SCARCE Presents: Growin’ Green Garden Market

Exciting Garden Market Event Coming Up! Are you ready for a fantastic day out surrounded by nature and greenery? Mark your calendars for our upcoming Growin’ Green Garden Market, presented by SCARCE—it’s going to be a hit for families and gardening enthusiasts alike!

Event Details:

• Date: Saturday, May 4, 2024
• Time: 9:00 am – 1:00 pm
• Location: 800 S Rohlwing Rd (IL Rt 53), Addison, IL

Here’s why you won’t want to miss it:

• Native and Food Plants Galore: Discover a wide variety of native plants and delicious food plants perfect for your garden. Whether you’re into herbs, veggies, or ornamental blooms, there’s something for every green thumb.
• Green Organizations and Products: Explore eco-friendly options and learn about sustainable practices from local green organizations. Find innovative products like compost (pre-order compost here by April 27th), rain barrels (order here), and seedlings (order here and select SCARCE as your pickup location. Pickup is at the market on May 4th) to help you live more sustainably.
• Fun Activities for All Ages: Enjoy a day filled with crafts, music, and hands-on activities for kids!

Join me at the event where I’ll be sharing insights on keeping chickens. You can meet a live bird up close and learn about these feathered friends. As an extra treat, I’ll bring along some adorable quail and their eggs—perfect for those curious about raising smaller poultry.

This event is brought to you by SCARCE, a nonprofit organization that supports teachers, schools, nonprofits, and the planet by accepting a variety of items for reuse and recycling. Donate new and gently used books, supplies, and other household items to reduce waste and give back to students everywhere. For more information, visit SCARCE’s Accepted Items.

Bring your family and friends for a day of inspiration and enjoyment at our Growin’ Green Garden Market. For more details, visit SCARCE’s Growin’ Green Garden Market. See you there!

How to Choose Your Chicks

You’re ready to get chickens! But what kinds? After all, there are so many varieties and colors to choose from. Read further for some tips on selecting the best birds for you. 

Consider the Source

First, find a trusted source for your chicks. Hatcheries and bricks-and-mortar stores are often good choices. Many hatcheries offer mail-order options; local feed stores allow you to come in and choose your own. Ask the stores if the chicks have been vaccinated against Marek’s disease and coccidiosis. A majority of hatcheries will vaccinate the chicks if you request it when your order is placed.

Make sure the birds are sexed (most people want pullets, or young hens, rather than cockerels, or young roosters). Hatcheries and local feed stores generally offer sexed chicks; however, when purchasing from local farms or breeders, exercise some caution—you may get a straight run (50/50 male-female split). Sometimes a savvy seller knows the sex—and you can unwittingly end up with roosters!

Then, consider the characteristics of the breeds. 

Climate Considerations

A major factor to take into consideration is the climate where you live. Some breeds are well suited for both hot and cold climates, while other breeds are suited only for hot or cold temperatures. 

• Cold hardy birds are generally heritage breeds that are also dual purpose. Many were bred in the New England states or other cold climates. A key feature of cold-hardy breeds is their small combs and wattles. Some examples include Buff Orpington, Barred Plymouth Rock, Wyandotte, Buckeye, Rhode Island Red, Ameraucana, Turken Australorp, Buckeye, Maran, and Jersey Giant.
• Heat-tolerant breeds such the Leghorn, Minorca, Andalusian, and Fayoumi were bred in hot climates, mostly Mediterranean areas. They have large combs and wattles, which act as cooling devices. Leghorns are very prolific layers of white eggs. 

Poultry Purpose

Next, consider the purpose of your birds. Are they for eggs, meat, or companionship? 

