Commercial poultry feed is engineered for scale, not affordability or local adaptability. By switching to homemade rations, small-scale poultry keepers can reduce feed expenses by $400–$900 per year (per 50 hens) and boost egg production by 5–15%, provided the formulations meet nutritional standards. All content references the NRC Nutrient Requirements of Poultry (1994), FAO technical…
Arizona’s urban farming movement has transformed backyard chicken-keeping from a hobby into a viable income stream. With consumers paying $4–$7/dozen for truly farm-fresh eggs—double the price of commercial brands—the incentive is clear. But recent legal shifts and avian flu outbreaks make compliance more critical than ever. This 2025 guide demystifies Arizona’s regulatory landscape and provides…
Ever stared blankly at your flock, wondering if that’s really Beatrice pecking near the coop, or just her sneaky doppelgänger, Bertha? If your chickens look more like identical feathered clones than individuals, you’re not alone! Keeping track of who’s who is crucial for monitoring health, egg production, breeding, or just knowing which hen is sneaking…
