tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-75369159039735226482024-03-21T09:05:20.770-07:00Chicken Availability and News from Ranch Hag Hens, Petaluma CARanch Hag Hens - Supplies and Sales for Your Urban Backyard Chicken FlockRanch Haghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02966010693158457341noreply@blogger.comBlogger47125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7536915903973522648.post-85835957710806106822010-09-06T15:08:00.000-07:002010-09-08T20:33:28.048-07:00Predator Dangers with Backyard PoultrySturdy housing, fencing without loose staples or nails and ensuring your flock is tucked in safely at nightfall is essential. <br /><br />Well, even the a professional poultry lunatic such as myself has a run in or two with predators. In the spring we lost a turkey to three juvenile foxes and I was sickened. Luckily for them they ran off with their full bellies full like Ronald McDonald. No, wait..I'm thinking of the purple guy..what's his name...Hamburgler? Is that right? Yep, those little foxes ran off wallowing in their fullness just like Hamburgler. Gross.<br /><br />So, needless to say we've had another series or run-in's with predators. Coyotes' this time. It's an awful shame to loose an animal you care for. I get that there's a circle of life but I'm going to complete our farm (and its circle of life) by getting a Livestock Guardian Dog to protect what is on our farm for a reason. We've got dogs but these dogs are scare-de-cats when it comes to howling coyotes. And, I can't quite say I blame them. <br /> <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe3QQDRvHh-YShbLyOqHcbBsa3nf5kbnI2OYoELGGeQKf9dXe42Z4Mpz8VAY6Y7cGBbYtHpZ6PK8oliX5SaBd_AVA6UWI8yzDNJM3aiLK6J_h97PhRgp0akhmcZI2I29WUkEwWk9484y9F/s1600/turkeys+in+windo.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe3QQDRvHh-YShbLyOqHcbBsa3nf5kbnI2OYoELGGeQKf9dXe42Z4Mpz8VAY6Y7cGBbYtHpZ6PK8oliX5SaBd_AVA6UWI8yzDNJM3aiLK6J_h97PhRgp0akhmcZI2I29WUkEwWk9484y9F/s320/turkeys+in+windo.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5514750015496412098" /></a>The good news is that our heritage Royal Palm and Bourbon Reds are growing like little weeds. Shown here atop the wood pile sneaking a peak inside the kitchen window wishing it was open. A few have made their way into the house by way of following a nosy Buckeye hen. A nosy hen who insists on laying her eggs under the drawing table in the office. I've got an open door policy so it's difficult to keep the hens out, dogs in (or dogs out), cats out (or cats in), so at times there's a few chickens and maybe a juvenile tom turkey on the tile floor looking for some grub.Ranch Haghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02966010693158457341noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7536915903973522648.post-26609223868553822272010-08-25T09:30:00.000-07:002010-09-08T20:55:42.110-07:00Baby Chicks Hatch & Spring HensThe chicks hatched on August 23rd! I could kick myself for not getting pictures of them taking their first beak full of water, food and stretching out those legs. But here they are on August 25th just two days old scurrying about their brooder in complete happiness.<br /><br />All that's needed to start your own backyard flock is a heat bulb, water fountain, some chick starter and a safe, draft free location - preferably inside your house, garage, barn, storage room or basement. And, of course some baby chicks. <br /><br />In the Spring (when the snow melts)the ladies shown here will be available for sale!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU3HwGeeuJ5IkuKk_jM-Oil7I75XzAghuGs1Mxwn_q1zPg_dHK3MmN8GNSl1aOOu990zICJ65txfDeJ6ECdoCfwbQHz4rFsjMRVRK7tm4Q_9HbCKJYD2ab40dpZyKHR2eg8nX0bZL57UwS/s1600/IMG_2256.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU3HwGeeuJ5IkuKk_jM-Oil7I75XzAghuGs1Mxwn_q1zPg_dHK3MmN8GNSl1aOOu990zICJ65txfDeJ6ECdoCfwbQHz4rFsjMRVRK7tm4Q_9HbCKJYD2ab40dpZyKHR2eg8nX0bZL57UwS/s320/IMG_2256.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5514756482303822466" /></a>Ranch Haghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02966010693158457341noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7536915903973522648.post-44464212918333091422010-07-30T13:44:00.000-07:002010-07-30T13:54:51.731-07:00Where's the Ranch Hag?We've had a ton of inquiries and wanted to make certain to keep you updated. Here's our update on flying the coop. <br /><br />We are tending the garden (chicken proofing), adding-on to coops (so we can have more chickens!), preparing the pastures for the turkeys, incubating chicken eggs, developing and creating new treats for your chickens <span style="font-weight:bold;">and</span> with the book due in November, Dawn has been typing, typing, typing. <br /><br />In addition to all that typing she's collecting material submissions to include. If you have anything to submit please forward to dawn@ranchhaghens.com. Include your name, city and state and any information you'd like. Please send photos as attachments as opposed to including them in the text of your e-mail.Ranch Haghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02966010693158457341noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7536915903973522648.post-37175255660551000872010-07-28T08:36:00.000-07:002010-09-08T20:41:39.447-07:00Royal Palm and Burboun Reds HatchingThe eggs hatched on July 14th and the heritage turkeys continue to grow, grow, grow. They'll be outside foraging and playing in the tree branches in no time.