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7 Secrets To Caring For Backyard Chickens In Winter

Saturday, December 7, 2013 16:04
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backyard chickens secrets

Image source: cityboyhens

We love our little flock of backyard chickens like they were our own children. That’s why I get a little nervous when wintertime comes – I want to make sure they are healthy and happy, despite the colder temperatures outdoors. We’ve been raising our own chickens here on our little one-acre homestead for about three years now. I’ve learned a few helpful tips along the way on how to best care for your chickens in the colder months.

1. Some breeds fare better than others

Most grown chickens will survive the winter, even in colder climates. They may not like the cold weather quite as much, but they will do just fine. Some breeds of chickens are hardier than others, and more adapted to the cold temperatures. If you live in a cold climate, you should take this into account before setting up your flock. My favorite cold-hardy chickens are Australorps, Buff Orpingtons, Rhode Island Reds, and Barred Rocks.

2. Daylight has an impact

Chickens tend to lay fewer eggs as the days get shorter. Most hens prefer 13-14 hours of daylight to produce eggs in a regular cycle. As the amount of daylight drops, so will egg production, in most breeds.

Source: http://www.offthegridnews.com/2013/12/07/7-secrets-to-caring-for-backyard-chickens-in-winter/

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