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Turkeys can be a great addition to many backyard farms, but they aren't right for everyone. Before selecting chicks and starting a flock, it is best to understand what turkeys need and how they are different from other poultry.Before You BeginThe first step in raising turkeys is to be sure they are permitted in your area. While suburban and urban backyard farms are becoming more acceptable and widespread, not all areas allow turkeys as livestock. Check city zoning codes or homeowners association regulations to be sure your turkeys will be welcome.It is also important to understand that turkeys are different...

Chickens are becoming more and more widespread in suburban areas, and a backyard flock can be a wonderful part of sustainable living. To keep your chickens healthy, comfortable, and productive in winter, however, it is important to provide them with the proper cold weather care. Can Your Chickens Care for Themselves in Winter? Chickens are well-adapted to survive even very cold winter weather. Their feathers provide excellent insulation, and the birds can fluff their feathers to create an even warmer coat. They may even tuck their bills or feet into fluffy feathers to keep those bare parts warm. On sunny...

Like people, horses prefer a clean and comfortable place to sleep. Therefore, cleaning out your horse's stall is an important step towards his (or her) health and well-being. Here are the four steps  you should take to clean out the stall: 1) Have the right tools A pitchfork, shovel, broom, gloves and wheelbarrow are all required for this job. It's best to keep them stored nearby, so they're always at the ready for future use. 2) Get on in there Once your horse is out of the stall and your wheelbarrow is close by, use your pitchfork to load the...

Wild Birds are well equipped for changing seasons, not only by migrating south but also by getting heavier, warmer plumage, eating a winter-friendly diet, and gathering in groups to share the hard work of finding food and shelter when those resources are scarce. Backyard birders can help their feathered friends get ready for winter, however, with just a few simple steps. Offer Better Autumn Foods: Birds need more fat and calories in autumn. If they migrate, that food is fuel for their journeys, but even if they stay in the same area, the better energy source will help them generate...

It is well known even to non-horse people that horses are herbivores, but just grazing or feeding a horse a diet of hay alone will not provide them the proper nutrition. A limited amount of fat is essential for more energy, and there are many additional benefits of providing fat in your horse's diet. Fat as Energy All horses burn calories as energy, and very active horses with a heavy work schedule, athletic training routines or extensive show schedules need more energy in their diet. Gestating or nursing mares also need more energy to keep up their strength as they...