In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of having a well-designed backyard and share some ideas for making it more interesting and enjoyable. One great idea is to consider raising backyard poultry, such as chickens or quails, for either meat or eggs.
If you are interested in raising backyard poultry, our comprehensive guide provides all the essential information you need to get started. Let’s dive in and learn how to raise chickens in your backyard.
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Transform Your Backyard: Ideas for Making it More Useful and Enjoyable
How to Raise Chickens in Your Backyard
Raising chickens can be a rewarding experience, but it also comes with significant responsibilities and commitments. Before you start, it’s important to have a clear goal for raising chickens, whether it’s for eggs, meat, or both.
If you’re considering raising your own backyard chickens, it’s essential to know what to do before starting. Check your local city codes to ensure that keeping chickens is legal in your area and if there are any limits on the number of chickens you can have. You don’t want to invest time and money into raising chickens only to find out you’re breaking the law.
Next, make sure you have enough space for a hen house or a full-size chicken coop. A good rule of thumb is to have one feeder and water container, a roosting area, and a nest box for every three hens. The coop should also be large enough for you to collect eggs and shovel manure.
Raising chickens can be a therapeutic, enjoyable, and nerve-wracking experience, but it’s important to have a solid plan in place before you start. With the information provided in our guide, you’ll be well on your way to successfully raising your own backyard chickens.
Other ideas for making your backyard more useful and enjoyable could include creating a garden, building a deck or patio for outdoor entertaining, adding a fire pit or outdoor kitchen, installing a swimming pool or hot tub, or even building a small guest house or shed for storage.
Choosing the right chicken breed
The priority is the type of chicken breed you choose. Then, depending on intentions, ask yourself if you want to breed chicken for eggs or raise chicks. There are chicken breeds better suited for egg production only and meat production.
If you’re a suburban residence, you should stick to egg production. Frequent egg layers such as the jersey giant are more family suited. One thing to note about this chicken breed is you’ll require more space.
When looking for chickens that can double as pets, you have to consider friendliness. Broody chickens aren’t adaptable to human contact. It is because when incubating the chicks, they might lose the ability to eat or drink. However, early stages of exposure to family life and children can assist with the chickens’ friendliness.
What chicken eat
Chickens are omnivores which means that they can’t survive on vegetables alone. Chicken feeds such as pellets or marsh comprise of proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals. All these are in a combination of tallow, sorghum, amino acids, and corn. However, you should avoid supplements such as;
- Other greens such as lettuce Cracked corn
- Electrolytes exceeding ten days.
Understand that electrolytes can be given to chickens as a bonus supplement during hot periods but not frequently. On the other hand, consumption of bugs and grass is safe.
The space chickens need
For roaming purposes, a chicken coop won’t be enough. You’ll need a bigger and fenced area they can roam freely inside and not one where they are congested. Remember that a chicken coop doesn’t have to be expensive, but you’ll have to add extra cash when budgeting for a bigger flock.
The space is essential in having a larger area as it will be vital in preventing chicken cliques from getting out of control. Also, it will aid in giving them warmth and instilling a sense of security.
Keeping your flock locked in will keep the predators away, such as foxes and eagles. Ensure your fencing is cage-oriented to keep these vicious predators out. How you do this is as follows;
- Sturdy flooring to keep critters from tunneling to the chickens
- Running the floor will keep away digging foxes and other predators alike
- Top fencing wire to keep hawks out
As you already know, a chicken coop need not be expensive. Instead, you can choose to go the DIY way by following tech guides from the internet.
Caring for the chicks
Bear in mind that it is a matter of time before your chicken starts laying eggs. If you intend on raising chicks instead of harvesting the eggs, then you’ll have to be more vigilant in caring for the chicks. It is a task that involves a lot of responsibility.
First things first, you’ll have to get the brooding boxes, ensure the chicks’ food dish is large enough to accommodate all of them. The size of the dish should be large such that the chicks can jump into it.
To prevent the chicks from getting cold:
- Ensure that the brooding box is draft-proof.
- For bedding, consider making it soft using pine shavings.
