Discover the forgotten practice of caponization—what it is, its history, and whether people still neuter roosters today. A must-read for poultry keepers.
Waterfowl
The Return of the Black East Indies Duck: A Heritage Breed Finds Its Way Home
Discover the history, charm, and conservation value of the Black East Indies duck, a heritage bantam breed now reintroduced at our farm. From green-black plumage to soft gray eggs, learn why this rare duck is worth preserving.
Books and Educational Materials, Pasture Raised
The Right Time to Process: Understanding Poultry Growth and Meat Potential
Learn the key differences between broilers, fryers, and heritage chickens—and when they should be processed for the best meat yield. A must-read for new farmers and homesteaders raising poultry for food.
Books and Educational Materials, Chickens
How to Tell If Your Chicken Has Marek’s Disease
New to chicken keeping and worried your bird might have Marek’s disease? This beginner-friendly guide breaks down what Marek’s is, how to recognize the signs (like leg paralysis and cloudy eyes), and how to protect your flock through vaccination and...
Livestock, Pasture Raised, Pigs, Sustainable Agriculture
Not Just a Pig: The Enduring Legacy of the Gloucestershire Old Spot
The Gloucestershire Old Spot is more than a spotted pig—it’s a living legacy of sustainable farming, prized for its docile nature, rich pork, and exceptional mothering. Once nearly lost to industrial agriculture, this rare heritage breed is making a comeback...
Books and Educational Materials, Chickens
Fowl Pox Season: Understanding and Managing a Common Poultry Virus
As rainy weather brings a surge in mosquito activity, many backyard flocks face a common seasonal challenge: fowl pox. This article explains how to identify, manage, and naturally support birds through the virus using tools like vitamin C and oregano,...
Homesteading
Why Trading a Rooster for a Hen or Pullet Isn’t a Fair Exchange
Every spring, rooster rehoming posts flood social media—often with the hopeful offer to “trade for a hen or pullet.” But while well-intentioned, this isn’t a fair or realistic exchange. In this article, we break down the real-world value of hens,...
Books and Educational Materials, Sustainable Agriculture
Why Do Breeders Retain Stock?
Retaining animals isn’t about being selfish—it’s about protecting the future of the breed. Ethical breeders make thoughtful decisions to keep certain animals in their program to ensure genetic progress, preserve rare lines, and support long-term goals. Here’s why responsible retention...
Books and Educational Materials, Goats
Understanding Rumen Acidosis in Goats: Causes, Pathophysiology, and Prevention
Rumen acidosis is a serious digestive disorder in goats caused by excessive fermentation of carbohydrates, leading to a dangerous drop in rumen pH. This article explores the causes, clinical signs, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of both acute and subacute acidosis...
Books and Educational Materials, Sustainable Agriculture
The True Meaning of Value in Animal Breeding and Farming
What makes one animal worth more than another? In farming and breeding, the answer isn’t always obvious. This article dives into the true meaning of value—beyond price tags—and explores why ethically raised, purposefully bred animals often cost more. It’s not...
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