<br />Here they are at two weeks old!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCk2nmR3slnYGSjxVecHl_P-2T06BedJ4w9ETvy02Qj0NKps09ZU-ryz7oPgJJn9u_pqK29fJq5meo90NUoH9vQ-fVpB9in7w5kijtqPTxcHEZYt1KM0Zwth-AIgyw1OhXsocgcy4UjrWy/s1600/IMG_2140.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCk2nmR3slnYGSjxVecHl_P-2T06BedJ4w9ETvy02Qj0NKps09ZU-ryz7oPgJJn9u_pqK29fJq5meo90NUoH9vQ-fVpB9in7w5kijtqPTxcHEZYt1KM0Zwth-AIgyw1OhXsocgcy4UjrWy/s320/IMG_2140.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5514753680470858546" /></a>Ranch Haghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02966010693158457341noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7536915903973522648.post-84392709447947793682010-03-29T18:44:00.000-07:002010-03-29T18:51:09.323-07:00Old Chickens, New ChickensWe had an overwhelming response to our inquiry for suggested topics. Thank you, thank you, thank you. If your response has not been personally responded to please accept my apologies and know that your topic will be addressed!<br /><br />By far, the most requested topic had to be 'how to blend a new flock with the existing flock?' and 'gardening with chickens' tips....so, here we go for a little tour inside my chicken obsessed brain.<br /><br />Spring is here and if you have chickens we are guessing that you want to add more! Ahh, admit it...you know you have to have some more. Chickens can be bitchy and if you haven't experienced it first hand...you are about to. Especially if you plan to blend you flock with a few newcomers.<br /><br />And, if you don't have chickens you have been itching, scratching and planning to make it a reality. It's so much fun and the benefits of raising your own food and sharing with family, friends and co-workers is fabulous.<br /><br />If you are planning on adding to the flock this year? Hen House Harmony is a proven saving grace. <br /><br /> * <a href="http://www.treatsforchickens.com/healthy.html#henhouseharmony">Hen House Harmony</a>. An animal behaviorist, herb specialist and all out animal lover helped us create this phenomenal blend. For acceptance, tolerance, making friends, sharing personal space and just plain getting along in the hen house! Our Hen House Harmony is based in bio dynamic apple cider vinegar that is free of any alcohol whatsoever, so besides creating a friendly flock, you'll get dazzling orange yolks, and you'll see the overall health of your hens improve. Just add drops when you change, tip or clean the water fountain until the bitchy, bullheadedness comes to a screeching halt. We use this product ourselves (on our chickens) and have great results. No more worrying that Gertrude is going to grab onto Mabel's comb and yank her to the ground with that beak....whew, it can be nasty! Scroll below for Hen House Harmony deals.<br /><br /> * Together but Separate. Best accomplished while simultaneously using Hen House Harmony. The goal is to allow for the establishment of 'pecking order'. Someone has got to wear the pants in the flock and she will surely scratch the surface and you'll know it. And, to keep things in balance there will be a lady who will be perfectly content laying low towards the bottom of this much needed order. If you have a coop that allows both flocks to be together but separated by a fence, screen or other material...give it a go. This process will likely take a few days. If you are lucky they will work it out in a few hours. Be certain that both flocks have plenty of food, water and shade in their specified area.<br /><br /> * Nighty, Night. Under the dark of night it is possible to quietly sneak a few new members into the coop. Simply (and gently) place each chicken on the roost. Something magical occurs while all are sleeping in their near comatose state - it's a wild osmosis sort of thing. At just about Dawn when all begin stirring.. the pecking order has established itself under the moonlight. Please, please, please be advised that sometimes it works and other times it goes terribly wrong. So, the "Nighty, Night" blending and integration of a flock needs to be followed up with a super early rise by you - the chicken steward to ensure the safety of all. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg971ddBovG_bgkL2etOWBKj0kjQ2JfRlDXttI6cb4lbToHoQdFRkBO5ig-U5hX4A_iiBNjE5v4VhkbRWaGIN7aoJHbVNRL8X-5NwiLGjf4RiIo0-oG3rAE0Q7uBGK1h92tc8mW66F2U24W/s1600/NHR+Hen.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg971ddBovG_bgkL2etOWBKj0kjQ2JfRlDXttI6cb4lbToHoQdFRkBO5ig-U5hX4A_iiBNjE5v4VhkbRWaGIN7aoJHbVNRL8X-5NwiLGjf4RiIo0-oG3rAE0Q7uBGK1h92tc8mW66F2U24W/s320/NHR+Hen.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454238338440807058" /></a><br /><br /><br />When deciding to integrate your flocks it's important that you have time to monitor behavior. In the event an all out fowl fight breaks out you want to be nearby to break it up. A sunny afternoon when you have a couple hours, your weekend or a time when 'time' is plentiful is likely your best bet for great results.Ranch Haghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02966010693158457341noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7536915903973522648.post-14538919914297430062010-03-24T17:28:00.000-07:002010-03-24T17:29:05.979-07:00What are your Spring Thoughts?Bloggy, blog, blogg! It's been a while and we have been so busy we feel like something the cat drug in. We love Spring and Summer isn't too far off - needless to say...WE ARE EXCITED this time of year.