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Tips on How to Keep your Chickens healthy

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Raising chickens can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience, providing fresh eggs and meat while also offering an engaging hobby.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced poultry keeper, this guide will help you understand the essential aspects of keeping chickens.

1. Choosing the Right Breed

There are numerous chicken breeds, each with its own characteristics and purposes. Some popular breeds for beginners include:

  • Rhode Island Reds: Known for their hardiness and prolific egg-laying.
  • Leghorns: Excellent layers of large white eggs.
  • Plymouth Rocks: Friendly and good for both eggs and meat.
  • Orpingtons: Gentle and great for both eggs and meat.

2. Housing Your Chickens

A well-designed chicken coop is crucial for the health and safety of your flock. Consider the following when setting up your coop:

  • Space: Ensure at least 3-4 square feet per bird inside the coop and 8-10 square feet per bird in the outdoor run.
  • Ventilation: Good airflow is essential to prevent respiratory issues.
  • Protection: Secure the coop against predators like foxes, raccoons, and hawks. Use sturdy wire mesh for windows and runs.
  • Nesting Boxes: Provide one nesting box for every 3-4 hens, lined with clean straw or shavings.
  • Perches: Chickens like to roost off the ground. Install perches at different heights.

3. Feeding and Watering

Proper nutrition is vital for healthy chickens. Here’s what you need to know:

  • Feed: Use a balanced commercial feed appropriate for your chickens’ age and purpose (layers, broilers, etc.). Supplement with kitchen scraps and grains for variety.
  • Grit: Chickens need grit (small stones) to help digest their food.
  • Water: Always provide fresh, clean water. Use a waterer that prevents contamination.

4. Health and Hygiene

Maintaining good health and hygiene practices will keep your chickens happy and productive:

  • Cleanliness: Regularly clean the coop, changing bedding and removing droppings to prevent disease.
  • Checkups: Monitor your chickens for signs of illness, such as lethargy, changes in eating habits, or abnormal droppings.
  • Vaccinations: Follow recommended vaccination schedules to prevent common diseases like Marek’s disease and Newcastle disease.
  • Parasite Control: Check for lice, mites, and worms. Use appropriate treatments if needed.

5. Egg Collection and Storage

Properly managing egg collection and storage ensures you get the best quality eggs:

  • Frequency: Collect eggs daily to prevent them from becoming dirty or broken.
  • Storage: Store eggs in a cool, dry place. For longer shelf life, refrigerate them.

6. Seasonal Care

Different seasons require specific care adjustments:

  • Winter: Ensure the coop is draft-free but ventilated. Provide extra bedding for warmth and check water sources to prevent freezing.
  • Summer: Provide shade and plenty of fresh water to keep chickens cool. Avoid overcrowding to reduce heat stress.

7. Social and Behavioral Needs

Chickens are social animals and need mental and physical stimulation:

  • Flock Dynamics: Introduce new chickens gradually to avoid aggression.
  • Enrichment: Provide perches, dust baths, and areas for foraging to keep chickens entertained.
  • Observation: Spend time observing your chickens to understand their behaviors and notice any changes that might indicate health issues.

8. Legal Considerations

Before starting your chicken-keeping journey, be aware of local regulations:

  • Zoning Laws: Check if you are allowed to keep chickens in your area and if there are any restrictions on flock size.
  • Permits: Some places require permits for keeping chickens.
  • Noise Ordinances: Roosters can be noisy; ensure they are permitted if you plan to keep any.

Conclusion

Keeping chickens can be a delightful and fulfilling experience with the right knowledge and preparation. By choosing the appropriate breed, providing proper housing, feeding, and healthcare, and adhering to local regulations, you can enjoy the benefits of fresh eggs and the companionship of these fascinating birds. Happy chicken keeping!

Last Updated on July 9, 2024 by News Time

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Man loses N33m meant for studies to sports betting, seeks financial help

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Dismas Mutai, a Kenyan from Eldoret, devastated after losing KSh 2.8 million (N33 million) meant for his studies abroad to online betting on Aviator.

Mutai, who secured a scholarship for a Master’s program at Anglia Ruskin University in London, admitted that the loss has greatly affected his mental well-being.

Mutai took to social media, pleading for help from well-wishers, including politicians, while acknowledging his gambling addiction and apologizing to his family and community. Despite the setback, he remains hopeful for a second chance to pursue his dreams.

“I’m not okay; I will no longer pretend to be okay. I have fallen into a disastrous trap, one I never anticipated in my life. Depression is slowly taking me to the grave.

“You must have noticed an unusual change in my behaviour. Aviator took away over KSh 2.8 million of people’s money,”

“To my mum and the entire family, forgive me. I understand the trust you had in me. I have weaknesses like any other human being, and this has become my greatest weakness.

 

Last Updated on April 3, 2025 by News Time

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Oyedepo Warns Nigerian Youths: ‘Don’t Tempt God’ with Travel Abroad

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David Olaniyi Oyedepo, the presiding bishop of the Living Faith Church, has highlighted the significance of divine guidance for the youth of Nigeria.

He advised them to refrain from making impulsive decisions to leave the country without first seeking God’s direction. Oyedepo stressed the necessity of depending on divine leadership to attain success and prominence, warning against the risks of testing God through personal ambitions.

This communication was presented during the impartation service at the church’s Annual Youths Alive Convention (AYAC2024) on Saturday, August 17, as reported by Vanguard.

The distinguished religious leader emphasized the difficulties of navigating a chaotic era, urging young individuals to seek moments of solitude to genuinely discern God’s voice.

“Do not hastily make decisions and seek God’s approval. Avoid testing God. Instead, inquire about His plan, for His plan is inherently blessed.

“It is essential to cultivate a spirit of quietness and humility to perceive God’s communication. One must be attuned to the spirit to recognize its voice, and one must possess spiritual awareness to fully embrace that voice.”

Last Updated on August 22, 2024 by News Time

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Dr. Abel Damina Denies Jealousy, Calls Pastor Jerry Eze’s Miracles ‘Fake

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Dr. Abel Damina, a prominent clergyman, has stated that he does not feel any jealousy towards Pastor Jerry Eze. He questioned the accuracy of the statement, “What God cannot do does not exist,” asserting that it is false.

This revelation was made during a recent episode of the Honest Bunch podcast, which included hosts Nedu Wazobia, Husband Material, and others.

He remarked, “The phrase ‘What God Cannot Do Doesn’t Exist’ is not the truth… Some may believe I am envious of Jerry Eze, but he is significantly my junior in the ministry.

Additionally, he expressed skepticism regarding many of the miracles currently being showcased, while still affirming his belief in the existence of genuine miracles.

I believe in miracles, I believe in healings, but not all these staged miracles we are witnessing today,” stated Abel Damina.

The podcast co-host, Nedu, posed the question: “Are you suggesting that the miracles are fabricated?”

Damina replied: “Is it not evident that the majority of those crutches are identical in color and all appear to be brand new? In what scenario would individuals attend a crusade and possess the same type and color of crutches?”

Responses have ensued:

@ugo_shib commented: “People assume I harbor jealousy towards Jerry Eze. I assert that it is you who are envious of him.”

@E_Mbuyazi stated: “That statement holds true for the God of Christianity and for any other faith I am aware of. Everything that exists—both good and bad—is attributed to ‘God’s’ influence.”

@sire_sommy remarked: “Regardless of the veracity of Dr. Abel Damina’s statements, I have one inquiry: when did ministers of God begin accepting invitations to podcasts?”

Last Updated on August 22, 2024 by News Time

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