• Dual-purpose breeds were bred for both meat and eggs. Many are traditional heritage breeds that were developed over time for a specific purpose. The hens generally lay lots of eggs but may stop if they go broody, or want to hatch chicks.
• Hybrid production hens can produce hundreds of eggs over the first two to three years of their life. These birds are not a true breed; they are a cross between two breeds that lay a lot of eggs, such as a Rhode Island Red and a Leghorn. Some hybrids include ISA Brown, Easter Egger, Gold Star, Black Star, Cinnamon Queen, and Amberlink. 
• Ornamental breeds are typically smaller and have more intricate color patterns than other birds. However, they tend to become broody and lay smaller and fewer eggs than other breeds. Ornamentals include Polish, Cochin, Belgian D’Uccle, Silkie, and Sultan.
• Bantams are smaller breeds that tend to be prettier and lay fewer, smaller eggs. They also tend to go broody. Bantams may be considered heritage or ornamental but are not kept for eggs or meat. Examples include the Dutch Bantam, Silkie, Belgian D’Uccle, Serama, Sebright, and Penciled Hamburg. Some breeds have both bantam and large fowl varieties (e.g., Cochin, Rhode Island Red, Brahma, Plymouth Rock). Others exist only as bantams (e.g., Serama, Silkie, Sebright, Dutch Bantams.)
• Meat birds are a hybrid cross between a Cornish and a White Plymouth Rock. Typically harvested at around 6 to 8 weeks of age, they produce about a pound of meat for every two pounds of feed. Because they gain so much weight so quickly, their legs and hearts often fail. 

For more detailed information on chicken breeds, check out Henderson’s Breed Chart.

Good luck with your choices!

Home to Roost Offering New Services

Attention all chicken enthusiasts! Home to Roost is expanding our services to better cater to the needs of your feathered friends.

Health Services

If you’re concerned about internal and external parasites, we offer the following new on-site services: 

Treatment for Common Poultry Pests: We now offer on-site treatment for internal and external parasites, which can wreak havoc on your chickens’ health and comfort.

Sample Collection for Disease Testing: Home to Roost can take samples that can be mailed out for analysis for diseases such as Marek’s and other common poultry illnesses. 

Vacation Assistance

Planning a vacation and need someone to look after your chickens while you’re away? Home to Roost has got you covered. We offered boarding and on-site pet sitting on a limited basis and also can be on-call for your pet sitter during your vacation. 
At Home to Roost, we’re passionate about poultry health and dedicated to providing top-notch care for your feathered companions. Contact us here for more details.

HPAI Still a Concern in US Flocks

Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) continues to pose significant risks to both backyard and commercial poultry operations in the United States. As poultry enthusiasts, it’s important to do everything we can to control it.

Recognizing the Signs

Recognizing the symptoms of HPAI is crucial for early detection and containment. Symptoms can vary but commonly include

• Sudden death without clinical signs
• Loss of appetite
• Purple discoloration of the wattles, comb, or legs
• Swelling of the head, comb, and wattles
• Decreased egg production or abnormal eggs
• Nasal discharge, coughing, and/or sneezing
• Diarrhea
• Lack of coordination

If you notice any of these signs in your flock, it’s essential to act swiftly and seek veterinary assistance.

Preventive Measures

Prevention is key to minimizing the risk of HPAI outbreaks. Here are some recommended measures to protect your flock:

• Biosecurity Practices: Implement strict biosecurity measures to prevent the introduction and spread of disease. This includes controlling access to your property, disinfecting equipment and footwear, and isolating new birds before introducing them to your flock.
• Relationship with an Avian or Poultry Vet: While there is no specific treatment for HPAI available for backyard poultry, a poultry veterinarian can help you determine the best strategy for your flock
• Monitoring and Surveillance: Stay vigilant and monitor your flock regularly for any signs of illness. Report any suspicious symptoms to your veterinarian or local animal health authorities promptly.
• Education and Awareness: Educate yourself and others in your community about HPAI and the importance of biosecurity measures. By raising awareness, we can work together to prevent the spread of this disease.

Resources for Information and Assistance

To learn more about protecting your flock from avian influenza, consider checking out the following resources:

Advice from a Vet: How to Protect Your Flock from Avian Influenza – This insightful post offers practical advice from two poultry veterinarians on safeguarding your poultry against avian influenza.

USDA Avian Influenza Information – The USDA provides comprehensive information on avian influenza, including symptoms, preventive measures, and treatment options.

As poultry enthusiasts and responsible stewards of our flocks, it’s our duty to remain vigilant and proactive in the fight against HPAI. By staying informed, implementing robust biosecurity measures, and working together as a community, we can help protect our poultry populations and ensure the health and well-being of both backyard and commercial flocks. Let’s continue to keep our flocks safe and secure.

Basic Backyard Chicken Keeping at Roselle Public Library

Are you thinking about bringing the charm of chicken companions into your backyard? Or maybe you’re already a seasoned chicken keeper seeking to finesse your flock care? Whether you’re a curious novice or a seasoned pro, join us for an informative class at the Roselle Public Library on May 18, 2024, where we’ll explore the ins and outs of basic backyard chicken keeping.