<br /><br />Are you enjoying the time change? Around here we are on double time. Early to bed, early to rise...all that 'gotta get up before the rooster crows' stuff.<br /><br />We are certainly grateful that evening chores (feeding, watering and securing the hen house) comes a bit later in the evening. Truth be told, we are either in the pastures with the animals or in the barn/office working with customers and sending out orders to our feathered family throughout the U.S.<br /><br />We are currently seeking suggestions for Newsletter topics that are beneficial to you, your chickens and any situation that you are facing - any general inquiries are fine as well. What's on your mind? Let us know and we are happy to oblige!<br /><br />Best to you during this lovely season.Ranch Haghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02966010693158457341noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7536915903973522648.post-39690351341271912292010-01-20T05:52:00.000-08:002010-01-20T08:32:42.567-08:00Wet Weather Mishaps<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih8t2V1coNzvELbYEyTJTTZmM3jnUisH9WAiCS0BI5NWwQjV0Hkg7gehQuNhv_dBamhVTa_0BYvb2nzuPyWRMp4P-7EcKUb3MoNsQryDcZzsxyH2EkgFJ1vnf7X4xZA3iJmJ4uVoCl0NMM/s1600-h/IMG_1425.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih8t2V1coNzvELbYEyTJTTZmM3jnUisH9WAiCS0BI5NWwQjV0Hkg7gehQuNhv_dBamhVTa_0BYvb2nzuPyWRMp4P-7EcKUb3MoNsQryDcZzsxyH2EkgFJ1vnf7X4xZA3iJmJ4uVoCl0NMM/s320/IMG_1425.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428860531579097746" /></a><br />So, I'm slogging around back and forth from barn to barn tending the animals in the morning (while still dark) and slip smack dab in a hefty pile of unknown slop. We have a few different varieties of animals on the property so to specifically identify the exact nature of the slop is somewhat difficult - especially when the rain has been coming down for three days.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzKk17yNJNBSwS4_waaZeiSZjYcD7gBy7CDMJ8tKZgx_mJcIwfmyop2IcIgrfh71LnXJx1OGEFTZ7NyimtB7bxUh7V9mbkhZ8si4zUxEjEgTb37yPjOs3bibk-uMeh3OOWjDYrhOL7Hk6S/s1600-h/IMG_1433.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzKk17yNJNBSwS4_waaZeiSZjYcD7gBy7CDMJ8tKZgx_mJcIwfmyop2IcIgrfh71LnXJx1OGEFTZ7NyimtB7bxUh7V9mbkhZ8si4zUxEjEgTb37yPjOs3bibk-uMeh3OOWjDYrhOL7Hk6S/s320/IMG_1433.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428857048705250786" /></a><br />I got up, checked for broken eggs in my pocket (only broke two, cracked three - the other five remain little gems of gold) and in any other situation I would have dusted myself off but the reality is...this isn't dust. It's mud. I'll find myself a hose before going back into the house.<br /><br />Fast forward to the evening feeding schedule: There I am again, in the barn attempting to get a bale of hay off the top of the six bale stack - whoops, slipped and slammed my left thigh across the gate and did a real special endo onto my left shoulder. I lay there like a complete moron trying to determine if the pain I was feeling was from the fall or perhaps the hay hook had taken a personal and un-welcomed stab into my body. <br /><br />I still don't know what happened to that hay hook - it's missing, but my left thigh looks like I rolled in blackberry pie and feels tough like an abalone.<br /><br />If you are reading this I hope you are laughing. <br />My hope is that your chicken tending adventures are fun, fun, fun - just a little less embarrassing and painful.<br /><br />I can GUARANTEE you this little darling(pictured hiding in the goat house)won't be stepping out into the rain today.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDZRTgUzaYYrPBBKEdYu5Fk5sxm28VbJX6x9Y689dQBnXmgiU9D-Ldl4xFFexjk0e8cSJqFce245rRVw1apTFZJgJnG28cFrRfJMk-DI5Ur3AccJKUFIb3rOrGhod5Qc-FsiZpiBoiFtPu/s1600-h/IMG_1440.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDZRTgUzaYYrPBBKEdYu5Fk5sxm28VbJX6x9Y689dQBnXmgiU9D-Ldl4xFFexjk0e8cSJqFce245rRVw1apTFZJgJnG28cFrRfJMk-DI5Ur3AccJKUFIb3rOrGhod5Qc-FsiZpiBoiFtPu/s320/IMG_1440.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428858756875421266" /></a>Ranch Haghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02966010693158457341noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7536915903973522648.post-14472209780295746972010-01-19T21:16:00.000-08:002010-01-20T08:15:18.066-08:00Rain TipsIt's cold. It's windy. It's wet.<br />Do give your flock the opportunity to get out and enjoy the muddy earth between their toes. There's ample bugs and worms for them to grab a beak full of and they'll enjoy it.<br /><br />Here's some hens hiding out underneath the barn.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-nv6u14XfmAziK9SRgFJVRqerkrAxWjiuyop_uy155U7FWz5SoZBRf0LASX6RKBd4Z-Yt71u8hqxklQZUPT0V8LtKsk5bkwZwfsOIcgnIs_JHv8vF8cj9h7pNw82C3-pAj7FhW7MmRHMt/s1600-h/IMG_1436.