- Lay paper towels under the beddings for the chicks to get proper gripping and standing if the brooder is slick. It also prevents other walking or standing problems.
Chicks don’t develop feathers until they are seven weeks old. It is your sole responsibility to ensure that they are warm. You can use an electric hen plate, heat lamp, or light bulbs. That way, you can tell if the temperature is right depending on their behavior.
Some of these behaviors and their meanings are;
• Eve spacing means that the temperature is right
• Spreading out to the edges of the brooder implies that the temperature is too high
• Huddling means, it is too cold
Climate survival
So, can chickens survive in all climates? Chickens are hardy animals, though; warmer summers can be more dangerous than cold winters. Warmer summers tend to cause heat stress and stroke hence preventing egg-laying in the chicken.
Even though some chicken breeds are better suited for warmer climates, most chickens move less during such hot periods. Less movement aids them in staying cool and conserve body energy. A piece of advice, ensure the water trays are always filled with cool water.
Having a large coop is not only helpful in preventing infighting but also prevents overheating from crowding. Since there is a restriction in the movement of the chickens, it is essential to check on them regularly for heat stress signs.
On the other hand, chickens can survive cold temperatures during the winters due to their high metabolism rate. The metabolism, in turn, keeps them warm even under extremely low temperatures. However, the main concerns are;
- Risk of developing hypothermia due to wet feathers
- Mold breeding as a result of damp bedding
- Frozen wattles
Ensure that the chicken coop is well ventilated to prevent moisture and keep the chickens insulated. For areas where temperatures are below 10 degrees Celsius, you can;
- Use heat sources such as coop radiator
- Provide extra bedding
- Heat the water bowls
Nutritional plan
When it comes to a nutritional plan, ensure you’re providing the correct dietary requirements to your chicken. Keep in mind that the nutritional needs of chickens and chicks differ. Also, when choosing a feeding plan, age is a crucial factor.
Administering wrong dietary requirements can spell doom for your chickens, such as weight loss, decreased ability to lay eggs or grow. On the other hand, giving vitamins alongside vaccines can be helpful in the general improvement of their health.
Always ensure that your chickens and chicks have an adequate clean water supply. If the water is not clean, then it poses a risk to their health. One thing to note, though, when caring for the chicks is to check on them regularly.
The eggs are a great temptation. Fresher and more tasteful than any store-bought eggs, and also perfect for baking. The shells can be thrown straight into the compost pile, along with the chicken feces. Most of the day, the chickens are playing, picking grasses, and larvae that make yummy farm eggs.
Recommended products for raising backyard chickens
- Best Portable Chicken Fence Panels
- Best Electric Chicken Fences
- Best Chicken Transport Boxes
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- Best Chicken Pluckers
- Best Poultry Shears
- Best Turkey Pluckers
- Best Duck Waterers
How to Raise Quails in Your Backyard for Profit
Quail is a tiny fowl that exists in the wild but can also be brought up in a cage in the backyard. Most town ordinances, unlike chickens, do not limit or prohibit quail raising. They are quiet, tiny, even-tempered birds which can generate 5 to 6 eggs a week. Quails are a very nice solution to chicken laying. The quails are productive, like many other poultry birds. And they generate a nice amount of edible eggs. And in some nations, quail eggs are regarded a delicacy. Also, to the very high egg production rate, quails are much cheaper and need less care and management. Also, they need less space and food than other poultry birds, such as ducks or chickens. Is raising quail for eggs profitable? In this article, I’m going through all the details to answer to this important question.
What Are the Main Benefits of Quail Farming?
Farming has proved to be a very exciting and profitable chance for company. Here’s what you should understand to get started on this meat, eggs and game birds breed. Quail meat is regarded as the delicacy. It’s tender, juicy, and more sweet than chicken. Not only will buying quail meat from a grocery store set you back a few big bucks, but it’s difficult to discover as well.
Quails need less room, less food and less care and can be retained in both rural and urban areas. They are an excellent option to chickens or ducks and their eggs are of excellent quality.
Determine the amount of quails you want to have. Quails need less room compared to other poultry birds (such as cows or ducks). So you can raise up to 6 quails in the same room you need to raise a chicken. Did you that n general, a female quail lays between three and four eggs a week. Depending on the number of eggs you want to have, set the number of birds.
