I wanted to answer Del's question on what I've learned here that I've tried/used. I'm not sure I'll be able to think of ALL the things, but here's a list of what comes to mind for me:
-Ash in dust bath for mite/lice prevention.
-Everything about brooding w/a broody. And not being afraid to let the chicks be out in the cold - mom will take care of them.
-Feeding fresh herbs like cilantro as part of their greens during the winter. (Was doing items like Swiss chard, kale, beet tops, etc., just didn't think of herbs!)
-Learned I could look for (and find!) a vintage glass waterer base so I don't have to use a plastic base for my chicks! (I'm as much of a "purist" as possible with the plastic...hate using it...even though I'm using it for my cup waterers right now.)
-Learned lots of tips on how to process for meat. Probably wouldn't have tried it myself if it hadn't been for this thread. Was ready for our trial run and lesson we had with our friends here locally.
-Learned about when it's prudent to cull. Haven't had to do it but I'm glad I learned and am prepared before the fact. I've already considered all those questions ahead of time so that when the time comes I'll be able to have a better idea of when I need to do so, and more courage to carry it out.
-Learned how to examine the internals if I have to cull to try to determine why they may be unhealthy.
-Learned lots of good ways to treat scaly leg mites should I have a bout of them.
I'm sure I'll think of other things .....
Thanks to everyone who participates here.