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-nv6u14XfmAziK9SRgFJVRqerkrAxWjiuyop_uy155U7FWz5SoZBRf0LASX6RKBd4Z-Yt71u8hqxklQZUPT0V8LtKsk5bkwZwfsOIcgnIs_JHv8vF8cj9h7pNw82C3-pAj7FhW7MmRHMt/s320/IMG_1436.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428856184178357890" /></a><br /><br />If it's possible be certain to have dry bedding for them in their coop. The bedding acts as a great insulator for these damp and wet evenings.<br /><br />Dry food is a MUST. If their pellets, crumble (or whatever concoction you are feeding to your flock) gets wet - discard it. Don't let it mold. Toss it in the trash. Don't try to compost it. <br /><br />And, clean water. Oh, dear. Chickens must have clean water available to them. The cooler the better which just so happens to be what we are featuring around here with this weather and all. <br /><br />Anyone else have any suggestions? We are all ears.Ranch Haghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02966010693158457341noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7536915903973522648.post-41652060840531068502010-01-16T17:55:00.000-08:002010-01-20T09:58:15.497-08:00Thoughs on Moving<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpZJDFBWwNVBZEGdLV0So64qeBzWiU3CL099rm4I43aoHa0-q3T2EvKyavXQ9DlMPITy0YsSyzIrN0MX7C-9793c-XiqxSL00suxcTlij8e3srpCUlyxOJ8_yuGT1kf-WLh1iWBE2-Yvsj/s1600-h/IMG_1427.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpZJDFBWwNVBZEGdLV0So64qeBzWiU3CL099rm4I43aoHa0-q3T2EvKyavXQ9DlMPITy0YsSyzIrN0MX7C-9793c-XiqxSL00suxcTlij8e3srpCUlyxOJ8_yuGT1kf-WLh1iWBE2-Yvsj/s320/IMG_1427.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428861719767936354" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8hGLmo7LB5ns6MOb-nBasJMZ_ZpLvgxZ8PL4Pgn6-f8yGKNwtqpX5xbkOC2xPCwNY_A1BmT2R_gO3zTBqYUwKSboe91VjFkceeVjbOSzdoRiLmNJ8u_-kvFpvpadNbWMLrEzaFthwK6bs/s1600-h/IMG_1412.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8hGLmo7LB5ns6MOb-nBasJMZ_ZpLvgxZ8PL4Pgn6-f8yGKNwtqpX5xbkOC2xPCwNY_A1BmT2R_gO3zTBqYUwKSboe91VjFkceeVjbOSzdoRiLmNJ8u_-kvFpvpadNbWMLrEzaFthwK6bs/s320/IMG_1412.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428863217190453154" /></a><br />Well, it's clear that we are on the move. Or at least moving toward being on the move. For every box that is packed and each and every trailer load that we have towed thus far you would think we have made a dent in the progress. Every bone and muscle in my body aches and Darnit - my lips are chapped from the new chilly mountain air.<br /><br />The top photo is what we have grown accustomed to viewing. <br />The photo below it is the reason for the chapped lips and cool mountain air.<br /><br />Our temporary chicken coop (below with high fence surrounding it) is just that - TEMPORARY! In need of much work but it will do until construction on the barn begins.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtsv_mD6ENTydjZdPyM1YRPAzvmKoCoOz61tYx6DCvLMFEBfzcqEEqGEQ7PVnY8DFGUPL9D9LlqGAj9ycu_LGasMiishcvtkTk47yvZere4OJqr3tcj0rjvrobu-9nOOPt3Ky4eUppHcY5/s1600-h/IMG_1100.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtsv_mD6ENTydjZdPyM1YRPAzvmKoCoOz61tYx6DCvLMFEBfzcqEEqGEQ7PVnY8DFGUPL9D9LlqGAj9ycu_LGasMiishcvtkTk47yvZere4OJqr3tcj0rjvrobu-9nOOPt3Ky4eUppHcY5/s320/IMG_1100.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428882576926797394" /></a> <br /><br /><br />Fences need to be built & barns constructed from scratch. Horse stalls taken down, driven a zillion+ miles into the mountains and reassembled. OMG!!<br /><br />Wonder how the chickens, ducks, turkeys, goats and horses are going to fare in the high mountain desert? It's Chapstick for all.Ranch Haghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02966010693158457341noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7536915903973522648.post-69535178110017331682010-01-10T12:01:00.000-08:002010-01-13T12:09:11.413-08:00How Fresh Are Those Eggs?According to Consumer Reports (Sample Issue, 2010), for most food, the expiration date indicates the last day the food should be consumed. Why is there an exception for eggs?<br /><br />Hmmm? It seems (not our opinion) that Federally graded eggs in their shells are safe for three to five weeks after the expiration date on the carton, as long as you keep them refrigerated.<br /><br />Allow us to give you a little information on the benefits of the <a href="http://www.ranchhaghens.com/fresh-eggs.html">magical protective layer</a> that a fresh chicken eggs comes equipped with? There's no need for washing or refrigerating. It's the oh-natural way.Ranch Haghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02966010693158457341noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7536915903973522648.post-60481704800018607212010-01-05T08:09:00.000-08:002010-01-13T12:18:06.599-08:00Going to the Market?When shopping at the market whether it be a Farmer's Market or big chain store please keep in mind that when you are purchasing your meat, seafood or poultry you should pick those items up last. Very last and then zoom home to the freezer.<br /><br />Horrifingly enough, there was a test compiled in 2007 (a test among chain stores, NOT FARMER'S MARKETS)that reported that out of 525 chickens tested - only 17% were free from <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Salmonella">salmonella</a> and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Campylobacter">campylobacter</a>. Gross, right?