Hatching Eggs in an Incubator

When hatching for yourself, eggs can go into the incubator at just about any time of the week as long as they won’t later overtax brooding and growing facilities

Working with Broody Hens

The containment for brooding hens should be some distance from other birds to keep the broodies calm and to prevent other hens from laying to their nest. A quiet, darkened area is best and many once built small, broody hen coops.

Starting Your Flock the Fast Way

Ideally, you should acquire pairs or trios from two or three distinct genetic sources from which to then begin assembling your own breeding line. If finances won’t stretch that for — mine seldom do — try to acquire a trio of not too closely related birds from a single source.

Starting a Flock with Baby Chicks

For most folks, baby chicks will be the starting point for their poultry venture — be it rare, heirloom or traditional poultry breeds. Baby chicks are now the means that are accessible to the greatest number of producers.

Ordering Hatching Eggs: What to Expect

Some of the rarest breeds and emerging hot varieties are often only available as hatching eggs.

Heritage Breed Chickens

There is, of course, nothing in the world like the taste of your own farm fresh, organic eggs and meat. Chickens are an easy way to begin food production on the homestead and work a little closer to self-sufficiency.