News

If you raise backyard chickens, you may notice something missing from the nesting boxes once fall arrives: eggs! A hen that reliably produced eggs throughout spring and summer may suddenly begin laying less frequently, or even stop for a period of time. While it can be concerning for newer chicken keepers, a seasonal decline in egg production is often completely normal. Shorter days, molting, colder temperatures, age, nutrition, and other factors can all influence how frequently a hen lays. Understanding these seasonal changes can help you provide the care your flock needs throughout fall and winter. Shorter Days Mean Fewer...

As daylight hours decrease and temperatures begin to cool, chickens naturally begin the molting process. Molting is when chickens shed old feathers and grow new ones. During this time, hens often can see slowing or even stopping of egg production. Providing a high-quality, high-protein chicken feed can help support healthy feather regrowth and overall flock health during molt. Table of contents What is Chicken Molting? Why Do Chickens Stop Laying Eggs During Molt? How Long Does Chicken Molting Last? What Should You Feed Molting Chickens? How Nutrena ® NatureWise ® Feather Fixer ® Supports Molting Chickens? Tips: Caring for Chickens...

Your chickens’ digestive system does much more than process food. Gut health plays an important role in nutrient absorption, immune function, growth, egg production, and overall flock performance. When gut health is functioning normally, chickens are more likely to maintain a healthy appetite, consistent growth, strong egg production, and normal energy levels. When something changes, your flock often gives you clues. Common signs of poor gut health in chickens include: Changes in droppings Reduced appetite Weight loss or poor growth Low energy levels Poor feather condition Changes in egg production Learning to recognize these signs early can help you evaluate...

Cool mornings, changing leaves, and shorter days are all signs that colder weather is on the way. While the first frost may not mean winter has officially arrived, it’s an important reminder for livestock owners to start preparing animals, barns, pastures, and supplies for the months ahead. Cattle, horses, sheep, goats, and other livestock are naturally equipped to handle changing temperatures, but good management can make the transition easier. October is an ideal time to tackle a few important tasks before freezing temperatures become routine. Use this fall livestock care checklist to get started. Evaluate Body Condition Animals may require...

A healthy flock starts with a healthy gut. Whether you’re raising chicks, laying hens, broilers, or a mixed backyard flock, poultry gut health plays a critical role in digestion, nutrient absorption, immune function, egg production, and overall flock wellness. When chickens have a healthy digestive system, they can make better use of the nutrients in their chicken feed, helping them thrive at every life stage. Supporting digestive health doesn’t have to be complicated. Feeding a high-quality poultry feed, providing fresh clean water, and maintaining a healthy environment can help create the foundation for a productive flock. Table of contents What...