Keeping a flock of backyard chickens can be a tremendously rewarding experience for families, providing fresh eggs, entertainment, and a connection to the natural world. At Crooked Pines Farm, we’ve found that raising chickens is a fantastic way to teach kids about farm nature exploration, animal care, and the farm-to-table cycle. However, caring for a chicken flock does require some diligence, especially when it comes to collecting eggs and raising chicks. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover the essential tips and best practices to ensure your chickens are happy, healthy, and productive.
Collecting Eggs from Your Laying Hens
The egg-laying cycle of your hens is a key component of successful chicken farming. Each hen will typically lay an egg about every 24-26 hours, with production tapering off during the shorter daylight hours of winter. To maintain a steady supply of fresh eggs, it’s important to establish a routine for collecting them.
Timing is critical: The ideal time to gather eggs is in the late morning, after your hens have had a chance to lay for the day but before the afternoon heat sets in. This not only ensures the eggs are at their freshest, but also minimizes the chances of breakage or contamination. Avoid collecting eggs first thing in the morning, as the hens may still be in the nesting boxes.
When collecting eggs, be sure to handle them gently and avoid sudden movements that could startle the hens. Approach the coop quietly, and use a soft-sided egg collecting basket or carton to transport the eggs. It’s also a good idea to collect any eggs that have been laid outside the nesting boxes, as these are more prone to cracking or getting dirty.
Once collected, store the eggs in the refrigerator at 40°F or below. Properly stored, farm-fresh eggs can last 4-5 weeks. Be sure to label the cartons with the date so you can use the oldest eggs first. Maintaining a consistent egg collection routine not only keeps your hens productive, but also ensures you have a steady supply of high-quality eggs for your family.
Caring for Broody Hens and Newborn Chicks
One of the most rewarding aspects of keeping chickens is witnessing the natural cycle of egg-laying and hatching. Some hens, known as “broodies,” will become determined to hatch their own clutch of chicks. This maternal instinct is controlled by a combination of hormones, lighting conditions, and innate behavior.
When a hen goes broody, she will stop laying eggs and instead focus her energy on incubating the eggs in her nest. Broodies can be quite fiercely protective of their nest, often growling, puffing up their feathers, and even pecking at anyone who approaches. This is their way of guarding their precious cargo.
To support a broody hen, it’s best to provide her with a private, quiet nesting area away from the main coop. This “maternity ward” should have a soft, comfortable base to protect the eggs, as well as easy access to food and water. Broodies will only leave the nest briefly each day to eat, drink, and relieve themselves, so keeping these necessities nearby is crucial.
During the 21-day incubation period, you can periodically candle the eggs to check on the developing embryos. This involves shining a bright light through the eggshell to assess viability. Any eggs that appear lifeless should be removed to prevent bacterial contamination. Be sure to perform this delicate task gently and only when absolutely necessary, as too much disturbance can stress the broody hen.
Once the chicks begin to hatch, resist the urge to intervene. The broody hen is an expert in this process and will instinctively care for her newly hatched chicks, teaching them to eat, drink, and stay warm. However, keep a close eye on the situation, as some hens may become aggressive or neglectful towards their offspring. In these cases, you may need to step in and move the chicks to a dedicated brooder to ensure their safety and proper care.
Chicks should be provided with a high-protein starter feed, clean water, and a warm, draft-free environment. Avoid introducing treats or extra stimuli until the chicks are a few weeks old, as this can disrupt their balanced nutrition. With time and patience, your broody hen will raise a healthy brood, eventually transitioning them to the main flock as they mature.
Integrating Chicks into the Established Flock
Introducing newly hatched chicks to the adult birds in your flock requires a delicate touch. The existing hens may view the newcomers as a threat, leading to aggressive behavior or even outright attacks. To ensure a smooth integration, it’s best to keep the chicks separated from the main flock for the first few weeks.
During this time, you can gradually expose the chicks to the sights, sounds, and even the presence of the adult chickens. This acclimates them to the flock dynamic and allows the older birds to become comfortable with the new additions. When the chicks are a few weeks old and well-feathered, you can begin supervised interactions, closely monitoring for any signs of bullying or violence.
It’s important to provide the chicks with their own dedicated feeding and watering stations within the adult coop or run. This ensures they have access to the resources they need without being overwhelmed or dominated by the larger birds. Additionally, ensure that the chicks have access to hiding spots and perches at their level, allowing them to retreat and feel secure.
As the chicks mature, you can gradually integrate them into the main flock, carefully observing the dynamics and intervening if necessary. With time and patience, your established hens will likely accept the newcomers, and your growing flock will establish a harmonious pecking order.
Raising chickens can be a tremendously rewarding experience, providing your family with fresh eggs, entertainment, and a deeper connection to the natural world. By mastering the art of collecting eggs and caring for broody hens and their chicks, you’ll ensure a thriving, productive flock that will bring joy to your Crooked Pines Farm for years to come. Happy chicken farming!
