Reviews by Hen Pen Jem

This is such a fantastic breed. I have found them to be smart, and willing to interact with me. They even learned to cackle in such a way, as to almost simulate language! I would call to my alpha hen, by name, "Taji, Taji, where are you?". That hen would reply to me, "cackle, cackle, buck-buck-buck.", translation, "Here I am, sitting under the grapefruit tree.". LOL!

However, they can get somewhat aggressive with other chickens, occasionally. But, it was this trait, that enabled my Ameruacana to become the alpha hen. And, her majesty, was an excellent leader. She kept the hens in line, stopped any squabbles, did not tolerate, defiance. A quick thrashing would take care of anyone, disrupting the peace.

I also, observed tenderness and acceptance from my Ameruacanas. When I brought a rescued, little game hen into the flock, Taji's sister, Inky, accepted her, when the rest of the flock ingnored and even tormented her with constant pecking. One evening, as I was going to close the coop door, I observed the little game hen, with her head hanging low. Inky stood next to her on the perch. Suddenly, Inky stretched her wing out and placed it over the little game hen, as if she was a chick! They were best friends, from that night on.

This breed has impressed me so much, that I am currently hatching another generation of Ameruacanas. Not only are they beautiful to look at, they are intelligent, strong, and friendly birds.

I think I will always have Ameruacanas in my flock. They truly are, a beautiful and regal breed.

What a handy book to have. The reader can quickly check on anything about chickens. There's lots of great information, and interesting things to read about. For instance, the "Trap Nest". I never heard of it, let alone, thought of such a contraption! But, I surely could have used one, on several occasions.

Talk about learning something new!

The photo illustrations showing all the different chicken breeds, is a good reason to get the book. I really recommend this book, especially for those new to chicken keeping.

Another great book by Gail Damerrow!

I really have enjoyed my Black Star "Filamena", she is retired now. But still retains her beauty, sweet personality and smarts! She was very consistent when she was laying, about 5-6 eggs a week, the first two years. She still lays an egg every now and then, but has had a reoccurring health issue. However, at age three, she is a strong and happy little hen, which has helped her to persevere. She has received a status promotion, from high ranking flock member, to my personal pet chicken!

I really like this water fountain. In addition to the giant water founts, it is a convenient water source for the chickens while they are out foraging. I have one under the trees, in the front and back yards. I also use one up at coop, in the recreation pen. The chickens always have water near by. It's also very handy to have an extra one for when you need to add some medicine to their water, or other special recipes for them to drink.

As for durability, they are made of BPA free plastic, and last for several years. The oldest container I have, is five years old. It is the clear container that will eventually crack from exposure to the elements. But, I discovered it can be easily repaired with some "Flex Seal". The green screw on base can also have a new life, as it fits other containers!

It will last longer, if you keep it clean. This is good for the health of the chickens too. I use 2 parts Baking Soda to 1 part Citric Acid, sprinkle in the container and lid. Then, just add water...it will foam up and break down the calcium, just give a little scrub with a brush, and rinse.

Flip over a sturdy flower pot, and set the water fountain on top. The chickens love this product, I do too!

For 3 years, I have been using Predator eyes on two pens that are located next to a gully, which I later found out, serves as an animal freeway! Coyotes and bob cats routinely travel the route. Since I put up the Nite Guard Predator Eyes, there have been no problems with them attempting entry into either pen. However, day time is another issue...but, all the chickens are locked up in their coops at night, all windows are covered with hardware cloth and bolted on, and the coop is surrounded by dig proof pens.

With all these measures it is still stressful for the chickens when they sense a predator outside. So Nite Guard Predator Lights/eyes are another good thing to add to the arsenal!

This is an excellent book for someone who is thinking of getting chickens. It's also inspiring for chicken keepers that want to improve or add some creativity or whimsy to their current chicken environment.

It is full of great ideas for coops and runs, plantings for chickens, as well as, caring for chickens. Good tips and info about dealing with waste and predators too. Lots of pictures and illustrations to get you thinking!

Beautiful book!