If you want them to lay eggs, either to hatch or to eat, you will need an enclosure, feeders, waterers and nesting boxes. You may also need a license from your local department depending on the size of your “covey” quail (a quail group). And what you intend to raise them for.
In your very own backyard, you won’t have to spend extra cash. Only in your backyard, you can raise and grow quails! To increase up to eight quails, you will need only one square meter of territory.
You don’t need to feed quails as often or as much as other domesticated birds. They mostly eat plant-based food and insects, so pile up on wheat and rice bran, blend in some minerals and grains. And you’re nice to go!
Quails seldom catch illnesses that are susceptible to many other birds. They’re resilient and powerful. Even if your birds get sick, so there’s a very large possibility they’ll recover. This allows you to save cash on a veterinarian’s frequent visits.
At 7 weeks old, female quails begin to lay eggs. In over two weeks, the eggs are prepared to hatch. Your quail farm is going to grow quickly.
By feeding your quails 3 kg of feed, you will end up with 1 kg of quail meat, which is considered quite cost-effective.
Their tiny size makes them more affordable than other birds, but more available at the same moment. This way, you can sell your product to individuals with all types of rates of revenue.
In French cooking, the prevalent quail used to be much favored. But now quail is more probable to be domesticated in Japanese quail.
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Good to Know
- For their meat and eggs, an approximately 1.4 billion quail is farmed annually.
- Wild quails eat seeds and insects.
- California Quail, with a tiny head and bill, are plump, short-necked game birds. They fly on wings that are brief, very wide.
- To keep diseases at bay, keep quails separate from other backyard fowl like chickens. And you should try to keep them away from wild migratory birds.
- Quail eggs are about one-fifth of a chicken egg’s size and have found brown shells.
- Depending on how they are grown, the dietary value between chicken and quail eggs are about the same. Eggs from quail are mildly more nutritious than eggs from chicken.
- A female quail lays about one egg a day between the ages of 2 and 8 months and can lay between 150 and 300 eggs a year. The productivity will decrease after about 9 months. Most quails live in captivity for less than a year.
- At least 18 distinct domesticated quail breeds are available you can choose for your farm. British Range, English White, Manchurian Golden, Pharaoh and Tuxedo are common layer races. If you want quails for meat, then you should consider American Bobwhites or Indian Whitebreasted quails.
- Remember to wash. Quails are not birds that are very chaotic. The cages, feeders and drinkers should be cleaned from time to time. Make sure you feel nice about your quails. Check your source of water frequently.
It is easy to raise quail, and since it is less than half the size of chickens, it does not take much space, time or resources. Yet, quail comes with its distinctive difficulties and possibilities, like any livestock.
Also, quail farming does not involve special training. At the same moment, quail farming is a profitable way during the first year of life it provides earnings.
Now that you understand the basics. You can decide whether you want to raise quail at home as a profitable small business or not.
Best Outdoor Quail Cages
Are you a quail farmer looking for the best cages? Or do you keep quail for other benefits? Either way, you are in the right destination. Housing your birds is an important thing. This will keep them away from harsh environmental conditions. You will be regulating their movements. To save your money and time, we have a list of top 10 outdoor quail cages. Consider this guide before you remove your wallet.
Small Cages Breeding with Dividers White
The first thing to notice about the cage is the white color. Pretty attractive and will catch your attention. They are divided for perfect breeding. The construction is great and comes at an affordable price. It is available in different sizes. It comes with 4 feeder cups and feeder doors. Choose the one that will meet your needs.
- 1/2 Inch Bar Spacing And 2 Lift Up Front Door
- 4 Feeder Cups (May Come in Clear or White) and 4 Feeder Doors
- Come With 4 Perches and 1 Wire Divider
- Pull Out Plastic Tray for Easy Cleaning
Prevue Pet Products Divided Breeder, Hampton Deluxe, Cage System Stand
If you are looking for a cage that will house your many birds, Then, this might be your best pick. the manufacturer has used quality iron construction for durability and long-lasting. All the features included are for convenience while using. The cage is designed with caster wheels for movement. You can easily move your birds form one point to another. It is worth to mention that it is divided. Consider this product.
