Chicken Availability and News from Ranch Hag Hens, Petaluma CA

Predator Dangers with Backyard Poultry

2010-09-06T15:08:00.000-07:00

Sturdy housing, fencing without loose staples or nails and ensuring your flock is tucked in safely at nightfall is essential.

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.

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.

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.

Baby Chicks Hatch & Spring Hens

2010-08-25T09:30:00.000-07:00

The 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.

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.

In the Spring (when the snow melts)the ladies shown here will be available for sale!

Where's the Ranch Hag?

2010-07-30T13:44:00.000-07:00

We've had a ton of inquiries and wanted to make certain to keep you updated. Here's our update on flying the coop.

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 and with the book due in November, Dawn has been typing, typing, typing.

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.

Royal Palm and Burboun Reds Hatching

2010-07-28T08:36:00.000-07:00

The 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.
Here they are at two weeks old!

Old Chickens, New Chickens

2010-03-29T18:44:00.000-07:00

We 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!

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.

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.

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.

If you are planning on adding to the flock this year? Hen House Harmony is a proven saving grace.

* Hen House Harmony. 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.

* 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.

* 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.

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.

What are your Spring Thoughts?

2010-03-24T17:28:00.000-07:00

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.

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.

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.

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!

Best to you during this lovely season.

Wet Weather Mishaps

2010-01-20T05:52:00.000-08:00

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.

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.

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.

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.

If you are reading this I hope you are laughing.
My hope is that your chicken tending adventures are fun, fun, fun - just a little less embarrassing and painful.

I can GUARANTEE you this little darling(pictured hiding in the goat house)won't be stepping out into the rain today.

Rain Tips

2010-01-19T21:16:00.000-08:00

It's cold. It's windy. It's wet.
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.

Here's some hens hiding out underneath the barn.

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.

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.

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.

Anyone else have any suggestions? We are all ears.

Thoughs on Moving

2010-01-16T17:55:00.000-08:00

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.

The top photo is what we have grown accustomed to viewing.
The photo below it is the reason for the chapped lips and cool mountain air.

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.

Fences need to be built & barns constructed from scratch. Horse stalls taken down, driven a zillion+ miles into the mountains and reassembled. OMG!!

Wonder how the chickens, ducks, turkeys, goats and horses are going to fare in the high mountain desert? It's Chapstick for all.

How Fresh Are Those Eggs?

2010-01-10T12:01:00.000-08:00

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?

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.

Allow us to give you a little information on the benefits of the magical protective layer that a fresh chicken eggs comes equipped with? There's no need for washing or refrigerating. It's the oh-natural way.

Going to the Market?

2010-01-05T08:09:00.000-08:00

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.

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 salmonella and campylobacter. Gross, right?
You bet.

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!
Bon Appetite!

2010 BRINGS ABOUT MANY CHANGES FOR RANCH HAG HENS.

2010-01-01T16:30:00.000-08:00

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.

Thank you to everyone who supported the backyard chicken movement! At this time all of the beautifully feathered ladies have flown the coop.

Please sign up for our e-mail newsletter (down and to the right) for special updates on chicken availability, sales and natural product promotions.

Excessive Breeding

2009-12-29T16:59:00.000-08:00

Holey smokes.
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".

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!!

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.

Chicks for Christmas Delivery

2009-12-02T14:42:00.000-08:00

Several (actually, way too many) inquiries have been made into the availability of day-old baby chicks for 'Christmas delivery' -
Ho, Ho, Ho, Ho, Ho! Followed by no, no, no, no, no.
And, here is the story and the Bah-Hum-Bug of it all.

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.

- 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.

Back on track, back at the desk, back to ......
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.

But, if you find yourself unable to resist the fluffy little balls of innocence we recommend our Just For Chicks package to your Holiday Shopping List along with several Healthy Basics to keep them in optimum health: Colloidal Silver, Vitamins and Electrolytes and/or Healthy Hen Wellness Tonic to their daily rations.

Treats for Chickens

2009-11-02T14:28:00.000-08:00

When your feathered flock is in need of supplies - supplies that are proven to work....scratch on over to Treats for Chickens for the latest and greatest.

A cheer to health and happiness for the modern backyard chicken.

2009-09-30T09:08:00.000-07:00

Okay, so we have to admit that we had a darn good time strolling about along the Trail.
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!!

Hope you all enjoyed your weekend.
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.

Take care for now.

*****************

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.

