Recent content by Liberator

I had 13 chicks hatch. Two eggs are still in the incubator with no pips. I'm not sure how long to keep them in. Is it safe to assume they aren't hatching at this point? I moved all 13 to the brooder at 1 a.m. so I could get some sleep. They're all doing fine this morning. Thanks for your help.

I have 11 hatched, one dead after pipping and four that haven't pipped yet. I was opening the incubator to remove the shells but have stopped. The humidity level is coming up again. I set up the brooder this morning. They kept me up all night! I won't keep them in my bedroom next time. Thanks...

I have no idea what I'm doing. Two more are pipping. Do I leave them in the incubator until they all hatch? This is AMAZING!

I agree. My chickens prefer a wide, flat roost. My first chickens had a 1x1 round roost. They didn't like it and ended up huddled on the ground or roosting on the 1x1 square nest box bar. All of my roosts since then are 2x4 wide side up.

If you are having a problem with raptors stealing your chickens, you can apply for a depredation permit. Am I missing something here? I feel like a broken record! I'm not sure how many more times I can rephrase this. I've added a signature. I hope everyone likes it. I'm done with this post...

The average person (in the U.S.) can apply for a depredation permit through the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, raptors included. We have a right to pursue life, liberty and happiness as long as it does not infringe upon the rights of others. This is a basic fundamental of our freedoms here in...

We must live in different "habitats".

Although it makes you feel good to say this, it is not true. It is illegal if you don't have a permit.

After reading this post I cleaned my Harris Farms waterer and filled it with ice. The chickens immediately flocked to it. I don't like this waterer but I'm willing to apply a little extra effort in the heat. They have horizontal nipples in the coop but hang out in the "jungle" when it's hot...

I don't do any prep either. I finely crush the shells after they have air-dried and add them to the crushed oyster shell feeder. I have never had any problems. The chickens will choose which ever they want.

Corrugated steel for mine. Roof panels (PVC, Polycarbonate) are pretty inexpensive at hardware stores. They are quick and easy to install. They are also easily replaced if damaged.

Living in your part of Idaho, I wouldn't entirely rule out the larger predators, even during daylight hours. It would be best to consider fortification with welded wire.