Tuesday, 25 July 2023

Dalmatian

 

Dalmatian

Content

  • Dalmatian Puppies - Before You Buy…
  • What Do Dalmatian Puppies Cost?
  • 3 Lesser Known Facts About Dalmatians
  • 1. Dalmatians are not born with spots
  • 2. Their spots are spotty
  • 3. They suffer from hereditary deafness
  • Temperament and intelligence of the Dalmatian
  • Are these dogs good for families?
  • Does this breed get along with other pets?
  • Things to know about owning a Dalmatian:
  • Diet and Dietary Requirements
  • Sport
  • training
  • Grooming
  • Health and conditions
  • Male versus female
  • Final thoughts

Height 22 to 24 inches.
Weight 45 to 70 lbs.
life span 11-16 years.
Color  White with black spots or brown spots (liver)
suitable for  Family, active lifestyle, dog owners with some experience.
Mood  Sociable, loving, intelligent, loyal.

Dalmatians have a reputation for being dogs that like to hang out in firehouses or fire engines. No, this is not just a false impression. When they were introduced to Western Europe and England, particularly in the 1700s, they were used as guide dogs. They ran with the carriages to protect them from thieves and other attackers. These vehicles were also used for the fire department. And so began the popular association of Dalmatians with spheres of fire. Dalmatians may not have originally originated in Dalmatia (there are ancient Egyptian depictions of this race).

But regardless of their origins, they still exist today as some intelligent, loyal and downright fun dogs, especially when trained well. However, it necessary some serious dedication from the owner Dalmatian. The demands this child will place on an owner should be seriously considered, especially if the owner has a sedentary lifestyle. These dogs will fill your life with fun and excitement, but if you can't keep up, you'll find yourself in over your head. So, before you jump in, here's what you need to know about our favorite white and black spotted friend.

Dalmatian Puppies - Before You Buy…

What Do Dalmatian Puppies Cost?

You should know that one of these puppies usually runs from $700 to $2,000 from a thoroughbred. Dalmatians are purebreds that generally command a high price. When you're buying this baby, you're not just paying for the beauty you can see, you're also paying for all the testing and vaccinations that have been done to ensure health and fitness. If you plan to buy a Dalmatian puppy from a pet store, you're looking at $400 to $700.

3 Lesser Known Facts About Dalmatians

1. Dalmatians are not born with spots

Both black-spotted and liver-spotted are born without spots. Instead, spots begin to develop at 4 weeks of age. Actually, the spots are present at birth but not visible at first.

2. Their spots are spotty

Just as a snowflake has its own unique texture, Dalmatian spots each one with its own size and shape. They are not evenly scattered across the coat (or inside their mouths!).

3. They suffer from hereditary deafness

As good as their health is in other cases, 18 percent of pulses are affected by at least partial deafness.

Temperament and intelligence of the Dalmatian

Are these dogs good for families?
These dogs are a great choice for families with lots of energy. If a family is prone to lounging like couch potatoes, this is not the dog for them. They do good with children, but play should always be supervised. They are loyal to their owners and play well with the family, especially if trained and well socialized from an early age.

Does this breed get along with other pets?

There is no guarantee that a Dalmatian will experience perfect cooperation with your pet. However, if you train them well and socialize them with the same pets as Dalmatians, there shouldn't be any problems.

Things to know about owning a Dalmatian:

Diet and Dietary Requirements

Dalmatians use a lot of energy, so they need a high protein diet. But they also cannot process purines, which are found in beef and liver. A dog food with little or no purine is best for Dalmatians. Be sure to eat your Dalmatian organic food with no added fillers.

Sport

Dalmatians need plenty of exercise. Remember that they were bred to walk with carts and could easily cover 20 to 30 miles a day. This means that they should not be apartment-dwelling dogs. If you have a large yard, this may work for several of them. However, you will need to take them out more often to the dog park, hiking, or other outings.

Training

It is interesting to note that the demand for Dalmatian puppies increases whenever there is a new release in the series. 101 Dalmatian. . Many people jump at the chance to own one of these babies. But when they lie in bed to pour a cup of coffee and this white-and-black-spotted friend pounces on them, they may realize that their two lifestyles are incompatible.

Dalmatians require a lot of training from a young age. They require obedience training (shake, sit, roll, etc.). They also need to be able to run freely and make their lungs work. Training is not necessary as they are mostly receptive children. The challenge is primarily the time commitment. But don't despair if it's taking too long! Dals are sociable and can be sensitive to their owner's feelings. Be sure to consistently provide positive reinforcement for good behavior during training.

