New Layers!

There is not much in this world more exciting than a new flock of layers. The baby chicks are so cute.  The juveniles are a little ugly as feathers begin to appear, but as they completely feather out they transform into beautiful hens. In the past I have always raised Rhode Island crosses for their prolific egg production. But I am thrilled with the batch we got three weeks ago – 3 Araucanas, 3 Leghorns, 2 Buff Orpingtons, 2 Black Australorps, and 2 Delawares. There is a striking contrast between the breeds. It is a gorgeous flock.  By Easter they will be laying white, brown, and greenish-blue eggs.  If you don’t have layers, I encourage you to improve the quality of your life by getting some. Put a small hen house and run in your back yard.  Buy a few layer chicks. In a few short months you will be eating backyard farm fresh eggs. Feed your hens your table scraps and compost the litter into fertilizer for your garden. They are a great educational project for your children.

 

~dale