<br />You bet.<br /><br />Don't get all freaked out. Just make a simple alteration to your normal market schedule and get your frozen and refrigerated items last - and then go home!<br />Bon Appetite!Ranch Haghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02966010693158457341noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7536915903973522648.post-92082628555534591862010-01-01T16:30:00.000-08:002010-07-05T16:30:49.743-07:002010 BRINGS ABOUT MANY CHANGES FOR RANCH HAG HENS.In the Spring of 2010 Ranch Hag Hens, family and farm animals will roost in higher elevations in a remote location in Northern California. As a result, Ranch Hag Hens will focus primarily on Treats for Chickens, their Heritage breeding program and the "Ranch Hag" herself will be completing the Great American Novel - her chicken care and behavior book - due late 2010, early 2011.<br /><br />Thank you to everyone who supported the backyard chicken movement! At this time all of the beautifully feathered ladies have flown the coop.<br /><br />Please sign up for our e-mail newsletter (down and to the right) for special updates on chicken availability, sales and natural product promotions.Ranch Haghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02966010693158457341noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7536915903973522648.post-73170642763755338062009-12-29T16:59:00.000-08:002010-01-08T17:04:10.408-08:00Excessive BreedingHoley smokes.<br />Just learned that in China a company, "Yuhe, has doubled its number of breeder farms from 13 to 27 within just a few days – a company surely demonstrating its ambitions for the future".<br /><br />I can't help but think that this is a move that clearly isn't 'demonstrating its ambitions" for the well being of the chickens in the future. Yikes!!<br /><br />So, a special message to all you Backyard Chicken lovers - excellent job and keeping you flock happy, healthy and contributing to your families organic intake. Keep up the good work.Ranch Haghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02966010693158457341noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7536915903973522648.post-45168649801976063552009-12-02T14:42:00.000-08:002009-12-04T14:46:28.489-08:00Chicks for Christmas DeliverySeveral (actually, way too many) inquiries have been made into the availability of day-old baby chicks for 'Christmas delivery' -<br />Ho, Ho, Ho, Ho, Ho! Followed by no, no, no, no, no.<br />And, here is the story and the Bah-Hum-Bug of it all.<br /><br />Baby chicks are a seasonal arrival, no doubt. But not a winter seasonal arrival. If chicks hatch during the later months of the year (October, November, December, etc.) they need to be indoors for a minimum of eight weeks before we tempt them with all the wonders of outdoor living in a coop; full-time. This time schedule puts them outside somewhere in December, January & February. And the last time we checked the weather Doppler - these months are WINTER. Did we mention 'wet' and 'cold'? We aren't exactly skipping around in our shorts early in the mornings and late in the evenings.<br /><br />- unless of course you've wandered off to a tropical island to live the remainder of your days swinging from a hammock all the while your feathered fowl scratch in the sand for a flea or two.<br /><br />Back on track, back at the desk, back to ......<br />So, fellow urban backyard chicken lovers please do what you can to hold out just a little bit longer for the Sprunging of Spring. Your chicks health will benefit from it immensely. Mother Earth intended it this way. Promise.<br /><br />But, if you find yourself unable to resist the fluffy little balls of innocence we recommend our <a href="http://www.treatsforchickens.com/just-for-chicks.html">Just For Chicks</a> package to your Holiday Shopping List along with several <a href="http://www.treatsforchickens.com/healthy.html">Healthy Basics</a> to keep them in optimum health: Colloidal Silver, Vitamins and Electrolytes and/or Healthy Hen Wellness Tonic to their daily rations.Ranch Haghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02966010693158457341noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7536915903973522648.post-80014948786171849632009-11-02T14:28:00.000-08:002009-11-11T14:32:12.710-08:00Treats for ChickensWhen your feathered flock is in need of supplies - supplies that are proven to work....scratch on over to <a href="http://www.treatsforchickens.com/">Treats for Chickens</a> for the latest and greatest.<br /><br />A cheer to health and happiness for the modern backyard chicken.Ranch Haghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02966010693158457341noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7536915903973522648.post-21462069050818723512009-09-30T09:08:00.000-07:002009-09-30T09:28:03.003-07:00Okay, so we have to admit that we had a darn good time strolling about along the Trail.<br />We did get a bit astray though and found ourselves out at the beach and by God....the water is still as cold as I remember it. Freezing!!