Awwww, love the baby goats, they are just like rambunctious children. Always sorry we never got into it .years ago, would be too much for us now.
As far as hardy chicken breeds in Maine, do agree that those with large combs and wattles tend to have problems with frostbite. If you don't mind applying vaseline of something every day, then you'll be okay, but they still risk infection and get very disoriented if frostbit. A heartbreaking thing to watch. Would too, stick with peacombs and those types, get several of each breed, and see how you make out. You will be able to have your favorites picked out after just one winter, and take it from there. We at one time had over 20 different breeds and determined our favorites, gave the rest away. You don't want to have to heat your winter coop if you don't have to, right?!!? You will find out where the drafts come in and what direction the wind hits the hardest and secure those sides better. Surely after this past winter you already have that all down pat and will know how to winter proof your coop. But I am just repeating what everyone else has said here, just one more who agrees.
Can't believe I'm talking about next winter already, the leaves aren't even on the trees yet! But every year we swear we won't get caught with our pants down, and every year it happens. Never too soon to start making plans, I suppose.
As far as medicated feed, have never used it in over 10 years, but then again, I do not show my birds or bring in birds from other farms or shows, so guess my risk is much less. There are pros and cons to everything, you just have to do your research and make your choice. It depends on how natural you want to keep things. There is a good blog, naturalchickenkeeping.blogspot.com that discusses these things in depth, along with others. Just read labels and know what ingredients are and what they mean and do. Don't go by say so of anyone else at the feed store. Do your studying! There are some medicated feeds that are "natural," and some are not. Sorry, but it does take time to make important decisions, and depends on many factors.
And almost everyone loses a chick here and there, don't think it's anything you have done unless you have a mass exodus. The strong survive, it's just nature at work. It's horrible, I know, but it happens to the very best farmers and breeders.
So glad to see so many newbies here, after more than 10 years, I still consider myself one. We are always learning from each other and hopefully this site stays up and going forever and ever! Happy chickie days everyone, we should have a good Mother's Day with all these babies all over the place!