We want you to do the same. Get yourself a Farm Trails map and get out and have some fun.

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.

Community Sharing - Food, Chickens, Eggs, etc

2009-09-11T05:58:00.000-07:00

Hey, Good Morning Everyone.

Here's a cool concept...... From seed to flower to food....

from chickens, come eggs!

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.

The House Chicken?

2009-09-09T17:31:00.000-07:00

There are house cats. Why can't there be a house chicken?
Kind of an interesting thought, right?

Well, let me tell you why it's not a good idea. Poop. Lot's of poop.
I have been trying to train a chicken to not poop in the house. And, believe me....my family is delighted that my quest is over with.

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.

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.

Yes, I had to clean them up. All of them.

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.

Sweet Seabrights Need Good Home

2009-09-08T06:52:00.000-07:00

A 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.
If you (or anyone you know) is in the market for some choppy little fellas with big hearts please contact us.
RanchHag@RanchHagHens.com
(would have included their photo but my tecky skills are seriously lacking this AM)

Have a great day folks.

Happy Labor Day

2009-09-07T18:36:00.000-07:00

We decided to make the most out of our Labor Day!

58 chickens
2 adult broad breasted bronze turkeys
3 ducks
5 chicks

All the above animals got a bath today. Yes, they all loved it.

Happy holiday everyone.

Sammy's Back * **Day Old Chicks

2009-08-27T06:45:00.000-07:00

Sammys back in town!!
We are so, so, so happy to have her back.
A Summer Voyage and Road Trip pulled her from the farm but she hung up her territory maps for another season full of feathered friends.
Guess what that means?

It means she conned me into ordering fuzzy little chicks - who could resist?
Clearly, not I.
So, we have chicks. Fuzzy little darlings.
Black Australorps
Silver Laced Wyandottes
Rhode Island Reds
and New Hampshire Reds

Come on out and take some home.
Vaccinated for Marek's, fed organic starter mash and supplemented with Healthy Hen Wellness Tonic.

Welcome Back Sammy!

Thousand Year Old Eggs

2009-08-25T05:57:00.001-07:00

As promised here are the additional photos of the thousand year old eggs that we had the pleasure of taste testing.

Shown above is the finished egg product with the shell fully intact.

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.

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.

Adding Chickens to an Existing Flock

2009-08-21T06:14:00.000-07:00

Yes, chickens can be added to your existing flock. Horray!!
It just takes time and patience on the chickens part and you'll need to be involved just a bit.

The concept of 'together but separate' is essential. Give your flock time, together but separate, 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.

We've got a few products that have proved effective in the transition. The pyramid pens are fully collapsible (and wonderful to use in the garden as well) and then there's Hen House Harmony to put everyone on a level playing field with no bumps in the road to making friends.

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.

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.

Cluck 'n Go Chicken Offer

2009-08-19T10:47:00.000-07:00

A SPECIAL OFFER FOR CHICKEN LOVERS!

Get some chickens, have some fun and save some $$.
Simple as that.
We call it 'Cluck 'n Go!'

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.

You: purchase two chickens (more if you'd like), Colloidal Silver (snippet on CS below) and Hen House Harmony.

Us: send you home with the third chicken of your choice - absolutely free. Do you love this?

Business hours:
Fridays: 4pm to 7pm.
Saturdays: 10 am to 4pm.
Sundays: Noon to 4pm.

What is Colloidal Silver:
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!

Offer Expires August 24, 2009.
Promotion on Chickens from June 3rd Hatch.
Cash or Checks (on this offer), Please.

My Newest Chicken Addiction: Mottled Bantam Cochins

2009-08-15T19:44:00.000-07:00

I swore off Bantams a bit ago...No more minis.
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.

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?

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.
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!

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.

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.
We have 1lb bags that are suitable for urban backyard flocks.

Not Your Ordinary Trip for Chickens

2009-08-14T14:24:00.000-07:00

Plan a trip to the Sebastopol Gravenstein Apple Blossom Fair this weekend, August 15th and August 16th then after you've had fun at the festival located at Ragle Ranch Park in Sebastopol -- mosey on over to Ranch Hag Hens in Petaluma to pick up your chickens for your urban backyard.

The Petaluma Farmers Market is held at Walnut Park on Saturdays from 2pm to 5pm. Check it out and pick up some tasty local treats. There's usually some live music jammin in the center of the park too.