<br /><br />Hope you all enjoyed your weekend. <br />October is nearly here and the weather is changing. I don't know about you but I pulled out my snuggly jacket to wear during my evening barn chores. And with the changing weather that means longer nights and more opportunity for predator attacks. Please be certain to have secured your flock prior to dusk/nightfall settling in.<br /><br />Take care for now.<br /><br /> *****************<br /><br />Because Farm Trails is such an awesome organization that brings farms and folks together, we at Ranch Hag Hens have decided to play hookey and spend the entire Farm Trails weekend getting to know our neighboring farmers.<br /><br />We want you to do the same. Get yourself a <a href="http://www.farmtrails.org/map_guide.php">Farm Trails </a>map and get out and have some fun.<br /><br />What this means is that Ranch Hag Hens will not be open during Farm Trails. However, if you see us exploring out along the trail please don't hesitate to say Hi.Ranch Haghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02966010693158457341noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7536915903973522648.post-3618618983463610582009-09-11T05:58:00.000-07:002009-09-11T06:21:44.699-07:00Community Sharing - Food, Chickens, Eggs, etcHey, Good Morning Every<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeYx7QnFyLt_yT5uRnyIL-rgT3qQLl_2OMpJHWV4N5VCINhxFmUdV-iWzUzpNpQpGSnDle7G4TcaIIhhT5i4hJcg8-t_-GKTObJxfjZeb4Z113yEWpkzK9U8mqFurK1Dw3EUErm3mKbQN8/s1600-h/IMG_0987.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeYx7QnFyLt_yT5uRnyIL-rgT3qQLl_2OMpJHWV4N5VCINhxFmUdV-iWzUzpNpQpGSnDle7G4TcaIIhhT5i4hJcg8-t_-GKTObJxfjZeb4Z113yEWpkzK9U8mqFurK1Dw3EUErm3mKbQN8/s200/IMG_0987.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5380194902778282898" border="0" /></a>one.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXFtNy3kyOyBQQRFiTz0Lp2FEEL1iUibJbA4Q68dOGbb6I0rpa_DHoWOYVOlQWEqaEGFb5gvEJKGPOB3BzWwmPJRBk4DrmWYyVkEScXqQy8lAXrnlhCN5-aXeBjJhnxAoyBFAXrUMWiNLr/s1600-h/Pretty+Flower.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXFtNy3kyOyBQQRFiTz0Lp2FEEL1iUibJbA4Q68dOGbb6I0rpa_DHoWOYVOlQWEqaEGFb5gvEJKGPOB3BzWwmPJRBk4DrmWYyVkEScXqQy8lAXrnlhCN5-aXeBjJhnxAoyBFAXrUMWiNLr/s200/Pretty+Flower.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5380195451783312578" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Here's a cool concept...... From seed to flower to food....<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />from chickens, come eggs!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRkmcAefBackuV-1DNDTKLLbRYbdB9poIe6qpHJxpEQIU6iDYD_j3eCn1IDUy8meini8G1QYmoCJiNhKoWKNCBU7uLuTir6EeAZzur1uO90b2jqfvLFGzWfBaIxT-6bvySQeoGe0EYBBnp/s1600-h/IMG_0850.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRkmcAefBackuV-1DNDTKLLbRYbdB9poIe6qpHJxpEQIU6iDYD_j3eCn1IDUy8meini8G1QYmoCJiNhKoWKNCBU7uLuTir6EeAZzur1uO90b2jqfvLFGzWfBaIxT-6bvySQeoGe0EYBBnp/s200/IMG_0850.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5380197346248282578" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOQ4D_wVYaufUA4MoHr76gFdCRmDZCASSwvwSGyj3AjYliTMUjpzOdAmUOBRab-n4p25SdTs7Wi7jQ_pjT4nR3cO76oJva5tHUYNFZml2rFvGETtkIB1yMjgUS1n7v4AcJkoWxyYDEzmzm/s1600-h/variety+of+eggs.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 232px; height: 151px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOQ4D_wVYaufUA4MoHr76gFdCRmDZCASSwvwSGyj3AjYliTMUjpzOdAmUOBRab-n4p25SdTs7Wi7jQ_pjT4nR3cO76oJva5tHUYNFZml2rFvGETtkIB1yMjgUS1n7v4AcJkoWxyYDEzmzm/s200/variety+of+eggs.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5380197868431933970" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Stay tuned as we get involved in widespread events to help those in need during these times of change in our communities and across the land.Ranch Haghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02966010693158457341noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7536915903973522648.post-49670707201220210642009-09-09T17:31:00.000-07:002009-09-11T05:57:50.009-07:00The House Chicken?There are house cats. Why can't there be a house chicken?<br />Kind of an interesting thought, right?<br /><br />Well, let me tell you why it's <span style="font-style: italic;">not</span> a good idea. Poop. Lot's of poop.<br />I have been trying to train a chicken to <span style="font-style: italic;">not</span> poop in the house. And, believe me....my family is delighted that my quest is over with.<br /><br />There's something kind of sweet and innocent about puppy piss but let me tell you.. stumbling into the kitchen at 4am and slipping on chicken sh** isn't nearly as sweet. To be direct...it's just wrong.<br /><br />So, today I gave it one final attempt and when I checked in on my feathered friend I discovered no less than 16 chicken turds on the floor.<br /><br />Yes, I had to clean them up. All of them.<br /><br />But could you imagine pooping 16 times in one day? I know they have a tendency to go quite a bit but this is off the chart.Ranch Haghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02966010693158457341noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7536915903973522648.post-16774122525976233892009-09-08T06:52:00.000-07:002009-09-08T07:15:35.188-07:00Sweet Seabrights Need Good HomeA few little fellas are in need of a good home. They have been lovingly hand raised by a local artist She has too many and really wants them to have happy homes with their own ladies to frolic with.