Posted on 2 Comments

Coccidiosis — the Scourge of Chicks and Poults

Mixed Chicks

Coccidiosis is the most common disease of brooded poultry. It affects primarily chicks and poults (baby turkeys). But it may also (though rarely) affect keets (baby guinea fowl), ducklings, and goslings. It is the most common cause of death in young poultry. What Is Coccidiosis? Coccidiosis is an intestinal disease caused by protozoa. It most […]

Continue Reading
Posted on 1 Comment

How to Remove Dried Mud Caked on a Chicken’s Shanks and Toes

How to Remove Dried Mud Caked on a Chicken's Shanks and Toes

Anyone who has had chickens for more than a few days soon discovers that they will eat or trample all the vegetation growing near their coop, eventually turning lush grass into bare soil. In a rainy climate, or during times of unusually heavy rainfall, the soil can rapidly become a sea of mud in which […]

Continue Reading
Posted on Leave a comment

FDA Regulates Use of Antimicrobials in Poultry Feed and Water

Hen Drinking water

As of January 2017, backyard chicken keepers will have fewer options for treating sick birds. New regulations restrict the use of any antimicrobial that is administered by means of feed or water. More than 280 livestock products marketed by 26 companies are affected by this rule. According to two guidance documents —  #209 and #213 […]

Continue Reading
Posted on Leave a comment

How Can I Prevent My Chickens From Getting Sick?

How Can I Prevent My Chickens From Getting Sick?

Keeping your chickens healthy is vital to maintaining your flock, whether they are an egg-laying brood or just family pets. Fortunately, diseases in isolated groups tend to be a rare occurrence, but there are some steps you can take to be proactive and protective of your birds.   For starters, make sure that your birds […]

Continue Reading