After the super cold dry winter we had, the rains are here and the grass is getting green. The chicks are in the stores now. It's amazing how many people go to the farm stores just to see the babies!
We put in a special order for chicks that should be arriving the last part of March. So we are gearing up for baby chicks; building a new coop, cleaning up the brooder, ordered an EcoGlow for brooder heat.
I'm working on trying to design a different waterproof feeder. The two-tiered feeder we are using now in the coop works fine, as is, but the next coop we are building will need a different system. If the feeder pans out as planned, I'll be certain to post pictures.
We changed out the red low-wattage heat lamp with a soft pink night light. Having a light source all night seems to help them feel safer. There's not a lot of ambient lighting at night in our backyard, and I'm hoping that the light discourages predators who like the darkness.
The girls are doing really good. They are loving the warmer weather and all the new bugs. Although the coyotes have been close by, they seem to be staying away from the coop. We don't seem to be having too much problem with mice or other little critters. I think the fact that we move the coop each week has been helpful with that.
So far, the eggs have been a big hit with family and friends. Several people have started purchasing the fresh eggs and rave about the flavor. I think the fact that the girls always have fresh pasture and bugs, contributes to the great taste.