Grooming

There is a joke that is often told among Dalmatian owners about their children's excuses. "They only shed twice a year. The first time is for six months in the spring and summer. The second time is for six months in the winter and fall. They shed a lot. You don't even need to brush them all that much because their coat isn't very long and matted. But you will be picking up a lot of hair, especially if they spend most of their time indoors.

Health and conditions

Puppies are fast and when properly exercised and trained they will live a long life with your family up to 16 years. But they are sometimes not without health problems. Fortunately, most of these conditions are not insurmountable and since many pulses are affected by them, there are a wealth of resources on how to best deal with each condition.

Minor circumstances

  • Cataract - clouding of the eye's lens that can obstruct vision. It is the leading cause of blindness in old Dalmatians. But often cataracts are just a nuisance.
  • Microphthalmia - A congenital condition where a dog is born with abnormally small eyes.
  • Dal Crude (Dalmatian Bronzing Syndrome) – A condition characterized by hair loss, dry and crusty patches of skin, and bronzed skin. It is not entirely known whether this is due to genetics, allergies, environment, stress, dietary changes, or any combination of these.

Serious situations

  • Congenital Deafness - 18 percent of Dalmatians are congenitally deaf in at least one ear. This means they are born with the condition. At six weeks, Dalmatians must undergo the Bear Herring Test, where their brain waves are measured to see if they can hear in both ears.
  • Kidney and Bladder Stones - Since Dalmatians cannot process purine, this becomes difficult. The final step in the processing of purines is the conversion of uric acid to allantoin. As a result, their urine contains high amounts of uric acid which can eventually lead to bladder stones.
  • Hip Dysplasia – This condition is common in dogs, especially large dogs. Although the Dalmatian is not a very large dog, it still has its charms. This skeletal condition is characterized by improper alignment of the ball and socket joints. Instead of proper alignment allowing fluid movement, the joint experiences friction that causes damage and can eventually render the joint unusable.
  • Tr- Different cartilage plates make up the structure of the voice box (larynx). When the nerves in the muscles surrounding the gland become paralyzed, the muscles weaken and the cartilage breaks down, which negatively affects the airways. It usually occurs in older dogs but Dalmatians can develop it very early.

Male versus female

Men are tall and strong. Females will be in heat twice a year. They may also experience false pregnancies and mood swings.

Final thoughts

As much popularity as the breed has seen thanks to the 101 Dalmatians series, it hasn't worked out too well for the breed. The demand for pulses has increased ever since Disney movies hit the theatres. But people focus on the affection and forget that these are highly active dogs that take a time commitment. As a result, many newly adopted Dalmatians are returned to humane society. Puppies purchased from breeders make their first journey into humane society after their owners give up.

But if you feel this dog is right for you and are fully committed to raising it, this firehouse dog can stay in your family home to entertain you for years to come!

Predatory Aggression in Dogs: How to Stop It!

 

Predatory Aggression in Dogs: How to Stop It!

Content

  • Why do some dogs exhibit predatory aggression?
  • High pre-drive.
  • Attention to movement.
  • Predatory aggression. Really aggression?
  • Can you treat predatory aggression?
  • Final thoughts.

Predatory aggression occurs when a dog "hunts" for something. Usually, this involves them chasing a cat or other small pet. Aggressionof this type is not driven by hormones and is instead genetic largely. Dogs chased other animals for food. It is a natural instinct.

Despite being domesticated, many dog ​​breeds are skilled hunters. In fact, many breeders were originally used as hunters. Sometimes, breeds are bred to express a bit of their predatory nature very well. For example, Labradors are great at retrieving their game, while Greyhounds are great at chasing. Even miniature terriers were originally created for hunting and killing small insects.

Some dogs can also be predatory towards other dogs, especially if the other dog is very small.

Unlike other forms of aggression, predatory aggression is not necessary. Aggressive . The dog is not chasing the cat because it does not like the cat. It is natural for them. Chase things.

Why do some dogs exhibit predatory aggression?

Not all dogs chase cats. some In fact get along remarkably well with animals smaller. However, the majority of breeds out there have an important hunting drive. Most dogs with a high hunting drive have been modified through selective breeding, so they often hunt in a certain way.

High pre-drive

High hunting dogs are more likely to chase and kill smaller animals. Dogs of the sporting, herding, hound, and terrier groups all display a marked hunting instinct. However, herding dogs cannot actually kill small animals, although they will chase them.