<br />If you (or anyone you know) is in the market for some choppy little fellas with big hearts please contact us.<br />RanchHag@RanchHagHens.com<br />(would have included their photo but my tecky skills are seriously lacking this AM)<br /><br /><br />Have a great day folks.Ranch Haghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02966010693158457341noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7536915903973522648.post-53496180288900065032009-09-07T18:36:00.000-07:002009-09-07T18:39:15.398-07:00Happy Labor DayWe decided to make the most out of our Labor Day!<br /><br />58 chickens<br />2 adult broad breasted bronze turkeys<br />3 ducks<br />5 chicks<br /><br />All the above animals got a bath today. Yes, they all loved it. <br /><br />Happy holiday everyone.Ranch Haghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02966010693158457341noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7536915903973522648.post-15689467611565071632009-08-27T06:45:00.000-07:002009-08-27T10:02:16.465-07:00Sammy's Back * **Day Old ChicksSammys back in town!!<br />We are so, so, so happy to have her back.<br />A <span style="font-style: italic;">Summer Voyage</span> and <span style="font-style: italic;">Road Trip</span> pulled her from the farm but she hung up her territory maps for another season full of feathered friends.<br />Guess what that means?<br /><br />It means she conned me into ordering fuzzy little chicks - who could resist?<br />Clearly, not I.<br />So, we have chicks. Fuzzy little darlings.<br />Black Austr<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0Qb3QzrT079iuDbu5xiaynlzPp13zPJDbmXsczhkh8jpP5ZW7bHnajPL8R6QAaYndf1WyRmM5Wt8DaC68RxIGKpHtRLuuTwK1kpfWwgMunNKsC5VvbYYTPQWuayNj31W1IEGhXnCV3iDH/s1600-h/IMG_0873.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0Qb3QzrT079iuDbu5xiaynlzPp13zPJDbmXsczhkh8jpP5ZW7bHnajPL8R6QAaYndf1WyRmM5Wt8DaC68RxIGKpHtRLuuTwK1kpfWwgMunNKsC5VvbYYTPQWuayNj31W1IEGhXnCV3iDH/s200/IMG_0873.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5374657521384651682" border="0" /></a>alorps<br />Silver Laced Wyandottes<br />Rhode Island Reds<br />and New Hampshire Reds<br /><br />Come on out and take some home.<br />Vaccinated for Marek's, fed organic starter mash and supplemented with Healthy Hen Wellness Tonic.<br /><br />Welcome Back Sammy!Ranch Haghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02966010693158457341noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7536915903973522648.post-3301960374632983802009-08-25T05:57:00.001-07:002009-08-25T06:15:44.243-07:00Thousand Year Old Eggs<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqx0302SR23ZaAFvsmdAjZw22pSxQoFxT42_uOBorb_tconz4dz2114EympRnTkV-kuBuw6wBSOWR1UdCEscxnxH39LtUWINwiGjmQ1FEaNqwiu9m-yKZFF61jSmS0ehw1cy7PtFt1QQKR/s1600-h/Full+1k+egg.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqx0302SR23ZaAFvsmdAjZw22pSxQoFxT42_uOBorb_tconz4dz2114EympRnTkV-kuBuw6wBSOWR1UdCEscxnxH39LtUWINwiGjmQ1FEaNqwiu9m-yKZFF61jSmS0ehw1cy7PtFt1QQKR/s200/Full+1k+egg.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5373888496513209362" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />As promised here are the additional photos of the thousand year old eggs that we had the pleasure of taste testing.<br /><br />Shown above is the finished egg product with the shell fully intact.<br /><br /><br />Over to the far right - I'm not even joking - this is what the inside of the thousand year old eggs looks like with a bit of the egg shell removed.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgscOlLEmkQrgrmWTlZK1KfDF3ZW1klU6VXA76fguUYbyz9gSxqTQVtNcADCp8hXSOEH8CwyMNwK7oh6naIa9vrMBZygBWitLj4-RHzYqb_7rIPuaBad8vxLRIJRtqEvmM_AUDsJAfpRieG/s1600-h/Half+1k+egg.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 188px; height: 122px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgscOlLEmkQrgrmWTlZK1KfDF3ZW1klU6VXA76fguUYbyz9gSxqTQVtNcADCp8hXSOEH8CwyMNwK7oh6naIa9vrMBZygBWitLj4-RHzYqb_7rIPuaBad8vxLRIJRtqEvmM_AUDsJAfpRieG/s200/Half+1k+egg.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5373886960474068786" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />And, finally the thousand year old egg neatly sliced in half. I took a bite. It was odd and then I HAD to hardboil one of its counterparts for comparison.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmA3QeCVdLdk46BYfK3-YXfNaXD0vsdI9cu9EM7_uEFmyU4l493oNSbRe5W9bbDybjRWoxPKq3e9oN4yhsQUFWrFyfVL9TaBuQzrtQxcQwU_uchZ5EMvta-8aYg8W6tJCdAyDc5L_w6T_p/s1600-h/1k+egg+bite.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmA3QeCVdLdk46BYfK3-YXfNaXD0vsdI9cu9EM7_uEFmyU4l493oNSbRe5W9bbDybjRWoxPKq3e9oN4yhsQUFWrFyfVL9TaBuQzrtQxcQwU_uchZ5EMvta-8aYg8W6tJCdAyDc5L_w6T_p/s200/1k+egg+bite.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5373889036175249410" border="0" /></a>Ranch Haghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02966010693158457341noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7536915903973522648.post-54390931857598609822009-08-21T06:14:00.000-07:002009-08-21T06:33:08.638-07:00Adding Chickens to an Existing FlockYes, chickens can be added to your existing flock. Horray!!<br />It just takes time and patience on the chickens part and you'll need to be involved just a bit.