Want something just a little bit fresher - like right out of the ground?
Andersen's Farm & Pumpkin Patch
4588 Bodega Highway, Petaluma.
Andersen's is located a quick five minutes North of Ranch Hag Hens.

Ranch Hag Hens retail hours for chickens and supplies Saturday, August 15: 10am to 4pm. Sunday, August 16: Noon to 4pm.

This is Sonny. He's my favorite. He's on a diet.

Quick Egg Satisfaction

2009-08-10T07:43:00.000-07:00

Okay, I've finally done it. "It" being that I have compiled a list of our more mature gals that are nearing laying (or laying) - many of you have asked for it and I'm happy to report the list below, finally.

The girls listed below are between four and six months of age - unless noted as layers.

Two Iowa Blue; layers.
Two Ameuracanas; four months.
Three Gold Laced Wyandottes; five 1/2 months.
Three Red Sex Links; four months.
Two Cuckoo Marans; five 1/2 months.
Two Red Sex Links; layers.
One Buff Orpington; five months.
One Barred Cochin; five months.
Two Black Cochins; five months.

Many of you drive a bit of a distance to visit us so please send an e-mail inquiry b4 you make the trip for these girls.

August 7-9 Specials Extended *

2009-08-05T05:52:00.000-07:00

We are so happy at the response of our 'packages' that we are extending the specials through Sunday, August 16th.

FUN PRODUCTS FOR YOUR CHICKENS
AND PROMOTIONS THAT SEND YOU HOME SKIPPING.

PLUS, FREE VITAMIN & MINERAL SUPPLEMENT W/PACKAGE PURCHASE

Healthy Hen Package. $33. (photo above)
Food Grade Diatomaceous Earth
Healthy Hen Wellness Tonic
Colloidal Silver Super Healer and
5 lbs Scratch

Nesting Box Package. $33 (photo below)
Food Grade Diatomaceous Earth
Nesting Box Luxuries
Studio Nesting Box
Urban Straw Bale

Just the Insides Please. $15 (no photos, batteries died)
Food Grade Diatomaceous Earth
Nesting Box Luxuries
Urban Straw Bale

Fun Photos of the Farm

2009-08-02T10:42:00.000-07:00

Sissy the Master Hunter and "The Patch" of Squash

Thank U Chicken Lovers

2009-08-02T07:53:00.000-07:00

Opening day came and went and, - yes we were running around like wet hens! It was super fun! Thank you Bay Area for stopping in, selecting your chickens and products and rushing home to beat the heat and give your girls a lovely new home - - whew, long sentence.

I'm headed back out to collect my breakfast. Perhaps a turkey egg for this mornings feast? Maybe duck eggs- Dennis and Jake prefer chicken eggs. Maybe I'll make a turduken omelet? Yes, I believe that's what's on the menu for b-fast!!

Cucina Paradiso - Off the Cuff Restaurant Plug

2009-07-25T17:59:00.000-07:00

HERE'S MY PLUG FOR A FANTASTIC RESTAURANT IN PETALUMA:

CUCINA PARADISIO

Excellent food, great selection of beverages, desserts to die for and kick-butt service folks that are awfully attendant.

A must try: The Mixed Italian Appetizer. A total masterpiece of scrumptious!
Be sure to order an extra to take home for that midnight snack.

Chicken Moulting Madness

2009-07-22T18:31:00.000-07:00

Get ready. Autumn is nearly here.
You'll start to notice your gals look a little bare. You'll also notice their coop, run or how about your yard in general ...looking like the mower ran over a down pillow. Molting is similar to a 'bad hair' day - except it lasts far longer. More like a really bad hair cut!

Some of our girls have started their 'bad hair' cycle a bit ago. It seems as though the pygmy goats are shedding a bit of fur themselves. Maybe it's just excess fur from all the rubbing and mashing they do up against rough objects so they can get their itch on!

Oddly enough, I was moving some potted veggies and unearthed what appeared to be a perfectly intact lizard scale. Is that the correct terminology?

Stay tuned for updates on great little remedies to assist your girls along with their seasonal moult.

Rare & Heritage Breeds for 2010

2009-07-21T20:43:00.000-07:00

Have you noticed the Chicken Madness? Newspapers, magazines, blogs, websites devoted to chicken care and radio talk shows are spreading across the nation - it's all about chicken. And, why shouldn't it be?