Date: May 18, 2024

Time: 11 am ––  1 pm

Location: Roselle Public Library, 40 South Park Street Roselle, IL 60172

Led by passionate poultry aficionado Jennifer Murtoff, this session is tailored for those considering embarking on the delightful journey of chicken keeping, as well as those already with feathers in their cap. From navigating local regulations to selecting the perfect birds and nurturing them into happy, healthy hens, we’ve got you covered.

Here’s a sampling of what you’ll learn:

• Local Laws and Regulations: Understand the legalities surrounding backyard chicken keeping in your area. We’ll provide tips on how to find and interpret local ordinances to ensure you’re on the right side of the law.
• Choosing and Raising Chicks: Delve into the exciting world of chick selection, care, and upbringing. Learn how to choose the right breed for your needs and provide essential care to raise them into robust, egg-laying wonders.
• Caring for Adult Birds: From coop design and maintenance to dietary needs and health checks, discover the essential aspects of caring for adult chickens. We’ll discuss best practices for keeping your feathered friends happy and thriving year-round.

This class is free, but registration is suggested. To register for the class and for more information, visit the Roselle Public Library class page here. 

Whether you’re dreaming of fresh eggs on your breakfast table or simply seeking the joys of feathered companionship, join us for Basic Backyard Chicken Keeping! We look forward to seeing you there!

Need help with your new chicks?

Are chicks in your future? Learn the basics of chicken keeping with Home to Roost LLC!

• Selecting breeds
• Creating a supply list
• Setting up a brooder box
• Choosing the right feed
• Sourcing chicks
• Any other questions you might have!

I’ll come to your home for a personalized session: $75/hr (+mileage), one hour minimum

Phone/Zoom consultation: $25 for 20 minutes

Winter chicken care class at the Botanic Garden!

Winter is coming! What should you do to keep your chickens happy, healthy, and warm this winter? Find out at this class at the Chicago Botanic Garden on Saturday, Nov. 11, 2023, from 10 to noon. Sign up by Monday, Nov. 6: https://www.chicagobotanic.org/adult_education/nature_birding/snow_birds_winter_care_chickens

Adorable Gift Idea: Stoof the Chicken!

What’s the perfect, adorable gift for the chicken lover in your life? Stoof the Chicken, of course! An adorable, squishy, cuddle-able handmade chicken that supports a small business owner in Dallas, Texas. Check out Finch Friends on Etsy. https://www.etsy.com/shop/FinchFriends?ref=related&from_page=listing&listing_id=1584835013#items

Baby Princess, one of my boarders, highly approves of Stoof!

Also check out Stoof’s friends: frogs, ghosts, and pumpkins!

Be kind to your veterinarian!

Have you had to wait several weeks to be seen by a vet or call several practices before you found one that had an opening? Did you have a long wait time in the office? Did you feel that cost of care was expensive?

Vets are really struggling these days. Yes, it’s difficult to get a vet appointment. Yes, you may wait a long time. Yes, it’s expensive, too. There are many factors that go into these issues, including a vet shortage, new technologies, and the need to make a living and pay down debts from vet school. Remember that these professionals are trying their best to do the best they can for you and your animal companion. Be kind! And make sure to budget to care for the health of your birds.

This article from the BBC provides more information on some of the issues that veterinarians face.

https://www.bbc.com/worklife/article/20231010-the-acute-suicide-crisis-among-veterinarians-youre-always-going-to-be-failing-somebody: Be kind to your veterinarian!

Register by Friday, 10/6, for chicken keeping and coop building classes!

Don’t lose out! Register by Friday for these chicken-keeping classes at the Chicago Botanic Garden!

Saturday, October 14, 2023:

Basic Backyard Chicken Keeping,10 am – 12 pm. Register here: https://www.chicagobotanic.org/adult_education/nature_birding/basic_chicken_keeping?range_start=2023-10-14

Chicken Coop Basics, 1:30 – 3:30 pm. Register here: https://www.chicagobotanic.org/adult_education/nature_birding/chicken_coop_basics

Saturday, November 11, 2023
Snow Birds – Winter Care for Chickens, 10 am – 12 pm. Register here: https://www.chicagobotanic.org/adult_education/nature_birding/snow_birds_winter_care_chickens

Read more: Register by Friday, 10/6, for chicken keeping and coop building classes! Read more: Register by Friday, 10/6, for chicken keeping and coop building classes!