Terriers, in particular, are very good at catching and killing small animals. Most sporting dogs use their prey in some way, although not all of them are hunting animals. Labradors have a "soft mouth," so they don't actually tend to puncture animals. This is useful when you need a dog to retrieve a bird, but not so useful when the dog is chasing a cat.

Attention to movement

Impulse often leads to aggression. The dog may seem fine until the cat starts running away, and then they start chasing. Moreover, other aggression often triggers predatory aggression. A cat may stare at a dog, causing the dog to react aggressively. Even if the dog starts to defend itself, it often turns into predatory aggression.

Dogs can also chase other things that move, such as bicycles, joggers, cars, and even people. Often, they don't actually hurt things when they get close to them. They may even exhibit "packing" behavior, in which many dogs go after "prey" together. Often, dogs that do not normally show a high prey drive will if other dogs are involved.

A dog may be completely normal before it starts chasing its prey. They may even seem quite happy while doing it. Many people will be wagging their tails. This is because some Enjoy hunting This is how evolution ensured that they would catch and hunt their breakfast. It is a fun activity for them.

Dogs often maul their prey as they rush towards them, cutting off their heels, calves and thighs. The point is to stop the animal from running any further, at which point the dog can kill the animal

Predatory aggression Really aggression?

There is a lot of debate on whether predatory aggression is or not. A truly aggressive dog does not usually experience mood swings. Behavior is not driven by fear or dominance. Instead, the dog is doing exactly what they were bred to do. Many people will be completely satisfied and happy during and after the episode.

For this reason, many people do not classify predatory acts with other forms of aggression. They are not treated equally. However, others argue that predatory aggression harms another animal, which makes it aggressive behavior.

In the end, it doesn't. It really doesn't matter whether you consider it an actual form of aggression or not.

Can you treat predatory aggression?

Not really. Predatory aggression is innate in some breeds. A hunting dog that was bred to hunt will not help itself when a cat runs away. It is just doing what it was created to do and what its ancestors have done for years.

You cannot prevent a dog from expressing its natural instincts. However, you can be aware of these instincts and prevent your dogs from putting them in situations where they might do something destructive. If you have a dog with a high prey drive, you should not adopt a cat. If you already have a cat, don't adopt a dog with a high hunting drive.

Avoid certain situations

You should avoid situations where the dog has access to small animals. For example, they should not be allowed to roam, as they will likely chase a small animal.

Dogs should be supervised whenever outside. You should be prepared to stop the dog while walking on a leash, as they often "forget" they are on a leash and try to chase anything that moves. Do not put your dog in a fenced area if a small animal can get in, such as your neighbor's cat.

You can try reward-based training, using commands like "leave it" to get your dog away from the small animal. However, this is unlikely to completely stop predatory behavior.

Socialization can be helpful in some canines. If they grow up with cats, they may not see them as prey animals. However, this usually only works for dogs with a low prey drive. People who hunt more will often chase anything that moves, even if it's a cat they've known for years.

Final thoughts

Many breeds of dogs have a significant hunting drive that causes them to chase and even kill small animals. Some will even chase bicycles and other large, moving objects. Since this is a natural instinct, it is impossible to untrain dogs. Often, the best option is to restrict the dog's access to animals they may see as potential prey. Some dogs also need to be watched with small children, as they may see them as prey animals when they are active and running around.

Dogs that exhibit hunting instincts are not vicious or aggressive. Instead, they're just doing what they have to do. Many of them will be happy before, during and after the hunting event. As for the dog, things are great!

If you have a dog with a high prey drive, we do not recommend adopting a cat or other small pet. While socialization can sometimes be helpful, it's generally not reliable enough for dogs to live with small animals. You never know when they might become aggressive and harm other pets.

Wednesday, 15 March 2023

How to Care for a Baby Cockatoo

 

How to Care for a Baby Cockatoo

Content

  • The colors of a baby cockatoo
  • How much does it cost to own a cockatoo?
  • Can baby cockatoos live together?
  • What should you feed your baby cockatiel?
  • How often should you feed a baby cockatoo?
  • How to Care for Your Baby Cockatoo
  • What is the best cage setup and size

Cockatoo are also funny, cute and intelligent. Your cockatoo will need constant contact and care with you as its pet parent, especially as a baby.

It is difficult to tell a baby cockatoo apart from similar birds unless your breeder can confirm the species. Cockatoo eggs look like chicken eggs, and her babies look like any other bird here, so it would be easy to fool her. Be sure to buy your baby cockatoo from a reputable breeder so you don't end up buying a parrot that you thought wasn't going to be.