With this little epiphany in mind we have made a concerted decision to raise a few select breeds of chickens that are threatened because the agricultural mindset has changed. Modern food production is horribly in favor of mass producing select breeds in a less than pleasant or natural environment. It's just awful.
Many traditional poultry breeds have lost popularity and are near extinction. So, with that in mind...we are featuring rare and endangered breeds for Spring of 2010.

Exact breeds are still to be determined but we do have a couple great one's decided upon - just more fun stuff we've got stuffed under our wings.

PS: just made the most delicious egg salad concoction. Then, because I was on a 'domestic' roll, threw together a scrumptious carrot (from the garden) and zucchini (also from the garden) bread. Mmmm.

Chicken Hawk Attack

2009-07-20T18:10:00.000-07:00

If you've got younger gals running about freely please do your best to protect them from overhead predators such as hawks, crows and Blue Jays. Grrrr, those nasty Blue Jays and Chicken Hawks. I don't want to completely rule out the necessity of crows...often I have found them to be tattle tales alerting me to hawks and Blue Jays nearby. But they still do their best to eat the eggs which really tends to get on my bad side.

Wanted to provide a photo of our sweet little One Eye'd Sally but the batteries to the super slick camera are dead, dead, dead. Great machine that is completely worthless without those trusty batteries. Damit.

Anyway, it's been several weeks since that darn bird swooped down and tried to take her from us. She's lookin' pretty swanky if you ask me. But you can't tell since there's no flippin photo. Can you feel my annoyance?

Nonetheless, we gave her plenty of TLC and some of our natural remedies that we can't wait to spotlight with you when we re-open.

The countdown continues: 11 more trusty days.

Chickens, Pullets and Barnyards - Oh MY!

2009-07-20T17:54:00.000-07:00

I had no idea what serious withdrawal I would go through not being able to Bloggy, blog, blog my days away.

That time is OVER and I'm back to type away my infinite babble about the many wonders of chickens and what we've been up to for the last few months. Sooo, many changes on the farm.

Stay tuned as I promise to write everyday until we re-open on August 1st for our big August Chicken Sale. We think you'll like it.

In August we will have pullets hatched in May. May 13th to be exact. That would be Grannies 84th birthday- in fact. Those are special birds and I'm certain they will have unique personalities as Granny was a spitfire herself.

We've also got girls from a June 3rd hatch. Many Standard breeds to choose from.

Then, (as my posting title mentioned) there are Barnyards. My special favorites. Maybe it's an Ameuracana and a Barred Rock combo. Could be a Polish Top Hat and a Crevacor mixer. Some appear to be Oppenzeler Spitzen Hauben (I know I spelled that incorrectly) with a New Hampshire Red. I will spare you the continious Frankenstein combinations ....these are truly unique gals and to be honest it will be hard to part with them but they are georgeous.
We'll have them available on the lawn to choose from. All should begin laying in approximately six to eight weeks. Give or take your girls hormonal set.

Check our availability to the right to see what's cooking - ouch, bad chicken term - to see what is available. We promise to try and keep it current. No guarantees as we expect quite a flurry.

Thanks for hanging in there Backyard Chicken Fans.

Exciting Changes in the Hen House

2009-07-10T08:23:00.000-07:00

Okay, where do I start?

We, me, I... all of us... are really excited to announce some changes to Ranch Hag Hens. And we think you'll dig it too.

Products?
Many of you have sent inquiries about my last posting and newsletter announcement of 'products'......I promise, they (products for your chickens) are on their way - not just yet though.
Seriously, when will Ranch Hag Hens Re-open?
The First Weekend in August.
Saturday and Sunday, August 1st and 2nd. Check back for hours - they will be different than in the past.

Chickens.
It's time we get to the really good stuff.

As of August 1st all our girls will have been outside and will be ready to go-go-go!
We've got a lot, a lot, a lot of Standard Breed feathered gals. Check to the right of this posting to see our available breeds, pricing and ages.

Check back for more details and stay tuned for the 'fluffin' in the house' -

El Cerrito Approves Chickens!!

2009-06-08T13:52:00.001-07:00

My dear friend Linda has done it again. She's a persuasive gal and this time she's really done it. So, for all you East Bay folks out there.....El Cerrito is gettin' hip with the Chicken Movement. If you don't already have plans for the 4th of July come on down (or up) to El Cerrito and celebrate - we'll be in Booth 49.

PS: we are always looking for volunteers in the area to help us set up and take down our chicken paraphernalia. Contact us if you are available - or just show up. See you there.

Hey there Granny?

