Donna Weekes

A prolapsed vent is one of the most alarming conditions a chicken keeper can face. It appears suddenly, looks dramatic, and often leads people to believe it was unavoidable or simply “bad luck.” In reality, a prolapsed vent is rarely random . In backyard flocks, it is most often the result of long-term nutritional imbalance , even when the foods being offered are considered “healthy.” Understanding why  this happens is key to prevention. What Is a Prolapsed Vent? A prolapsed vent occurs when...

My Whiting True Blue went through s hard molt this past Fall. A strong immune system is your flock’s first and most important defense against illness. Chickens are constantly exposed to bacteria, viruses, parasites, and environmental stressors. While we can’t prevent every pathogen from entering their environment, we can  ensure their bodies are strong enough to fight back. For backyard chicken keepers especially, prevention is critical. Poultry veterinarians are not readily available, and...

When it comes to raising healthy chickens, many poultry keepers and consumers alike are quick to shy away from anything labeled “GMO” (genetically modified organism). The word often carries negative connotations, conjuring images of unnatural science experiments or potentially harmful chemicals. But when it comes to poultry feed, this widespread fear is largely based on misconception rather than fact. Understanding GMOs in Poultry Feed Most commercial poultry feed contains ingredients like...