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12 Reasons for Low Fertility in Chickens and Other Poultry

Rosecomb Rooster

  Like all reproductive qualities of poultry, fertility has low heritability. However, many factors other than inheritance come into play. Most of them are related to either mechanical issues or faulty management. Let’s look at the 12 most common reasons for low fertility in chickens and other poultry.   Mechanical Issues 1. Comb Style Single […]

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Placing a Value on Chickens Killed by a Dog

Dalmatian

Placing a value on chickens killed by a dog is not always easy. To start with, most backyard chicken keepers value their chickens much more than the birds’ economic value. However, anyone wishing to obtain compensation from the dog’s owner must set aside emotions and try to make the best case for the chickens’ monetary […]

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Difference Between Production Chickens and Show Chickens

Prize Show Chicken

Production chickens are efficient producers of eggs or meat. “Efficient” means outputs are maximized, while inputs are minimized. In other words, production chickens are bred to produce more eggs or meat while eating less feed. The main difference between production chickens and show chickens is that efficient production is not a consideration in breeds developed […]

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What Is a Strain of Chickens?

Chickens from the same bloodline

A strain, also called a bloodline or simply a line, is a family of related chickens. They are distinctive in having been selectively bred by a single person or organization long enough for all the chickens to be uniquely uniform in some way. Each strain of purebred chickens has all the traits that define its […]

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Turkey Breeds List Comparison Chart

Use this chart to compare turkeys to determine which breed you want to buy. Turkey Breeds Egg Production Purpose Temperament Mating Ratio Roost Height Country of Origin APA ALCB Black Slate Turkey Poor Egg Laying, Meat and Exhibition Active 7 Females to 1 Male 2+ Feet North America Yes Watch Status Black Spanish Turkey Poor […]

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How to Care for Bantam Chicks Shipped by Mail

Bantam Chicks Ready to Ship

Bantam chicks shipped by mail arrive tired, hungry, thirsty, and sometimes chilled. A little extra TLC in the form of the three Ws of bantam chick care — Warmth, Water, Watch — will help ensure that your new arrivals settle safely and comfortably.   Chicks hatch with yolk reserves that continue to provide nutrients for […]

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