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Cattle need only minimal shelter. During calving it is nice to have a place where the cow and newborn calf can get out of the elements for a day or two. It is good to have a place where they can find shade in hot weather and wind break from the cold. A corral or dry lot must be available to keep the animals in when irrigating and when the pasture needs a rest from grazing. Good fences are important to ensure safety and good relation-ships with neighbors. Electric fences are useful for managing your pasture and should be sufficiently...

Shorter days and cooler temperatures…For people, it’s a sign that it is back to school time and fall. To chickens, it’s a sign that it is time to renew their feathers. Losing feathers and re-growing them is called molting and occurs every year when the days get shorter. During molt, chickens typically stop laying eggs and use this time to build up their nutrient reserves. Even though they are not laying, it is critical that your chickens have a high quality diet during this time. Feeding a high quality ration such as NatureWise Feather Fixer™ during molt will help your...

Keeping your chicken coop clean is one of the most important tasks for maintaining a healthy, productive flock. A clean coop reduces the risk of parasites, disease, and respiratory issues, while also making things more pleasant for both your chickens and you. Whether you're deep cleaning for the season or doing regular maintenance, this all-in-one checklist will help keep your coop in top condition year-round. 1. Remove All Bedding and Waste Start by taking everything out of the coop—bedding, nesting material, and droppings. Don’t forget to check under roost bars and corners where messes can collect. Use a shovel or...

Flock expansion can be an exciting endeavor, especially when you are looking to add a new species or two. It can be a fun and challenging task to meet the needs of a multi-species flock of chickens. Here are a few tips and recommendations to consider if you plan to take your flock to the next level. There are three main areas of focus before caring for a multi-species flock: Coop Cleanliness Living Space Management Techniques Coop cleanliness Providing your multi-species flock with a clean home is of the utmost importance in preventing sickness. Keep the coop clean and dry,...

It’s easy to think about feeding mineral during breeding season. Some people also think about it before calving. Unfortunately, it’s all too easy to forget about the needs of your herd during the rest of the year. Maybe it’s because other tasks are prioritized ahead of putting out mineral. You’ve got to get your bulls tested. Those heifers need to be synched for that expensive semen you bought. The calves need to get their first round of vaccinations. The cows need to be preg-checked. There is just one problem with that prioritization scheme. All four of those other tasks, along...