Building the Flock

Jennifer Greene Sullivan

March 20, 2018 

February 3, 2018, my husband visited our local livestock sale, and unbeknownst to me, he brought home several birds to place in our yard’s empty coop. On the back of his truck, I saw: four Barred Rocks, six Buff Orpingtons, a Blue Maran, an Ameraucana, a Rhode Island Red rooster, a Silkie mix, and two turkeys. I was happily surprised that he took initiative to start our flock, but we had issues with the old backyard coop. Unfortunately, the coop still needs a replacement door, but our flock is doing well.

We added to our numbers and bought this new coop March 17, 2018.

Several issues have arisen as the days have progressed: pneumonia and predators. Because we started our flock in the winter months, many hens and roosters can suffer from pneumonia. We talked to our neighbors who have a flock that is several years old for advice; the Jones’ suggested immune boosters inside the water supply. Farm Supply has several options; ultimately, Chris and I chose VetX, Poultry Remedy. Choosing VetX allowed to focus on the affected animal. It is imperative to check the health of your flock several times a day, which would include successful egg laying.

Harassment from predators and lack of nutrition can cause a decrease in egg production. Our eight year old miniature schnauzer, constantly runs around our coop and barks incessantly. His harassment decreases the egg production of our hens. In order to improve production, we discipline our pup to keep him from the coop and increase the laying pellet feed for our older hens.  Why is proper nutrition good for egg production? Proper nutrition will improve laying frequency and egg size. In the last week or two, we have noticed that our hen’s egg production has decreased due to the decline in temperature. Since it is early spring, the cooler nights and morning can affect egg laying.

Ultimately, building our flock will be a constant chore. This Saturday we will sell some of our younger hens as well as our older hens who are not producing. Although I find it hard to depart with my beloved birds, my goal is to improve egg production in order to incubate and brood; therefore, we must replace these hens with hearty, frequent egg layers.