Backyard chicken guides
Chicken Molting: How Long It Lasts and How to Help
Feathers everywhere and no eggs? Chicken molting explained: why hens molt in fall, how long it lasts, how to care for them and when they'll lay again.
When Do Chickens Start Laying Eggs? Age and Signs
Most pullets start laying at 18 to 22 weeks. What affects the timing, signs a pullet is about to lay, when to switch feeds and what first eggs look like.
Why Did My Chickens Stop Laying? 7 Causes to Check
Fewer eggs this fall? The 7 common reasons hens stop laying (short days, molt, age, stress, feed, hidden nests, illness) and a quick check for each.
Eggs Not Hatching on Day 21? What to Check
Day 21 and no chicks? Check your count, your thermometer and your candling before you give up. How long to wait, and what causes late or failed hatches.
How to Candle Eggs: What to Look for Day by Day
Candle hatching eggs like a pro: what a developing egg looks like on day 7 and day 14, how to spot clear eggs and blood rings, and when to stop.
Incubator Lockdown: What It Is and What to Do
Lockdown is the last 3 days before hatch. When it starts for each bird, how to set up the incubator, the humidity to aim for and why the lid stays shut.