Coastal Country

Raising chickens is not an easy task and requires a lot of time management and discipline. If you have a poultry farm, you definitely have a lot of tasks to do. Once you buy the birds from live chicken suppliers, your responsibility begins. It is your duty to raise the chickens responsibly and ensure that they are healthy.

Ensure each chicken has sufficient room to move comfortably. A general guideline is at least 3 square feet per bird inside the coop and 10 square feet in the run. Overcrowding can lead to stress and health issues. More space allows for natural behaviors and reduces the risk of aggression.

A well-ventilated coop prevents moisture buildup and reduces ammonia levels from droppings. Ensure there are windows or vents that allow fresh air to circulate without creating drafts. Proper airflow is crucial for respiratory health. Regularly check for signs of dampness or odor, indicating ventilation issues.

Protect your flock from diseases by practicing good biosecurity. Limit visitors to your coop, disinfect equipment regularly, and avoid introducing birds from unknown sources. Quarantine new additions before integrating them with the existing flock. Stay informed about local poultry health advisories.

Offer a nutritionally complete feed appropriate for your chickens' age and purpose (e.g., layers vs. broilers). Supplement with occasional treats like vegetables or grains, but avoid overfeeding extras that can dilute essential nutrients. Ensure constant access to clean, fresh water. Proper nutrition supports growth, egg production, and overall health.

Secure the coop and run to protect chickens from predators such as foxes, raccoons, and birds of prey. Use sturdy materials, bury fencing at least 12 inches underground, and consider overhead netting. Regularly inspect for vulnerabilities and address them promptly. A safe environment reduces stress and prevents losses.

Observe your chickens daily for signs of illness or distress, such as lethargy, abnormal droppings, or changes in appetite. Regularly check for external parasites like mites or lice. Maintain a relationship with a veterinarian experienced in poultry care for guidance and assistance.

Chickens naturally clean themselves by dust bathing, which helps control parasites. Provide a designated area with dry soil, sand, or a mixture including diatomaceous earth. Ensure the area remains dry and replenished as needed. Encouraging this behavior promotes hygiene and well-being.

Regularly clean the coop to prevent the build up of droppings, which can harbor bacteria and attract pests. Use absorbent bedding materials like straw or wood shavings and replace them as needed. Consider composting manure for garden use, turning waste into a valuable resource.

Keep your chickens mentally stimulated by providing perches, pecking objects, and opportunities to forage. Enrichment reduces boredom, which can lead to negative behaviors like feather pecking. Rotate activities and introduce new challenges to keep the environment engaging.