How Strong is an Eggshell?

How Strong Are Eggshells? A Simple Science Experiment

This week we’re going to have a little fun! Growing up, I loved science fair projects They were an awesome time to learn something new, be creative, and have fun This week, we’re going to talk about how strong eggshells are

I know what you’re thinking “Annie, I barely tap my eggshells and they crack!” While eggshells are fairly brittle and seem to crack easily, they are

The Best Eggshell Crafts

Spring is so close here in Minnesota, we can almost feel it! It’s been a long winter here, and we’re looking forward to warmer days With these longer days, come more eggs!

Chickens need 12-16 hours of light to produce an egg So, the girls are coming out of their winter rest and we are getting an abundance of eggs once again

Posted byHoovers 1Posted inAll About Eggs, Seasonal Planning, Youth & PoultryLeave a comment on The Best Eggshell Crafts

What is Water Belly?

I remember when our son, Jett, decided to raise a few broiler chickens He did all the right things and took care of them diligently Yet one day, a couple weeks in, there was a chicken who didn’t look so well She moved slow, was lethargic (yes, I know we’re talking about broilers here!) and wasn’t as “active” as the others

My First Experience with Water Belly

What to Do With Aging Hens

All About the Lavender Orpington Breed

I still remember the first day a Lavender Orpington joined our backyard flock I had been researching breeds that were beautiful, friendly, and dependable in the nest box, and this one checked every single box With soft, silvery-gray plumage and one of the gentlest personalities in the chicken world, it is easy to see why the breed has become such a backyard favorite The Lavender Orpington is one of the calmest, most beautiful dual-purpose chickens you can add to a small flock, and once you meet one, you will probably want a few more

What is Marek’s Disease?

Have you ever heard of Marek’s Disease? If not, today is your lucky day! You’ll learn all about the causes, if it’s treatable and how to sanitize your coop after Marek’s strikes your flock This way you won’t have an unnecessary panic attack like I did the first time I thought I had a chicken with Marek’s

 
Posted byHoovers 1Posted inAdvanced Topics, Baby Chick Care, Chicken Care, Poultry HealthLeave a comment on What is Marek’s Disease?

Can I Use Straw in My Chicken Coop?

For many years I have used pine shavings in my brooders and coop while raising backyard chickens There are a few different bedding materials out there, but pine shavings are easy to use and make great compost When you go to your local farm supply store there will be different types of wood shavings

Make sure you stay away from

The Baby Chick Success Guide

All About the Mystic Onyx Breed: A Striking Addition to Any Backyard Flock

 

If you have been searching for a chicken that turns heads the moment visitors walk up to your run, the Mystic Onyx breed belongs on your shortlist Developed by Hoover’s Hatchery in recent years, this bird pairs glossy dark feathers with the rare trait of black skin It was originally created as a meat bird, but its good looks and friendly nature have helped it take backyard flocks by storm Below, we will walk through everything you need to know before you bring a few Mystic Onyx chickens home