2009-06-03T11:34:00.000-07:00

The little girl shown in the photo (below, far right) is Granny at a sprite age. She passed away on May 30, 2009 after living a life of humor, sarcasm and love. We will miss her dearly.

The farm is closed this weekend to remember her life and the times we had with her.

Enjoy your weekend with family, friends and all those kids that are graduating. Don't want to spend your weekend with family or friends? Strike up a conversation with someone new - you never know what you might end up learning. Granny was well known for her knack of talking to anyone, anytime about the strangest things.
We'll see you next weekend.

Ranch Hag Hens -

PS: we had a few preemies hatch the other day. Two days early. They are sooo cute and tiny.

Rotten Duck Eggs

2009-05-29T06:09:00.001-07:00

Did you know that a rotten egg (of any variety, I imagine) will explode and sound like a gun shot if allowed to oohhh, let's say ferment and decay in it's natural habitat?

If you've been out and purchased chickens you might have seen the four (now five) ducks sitting very protectively, on their massive batch of eggs. This has been going on for sometime now - far beyond the 28 days for a normal hatch. To be honest, I couldn't keep up or keep track as they egg numbers increased EVERYDAY. So, I figured I'd let nature take its course and let the ducks be ducks and eventually hoped they would be momma ducks. Until yesterday.

The rancid smell. I can not even begin to describe it. Whew, wee!
72 eggs later and only eight had what would appear to be a living creature inside. Talk about some serious candeling. The entire property stunk so bad and according to my family - so did I.
Believe it or not, I went out this morning and the ducks are at it again. Trying to be mommies.

Please collect your eggs everyday or you to will have the pleasure of finding stinky egg bombs!
Enjoy your weekend folks.

Anti Icky Poo for Chickens

2009-05-20T17:17:00.000-07:00

This stuff totally rocks!

We were introduced to this great product and want to share it with you. Got chicks in the house? Teenagers outside accidentally poopin’ on your patio? Was your favorite hen anxiously awaiting your arrival and she just ‘couldn’t wait?!’

Anti Icky Poo has so many uses beyond urban and suburban chicken clean-up... and it has a pleasant scent that’s not overbearing. No headaches with this formula.

What’s in Anti Icky Poo? Live bacteria and enzymes. How cool is that? We think, very cool.

Use it anywhere you’ve got a mess and don’t want to use harsh chemicals. I'll give you a hint: it cleans up the odors (and their stains) from A to Z. We haven't had the pleasure of cleaning up dead bodies (the label indicates it will clean up the odor and stains from dead bodies!!) but we have used it to rid areas of chicken poop, skunk spray (on Dawn's head), vomit from a chicken with sour crop and our beloved Basset Hound (who makes a mess where ever she pleases) ---you may know her best as Stinky.

Whoo Hoo for Anti-Icky-Poo!!

Heat Lamps, Davis and Berkeley

2009-05-17T19:24:00.001-07:00

Whew, we walked into the barn this morning to discover a heat bulb situation that went south....very south.
The bulb burnt a hole in the floor. The chicks are fine, the barn is fine - it all does smell a little like campfire though. So, please be sure that your brooder has plenty of ventilation (not drafts) and that your brooder lamps are secure. No need to be burning the house down all in the name for the love of chickens.

We'll be at the U.C. Davis campus on Monday morning meeting with renowned U.C. Davis professors, veterinarians and experts. What's the meeting about? Hmmm, what else .....chickens!! Good times.

Monday mid afternoon its off to the East Bay to spread the infinite chicken wisdom with our Berkeley Backyard Chicken Fans.

Stay tuned for more absurd situations and updates.

Marek's, Egg Color, Egg Production & Cats

2009-05-16T08:28:00.000-07:00

Hey there.
We've had a flurry of questions regarding Marek's vaccine, egg color, egg production and cats.
Here are my immediate thoughts:

Marek's vaccine is a one-time deal. The vaccine must be administered at hatch. Just when your little one's dry out. That's the only window of opportunity. Ranch Hag Hens vaccinates our chicks because our current location was previously a full production chicken ranch in the 20's. Not to mention the fact that we feel it's vital to give the protection. It's a real drag to love and care for such an adorable little hatchling to have it pass away at 16+ weeks. Taking the extra precaution is well worth the effort.

Egg Color. Ah, yes. Chickens lay different colored eggs. It's pretty flippin' awesome too. Select chickens that can offer you a variety of egg color. All chickens get along regardless of breed or the color eggs that they lay. Spice it up a bit. Mix up your breeds - have fun.

