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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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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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Pastor Kumuyi Explains Allowing Muslims to Speak at His Conference

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Pastor William Kumuyi, the distinguished General Superintendent of Deeper Christian Life Ministry, has extended an invitation to Muslim clerics to participate in his groundbreaking Change Makers International conference.

This initiative, aimed at addressing the pressing social and spiritual challenges facing Nigeria, has attracted significant attention for its unique strategy of bringing together individuals from different faiths to confront the country’s most critical issues.

The event, which is characterized by its non-denominational, non-tribal, and non-religious nature, has previously hosted transformative gatherings that included a wide array of pastors and Muslim clerics at the Yakubu Gowon Stadium in Elekahia, Port Harcourt.

Pastor William Kumuyi has boldly expressed his rationale for including Muslim clerics in this pioneering Change Makers International (CMI) conference, reflecting a commitment to unity and collaboration in tackling Nigeria’s urgent concerns.

The initiative, characterized by its non-denominational, non-tribal, and non-religious nature, is currently garnering attention with its inaugural event at the Yakubu Gowon Stadium in Elekahia, Port Harcourt. This event has brought together a diverse group of pastors and Muslim clerics for a series of transformative discussions.

During a powerful sermon at this landmark conference, Pastor Kumuyi passionately articulated his groundbreaking decision to invite Muslim clerics to address his congregation, a choice that has sparked significant debate and interest.

In a recent video, Pastor Kumuyi emphasized the critical importance for Christians to view adherents of other faiths as genuine neighbors, promoting a relationship that goes beyond mere tolerance to cultivate authentic and meaningful connections.

To exemplify his viewpoint, Pastor Kumuyi highlighted the profound significance of allowing Muslim clerics to speak from his pulpit. This decision, which defied traditional church norms, was a bold testament to his commitment to inclusivity.

He further elaborated on his decision to allow the clerics to don their traditional caps while on the pulpit, noting that the conference took place in a stadium rather than within a church setting.

Pastor Kumuyi concluded by stating that had the Muslim clerics invited him to wear their traditional caps, he would have readily accepted, clearly demonstrating his sincere regard for them as neighbors.

Last Updated on August 22, 2024 by News Time

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