The most comprehensive book on how to raise and breed your own poultry flock is now fully updated and expanded “The ultimate book for those who want to know everything there is to know about raising poultry.”—Gene Logsdon, author of Letter to a Young Farmer “There’s no better introductory reference on the joy of home-raising chickens.”—Booklist The first edition of The Small-Scale Poultry Flock helped thousands of small-scale farmers and homesteaders successfully adopt a practical and integrative model for working with chickens and other domestic fowl based on natural systems. In this expanded and thoroughly revised edition, readers will find plenty of all-new material. Author Harvey Ussery introduces readers to his new favorite breed of chicken, Icelandics; describes how he manages his breeding flock using a clan mating system; presents detailed information on the use of trapnests and record-keeping spreadsheets for evaluating breeding hen performance; and provides step-by-step instructions for construction of an ingeniously designed mobile poultry shelter. Readers will also find fully updated information and tips on all aspects of flock management, including: Growing (and sourcing) feed on a small scale Cultivating earthworms and grubs as high-protein poultry feed Brooding (and breeding) at home Implementing manure management Using electric net fencing for ranging flocks Using poultry as insect and weed managers in the garden and orchard Enlisting your chickens as garden tillers and compost-makers Protecting the flock from predators Keeping the flock healthy Working with mother hens Ussery presents a sustainable and ecologically friendly model that can be adapted for use at a variety of scales. His advice and examples throughout the book will prove invaluable for beginner homesteaders, growers looking to incorporate poultry into their farm, or experienced flocksters seeking to close their loop.

DIVThe story of the chicken traces the interactions of cultures around the globe. From Southeast Asia 8,000 years ago, chickens spread to ancient China and Japan, the Middle East, Europe during the rise and fall of the Roman Empire, and, from there, the world. Today, chickens fuel our poultry meat and egg industry. They also inspire the time-honored tradition of poultry exhibition and, increasingly, can be found in the backyards of folks who yearn for a simpler time. The Field Guide to Chickens provides a wealth of information on the sixty-one chicken breeds recognized by the American Poultry Association. From utilitarian egg layers to exotic show birds, from tiny bantams to large fowl, Pam Percy enlightens readers on the wonderful world of poultry. Essential for tyro fowl fans as well as longtime chicken breeders, this handy pocket-sized field guide includes a glossary, resources, and chapters describing the chicken’s history, behavior, eggs and chicks, and ""everything but the cluck."" Indispensable and easy-to-use, this guide gives readers an ""egg up"" on the wonderful world of chickens./div

More than 128 birds strut their stuff across the pages of this definitive primer for intrepid poultry farmers and feather fanciers alike. From the Manx Rumpy to the Redcap and the Ancona duck to his Aylesbury cousin, each breed is profiled with a brief history, detailed descriptions of identifying characteristics, and colorful photography. Comprehensive and fun, Storey’s Illustrated Guide to Poultry Breeds celebrates the personalities and charming good looks of North America’s quirkiest barnyard birds and waterfowl.

Whether you want to raise 5 chickens or 50, whether you have a 40-foot city lot or a 40-acre farm, the expert advice in this hands-on guidebook makes it easy for you to get started raising a healthy flock. Whichever comes first for you, the chicken or the egg, this book will show you what to do next with longtime chicken breeder Christine Heinrichs explaining all the helpful DOs and important DON’Ts. This brightly illustrated, full-color guide will prove an indispensable resource for anyone interested in raising their very own flocks. Easy-to-follow advice helps you to: Choose breeds and obtain stock House and feed chickens Manage your flock and keep it healthy Select and cull for breeding programs Incubate eggs and care for chicks Raise chickens in the country, suburbs, or city The book provides information on breed types, obtaining stock, housing, feeding, flock management, breeding programs, incubation and care of chicks, selection and culling, showing, health care, and the legal aspects of raising chickens. Reviewed and approved by Dr. Clint Rusk (Purdue University Associate Professor in the Youth Development and Agriculture Education Department), this book will give you the tools you need to succeed in a challenging but rewarding business.