Read on for our guide on how to properly care for your baby cockatoo and a few things you'll want to know when raising these beautiful birds.

The colors of a baby cockatoo

According to the species, baby cockatoos should be the exact same color as their adult counterparts. Cockatoo colors can be black, white, red, gray, silver, pink, yellow, or brown. So, if you see a baby with different colors, that's your first clue that it might not be the same bird.

How much does it cost to own a cockatoo?

Depending on the species of cockatoo you are considering, a baby can cost you anywhere from $150 to $15,000 or more. Be warned, however, that a baby cockatoo has the personality and temperament of a toddler, so if you buy one at the lower end of the price range, it's possible the bird has behavioral problems. In addition, the cost of raising a cockatoo is also quite expensive, as they are high-maintenance birds in terms of money, care and attention.

Can baby cockatoos live together?

It is widely thought that it is best to raise a baby cockatoo alone. If you have more than one baby cockatoo, we recommend keeping them in different rooms and separate cages, which is the safest choice for both you and your birds. Young cockatoos can live together in the same house, but they need to be kept in separate cages and, if possible, in separate rooms.

What should you feed your baby cockatiel?

Your baby cockatoo will be fed through a bottle for the first month of its life. However, in most cases, the baby cockatoo will stay with the breed until the end of the first month of life, so your little one will be able to eat solid food when you bring it home.

It is best to feed your baby cockatoo specially formulated bird pellets to ensure you are meeting his nutritional needs. Make sure to always have fresh water in a bowl when it's convenient.

If you're not sure what to feed your baby cockatoo or it doesn't seem to be taking the food you're giving it, it's best to get a checkup from your vet. Your vet can develop a diet plan that provides your cockatoo with the nutrients it needs to stay healthy and happy throughout adulthood and beyond. For example, as they grow into adulthood, some cacti prefer leaf buds, insects, or palm leaves to other foods.

It's important to note that some cacti can be picky eaters, so you want to be prepared for this from day one. Also, never feed your baby cockatoo chocolate, alcohol, carbonated drinks, coffee or avocado as these can be fatal for your bird.

How often should you feed a baby cockatoo?

As soon as your baby cockatoo can walk and feed itself, you can start feeding it regular food. If you breastfeed your baby, he will need to be fed through a bottle for the first month of life. However, very few cockatoo owners buy a baby cockatiel before buying one themselves.

Of course, you need to keep his food and water bowls full at all times, as he will know when he is hungry and when he needs to eat plenty. As he grows into adulthood, he eats when he's hungry, so free feeding is encouraged. Below are some rules to follow when it comes to feeding baby and adult cockatoos.

Rules to follow

  • Keep track of how much food your bird eats each day.
  • Always keep fresh water in his cage.
  • Provide a wide daily variety.
  • Clean his food and water bowl, as well as the area where he is kept daily.

How to Care for Your Baby Cockatoo

You have to feed your baby daily, take care of him and give him enough attention to keep him healthy and happy.

Too much attention at once in an unfamiliar environment will upset him. Since he is a social creature, however, once he gets used to your family and environment, he will need attention on a daily basis, sometimes more.

A cockatoo is not a bird that you can put in a cage, take care of and occasionally give attention to. If you don't give them proper attention, your bird will become loud and self-destructive. So make sure you have the right toys for your baby cockatoo as it grows young for best results.

What is the best cage setup and size?

The best size is 3 feet highand  2 feet wide, so the cockatoo will have plenty of room to spread its wings.

Cage setup is easy. Once the cage is ready, place it in the center of the room where your family gathers the most. Since your cockatoo is highly social and wants to be with family, this is the perfect place.

This concludes our guide on how to care for a baby cockatoo. The thing to remember before deciding to adopt one of these birds as a pet is that they require a lot of care and attention, so make sure you are prepared to do both.

Tuesday, 14 March 2023

What do corn snakes eat in the wild and as pets?

 

What do corn snakes eat in the wild and as pets?

Content

  • What do corn snakes eat in the wild?
  • How often should a corn snake eat?
  • What Should You Feed Your Pet Corn Snake?
  • What should you feed a baby corn snake?
  • How to choose the right size bait
  • How to Feed a Pet Corn Snake
  • What if your pet corn snake stops eating?
  • Feeding the Corn Snake.

If you want to keep a snake as a pet, the corn snake is a great choice. These snakes can be found in North America and are available for purchase in a variety of colors. Corn snakes are generally easy to control and are usually quite docile.

