickens is they don’t need grain to survive. Most people don’t realize chickens are not primarily herbivores (plant eaters).