<br /><br />The concept of 'together but separate' is essential. Give your flock time, <span style="font-style: italic;">together but separate</span>, to get to know one another and to establish that pecking order. No one wants to give up their cherished special seat on the school bus and a hen... who is otherwise comfortable in her surroundings doesn't take too kindly to having to share her roost space - at first. Ah, these things take time.<br /><br />We've got a few products that have proved effective in the transition. The <a href="http://www.ranchhaghens.com/products/pen-pyramid.html">pyramid pens</a> are fully collapsible (and wonderful to use in the garden as well) and then there's <a href="http://www.ranchhaghens.com/products/feed-hen-harmony.html">Hen House Harmony</a> to put everyone on a level playing field with no bumps in the road to making friends.<br /><br />The transition shouldn't take too long and before you know it everyone will be getting along just fine. They may not chum around like old buddies but they will have established who's who - and who's not.<br /><br />Also keep in mind that mixing chicken breeds is a great idea. It adds color and variety to your landscape and offers you a great selection of egg color choices. So, go ahead and have some fun.Ranch Haghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02966010693158457341noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7536915903973522648.post-7055223629997751542009-08-19T10:47:00.000-07:002009-08-19T10:53:03.128-07:00Cluck 'n Go Chicken Offer<span style="font-weight: bold;">A SPECIAL OFFER FOR CHICKEN LOVERS!</span><br /><br />Get some chickens, have some fun and save some $$.<br />Simple as that.<br />We call it 'Cluck 'n Go!'<br /><br />Ranch Hag Hens is offering you a great opportunity on your next purchase of chickens. Just come on over and swoop up the great discount.<br /><br />You: purchase two chickens (more if you'd like), Colloidal Silver (snippet on CS below) and Hen House Harmony.<br /><br />Us: send you home with the third chicken of your choice - absolutely free. Do you love this?<br /><br />Business hours:<br />Fridays: 4pm to 7pm.<br />Saturdays: 10 am to 4pm.<br />Sundays: Noon to 4pm.<br /><br />What is Colloidal Silver:<br />Colloidal Silver is non-toxic, non-addictive and free of side effects; Colloidal Silver is thought to kill an average of 650 different organisms - compared to the six of a standard antibiotic! It is safe for adults, children, animals and pregnant and nursing women. It can be applied topically and internally and has no reaction with other medications. Works wonders with chicken mishaps!<br /><br />Offer Expires August 24, 2009.<br />Promotion on Chickens from June 3rd Hatch.<br />Cash or Checks (on this offer), Please.Ranch Haghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02966010693158457341noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7536915903973522648.post-25096771929823933782009-08-15T19:44:00.000-07:002009-08-15T20:21:43.538-07:00My Newest Chicken Addiction: Mottled Bantam Cochins<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg37X4TmXn-7OYYzgu-Dvvr1Wihfb2sYPWAgq6xiNwn3pn7NLfEabJIw0IsfzXOqaQm6oJ2HQz4c0vX2x4NLehN3yw0F_0-eKHO9ZNIYIR_e0ldI-nmdWxU9S5XQFAV3sEnxXs7s4MIvo7r/s1600-h/IMG_0954.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg37X4TmXn-7OYYzgu-Dvvr1Wihfb2sYPWAgq6xiNwn3pn7NLfEabJIw0IsfzXOqaQm6oJ2HQz4c0vX2x4NLehN3yw0F_0-eKHO9ZNIYIR_e0ldI-nmdWxU9S5XQFAV3sEnxXs7s4MIvo7r/s320/IMG_0954.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5370392545375227810" border="0" /></a><br />I swore off Bantams a bit ago...No more minis.<br />The little buggers are darn difficult to accurately sex as fuzzy little hatchlings... and their eggs - well, it take two of them (eggs) to equal the size of a standard breed. They just didn't seem feasible for what's on our mind (which, is a whole 'nother bag of craziness)....until just the other day or so. It came to me in quite a clear momment and - and now, I'm going for it.<br /><br />Yep, I decided that I am going to share my absolute addiction of mottled bantam cochins with all of you ....to bad you've got to wait till the Spring though, eh? Ah, the agony? The best things are worth the wait, right? It does no good to stick your finger in the middle of the apple pie while it's still in the oven, right? Right, right, right?<br /><br />For those of you who have been out and seen the playful little buggers skampering about the patio, dashing inbetween dalias and tomotoes and zipping here and there catching flys......they are just too precious...and if you've seen them .....you know what I'm talking about.<br />If you haven't had the chance to gander at the everso curious little feather footed babes - here's a photo (okay, two) for you- with one eyed Sally in the background. She's such a trooper: damn chicken hawks!<br /><br />As always, I want to send out a genuine 'thank you' to all that support Ranch Hag Hens. It's an addiction and I love it.<br /><br />PS: are you using Diatomaceous Earth in your gals nesting boxes, dust baths and in your yard? Please don't use harsh chemicals - go o'natural.<br />We have 1lb bags that are suitable for urban backyard flocks.Ranch Haghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02966010693158457341noreply@blogger.com1