Tag: chickens

Chickens and Heat Distress, What to Do

When Should you Supplement your Flock with Electrolytes?

In the heat of summer, there are warning signs when chickens are suffering from heat distress. Once you recognize these signs, consider them as a reason to add electrolytes. Electrolytes are available in feed stores that carry retail poultry products, even Amazon will have it. You’ll find easy-to-follow instructions on the back label informing you how much to put in their drinking water. 
Warning Signs Heat Distress
Panting, holding their wings away from their body.
Combs and wattles a deep red, or pale.
Restlessness.

Electrolytes
Orpington

Signs of Heat Stress | What to Do
Much more dangerous is Heat Stress. Below are the signs your chickens are in great danger and could even die if you don’t act quickly.
Not eating or drinking.
Pacing.
Disoriented.
Wobbling.
Lethargic.
Dark reddish-purple wattles and combs.
Submerse chicken in warm water (a 5 gal. bucket from Home Depot works nicely) and move the bird to a shady spot. Don’t bring the bird indoors, it will only cause more stress when returned outside. A fan nearby would be ideal. Don’t try to force water, when the bird cools down it will drink on its own. Chicken feed is not important at this point,  don’t push it, offer watermelon instead.

More Information…

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Welcome Hatch-A-Longs

Yesterday was hatch day. My usual redundant morning chores were certainly more exciting, to say the least when I was greeted by newly hatched fuzzy butts. This was the first time hatching eggs for Peaches, a four-year-old Silkie hen.  She’s very proud and protective of her babies, nevertheless, I’m keeping a close watch on her inexperienced mothering. The brooder is set up and ready to go if needed.
This was a trial run for Peaches, the fertile eggs I placed under her were a barnyard mix. What I know for sure is the eggs are from a Leghorn and an Ameraucana. But the rooster? That will remain a mystery.
It will be a nice change to have birds other than Silkies and Cochins in my barn, these little hatch-a-longs will remain here as permanent members of the flock. Mamma and chicks will be moved to the barn with the others, confined to a corner in full view of the flock at 2-3 weeks old.

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Choosing a Chicken Drinker | Types, Ideas, DIY

View Drinker Types

Which drinker is right for your chickens? It depends on many factors, to say the least.  Convenience should certainly be considered, but keep in mind, there are a variety of different drinkers available for many different reasons.
For every need (or problem) someone has no doubt found a solution.
See all the different drinker types, get some ideas, and even learn how to make your own…

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