Egg Production. Everyday we hear this question....."what chicken lays the best eggs, the biggest eggs, the most eggs?"........ chickens lay eggs dependant on the weather, their environment and the food that you provide to them. Also, of note: chickens lay an egg approximately ever 24-26 hours. Sometimes it takes a little longer. You will likely find that they lay eggs between 7am and 2pm. At least that's how it works around here. If you are most concerned with the egg production its best to stick with Brown or White Leghorns.
We prefer to add variety.
Standard breeds are great layers. Bantams a bit less. Cochins (although extremely adorable and precious) lay small eggs - okay, tiny eggs.

Cats. Hmm. Cats and chickens. Our cat, Sissy, prefers to hunt for furry things that poke their heads out of the ground and to chase four legged little things with tails. If your cat is a hunter of birds then it's best to be sure you protect your baby chicks from your curious kitty. Our experience tells us that cats don't pay too much attention to older chickens. Perhaps someone has another experience they'd like to share about this?

That's it for my ramblings! It's going to be hot today. Keep your flock hydrated and provide treats later in the evening to reduce overheating.

p.s. the Arugula is growing!!!

El Cerritos Backyard Chicken Movement

2009-05-14T16:28:00.000-07:00

Here's a shout out to all you Backyard Chicken Fans! Did you know that the City of El Cerrito is up and coming with the backyard chicken movement? Heck ya. I love it - another town that has come to the conclusion that chickens roaming freely in urban and suburban backyard settings really isn't all that bad. They've had a little bit of persuasion from my dear friend Linda - WhooHoo, Kudos to Linda for loving those chickens!!

Stop by and see us in El Cerrito on the 4th of July (location still to be determined) when we partner up with the City of El Cerrito and Heifer International to educate folks on the importance of backyard chickens, sustainability and giving a little when you can.

A Chicken Proof Garden

2009-05-11T08:49:00.000-07:00

We've got a chicken proof garden. Is it possible? You bet! We are using the Pyramid Pens that we have for sale in the barn. Come on by and get some for your garden. Fully collapsible with lids. $20 each.

If you look closely at the first box garden you'll see a special touch added by Sammy - it's a Peace Patch of newly planted Arugula seeds. We love it and can't wait to eat our first handful of fresh greens.

I've heard it takes a tribe to raise a family . . . so, with that in mind, Happy Belated Mother's Day to All.

What is that Smell?

2009-05-09T08:51:00.001-07:00

Guess who got sprayed by a skunk at 7am this morning. Yep, right between the eyes.
I saw it all in slow motion. AND, let me tell you....I stink. Two showers and a full bottle of Bloody Mary Mix later and I still smell like I just got dug-up.

What prompted my little meeting with my furry black and white friend? He/She ate three of my precious little pullets the night before. Chomped their heads off and left the rest for me to look at in horror.

Well, with three little funerals behind me and two long showers ago...I'm off to vaccinate more chicks for Marek's. I need to get outside and let Mother Nature help me with my stench.

A Quick Update on Chicken Care

2009-04-30T08:32:00.000-07:00

Major inconsistencies in the weather can be a little stressful on your girls. One day it's smoking hot and the next its cool again.

If you have laying hens you might have noticed a decrease in eggs.

Fear not, production will pick back up.

Just putting your girls out? They might be a little chilled at night - so make sure they have a warm place to cuddle to keep warm.

Chicks inside? Water, warmth and plenty of snacks and they will be just fine.
If you are not already providing your pals with vitamins, now is a good time to do so.

We've got V&E on-line and in the barn.

Please be sure that your flock is well hydrated. Make plenty of fresh water available to them.

It's very important to take your chicks home as quickly as possible and to get them settled in their new environment. Minimal handling for the first week is recommended to ensure they continue to thrive.

Friday, April 3nd

2009-04-03T07:40:00.000-07:00

Thank you to EVERYONE that attended the class in El Cerrito. It was a scratching success. Many thanks to Linda for inviting us to pull up and take over her driveway for an afternoon of "all things chicken."

Our next stop: The Early Bird Breakfast Brunch in Windsor. Check out 'The Pollinator' for details.

For those who don't have time to read the newspaper front to back - I've selected a fun read about a journey to urban chicken farming and Ranch Hag Hens in particular. It's a long read so get comfy and settle in - we feature about paragraph seven and it's smooth sailing to the end.