- Innovative, stackable breeder cage with divider
- Ideal for multiples of small birds such as canaries, finch and parakeets
- Quality wrought iron construction with convenient features
- Four perches and four plastic cups are included
- Measures 37 1/2″ Long, 18″ Wide and 20 1/2″ High with 1/2″ wire spacing
Tangkula Coop, 58‘’ Large Chicken Wooden Hen Outdoor House Backyard
There is no doubt that your quails will enjoy this product. It is comfortable and has raised perches. The perches will keep your birds warm, safe, and dry during the rainy season. Also, on hot days they can move to the nesting boxes for shelter. The manufacturer has used premium wood and non-toxic material. Additionally, all the materials used are waterproof and weatherproof. Consider this product for healthy quails.
- Constructed by premium fir wood
- Eco-friendly varnish painted
- Gridding fences & doors for ventilation
- Waterproof warm house for your poultry
- Removable tray for easy cleaning.
Tangkula Large Chicken Coop Wooden
This is the ideal product to have if you have many birds. Typically, it is spacious and friendly design. It is available with a nesting box and a running floor. It features a sliding door that allows poultry to enter into the raised floor. The raised perches will keep your birds warm, dry, and safe. Pretty easy to clean and maintain. The wire fencing will keep off the poultry from dangers. Additionally, the durable construction will last you long. You will meet the value of your money.
Quail, Small Animal, Rodent, Wooden Quail, Plexiglas, Cage, Slide Out Tray
This is a handsome product that is designed to meet your needs. It is manufactured using strong wood for durability and long-lasting. This product comes in different sizes. Choose the one that will meet your needs. It comes when assembled and no installation is required. The manufacturer has designed it with a slide-out tray for easy cleaning and feeding. Typically, it is worth your penny.
YML Small Pack 6 Breeding Cages
The construction is great and comes at an affordable price. On the other hand, it is available in different sizes. It is equipped with 4 feeder cups and feeder doors. The construction is great and comes at an affordable price. On the other hand, it is available in different sizes. They are divided for perfect breeding. Pretty easy to clean and maintain. They are also available in different brilliant colors. Choose the one that will meet your needs.
blessing2220 Indoor Outdoor 58″ Wooden Large Heavy-Duty, Cage, Chicken, Quail, Story Furniture Coop 2
It features a sliding door that allows poultry to enter into the raised floor. The raised perches will keep your birds warm, dry, and safe. Pretty easy to clean and maintain. The wire fencing will keep off the poultry from dangers. It is manufactured using strong wood for durability and long-lasting. Additionally, all the materials used are waterproof and weatherproof.
PawHut 69″ Chicken Coop L Wooden Hen House Nesting Box Run Outdoor
There is a perfect combination of security and accessibility. This product comes with a tray for collecting all the waste and droppings. It is available with a nesting box where your quails can lay their eggs. The manufacturer has used strong wood for durability and long-lasting. It features a sliding door that allows poultry to enter into the raised floor. The raised perches will keep your birds warm, dry, and safe.
PawHut 59″ Enclosed Outdoor Solid Wood Coop Kit Backyard Chicken Nesting Box
PawHut has accomplished a track record when it comes qual and hen cages. This is yet another handsome product designed to meet your needs. there is no much difference from the above one. The solid construction is durable and will keep your poultry safe and secure. The built-in tray is great to collect the dropping during the cleaning. Besides the elegant style, it easier to access the nesting box. The sliding door comes in handy during the wet season.
Premier Game Box Ducks, Crate Transport, Quail, Pigeons, Pheasant, & Poultry
If you are looking for the best outdoor transport cage for quail, then we are happy to suggest this product. It is designed with a solid floor for durability and long-lasting. It features two spring doors for hassle-free accessibility. The non-toxic material used for engineering is strong and durable. Pretty easy to assemble, maintain, and clean. This product will meet the value of your money.
Despite the fact there are many cages in the market, choose the one you can afford. Consulting other users is a prudent decision. Pick your best and buy with us.