The fact that they rarely ever bite and are usually quite active and curious makes them great pets for adults and children alike. One thing you need to know before buying a corn snake as a pet is what to feed them. In this guide, we'll go over what these snakes eat in the wild, what you should feed them as pets, and more.

What do corn snakes eat in the wild?

What a corn snake eats in the wild can vary depending on the food available and the season. The common prey corn snakes hunt in the wild are:

  • Mice
  • Sesame
  • mice
  • Other small mammals.
  • Bird eggs.
It is possible for a corn snake to eat other corn snakes on occasion. However, as a corn snake grows larger and stronger in the wild, the type of prey it eats will change. For example, a baby may start eating lizards and small frogs, which are relatively easy to catch and swallow.

As he matures and becomes stronger, his tastes expand to larger and more challenging prey such as bats, mice, rats, birds, and eggs.

How often should a corn snake eat?

Corn snakes wild corn snakes eat prey whenever they can find it. This means they often eat every few days. However, a pet corn snake will depend on you to provide it with timely and adequate food, as it cannot go out and hunt on its own.

What Should You Feed Your Pet Corn Snake?

Domesticated corn snakes will, of course, eat the same creatures that wild corn snakes eat, but they cannot hunt their own prey. Most snake owners don't want to go out and feed small mammals to their snakes, and it's not a good idea anyway because you have no way of knowing what diseases or bacteria these creatures might have. Is.

A good option for pet corn snakes are frozen mice, even frozen mice, as your baby corn snake gets bigger. It is important to remember that corn snakes are carnivores and need protein in their diet to stay healthy, active and growing. These snakes eat protein exclusively, and that's what you should feed them at every meal to keep them growing.

A heavy, shallow dish will work for serving water to your corn snake, but it needs to be fresh at all times.

Some corn snakes will eat lizards, but they can be hard to find as commercial food, and you don't want to feed them to lizards from the wild because of potential parasites.

What should you feed a baby corn snake?

Baby corn snakes can be fed to small rodents until they grow up. Always make sure the mice are dead, as baby corn snakes can be attacked by their prey. You can thaw rats to make them appear alive, but never feed your baby corn snakes live rats. It is never a good idea to microwave your corn snake prey.

How to choose the right size bait

Pink rats are the youngest rats, then fuzzy rats, then adult rats.

Among these three major varieties, you'll find peach fuzz, small and large pink mice, and regular fuzz as well as options. For adult mice, options usually range from small to extra large.

It's important to note that the size of mice will vary depending on where you buy them.

It's also important to remember that large mice can prove very difficult to swallow for your young corn snake, so choose wisely. Measure your snake before you go feeding it, and talk to your rat supplier about what size they would recommend based on your snake's measurements.

How to Feed a Pet Corn Snake

Because baby corn snakes in the wild fend for themselves because their mothers do not teach them to catch food, many snake owners are surprised that their baby corn snakes do not know how to eat the prey they are given.

One reason for this is that in the wild, prey will move this way and that to get away from the snake, which kicks in instincts. Also, since the food isn't deceiving, the snake probably won't realize it's food.

Treat your snake by dangling a rat in front of it and moving it around so it appears alive and kicking. Use tweezers to do this for your own safety, as the snake doesn't know the difference between your fingers and its food.

What if your pet corn snake stops eating?

If your pet corn snake refuses to eat or suddenly stops eating, there are a few reasons experts attribute it to:

  • Fear of relapse, insecurity, and anxiety issues.
  • The atmosphere is not good. It is either too hot and humid or too cold for the snake to be comfortable and want to feed.
  • Your snake is not well. This could be from an illness he is preparing to shed, or an injury he has suffered.
  • The food may not be right. In this case, you can try switching food suppliers.
  • If correcting all of the above doesn't improve your snake's appetite, it's time to make an appointment with your local exotics vet.

There are a few places where you can get the right food for your pet corn snake. First, you need to do your research and find a local supplier that has frozen rats or mice that your snake will eat. Whether it's a pack of frozen mice ordered online or from your local pet store, make sure the food is responsibly sourced.

Feeding the Corn Snake

That concludes our guide to what corn snakes eat in the wild and as pets. If you're considering getting a pet corn snake, you can't be too eager to feed it the protein it needs. Make sure you feed him the right size mouse for his size, and never feed him a mouse if it's still frozen. A corn snake can make a good pet for a long time if handled, fed and cared for properly.

Which wood is best for a chicken coop? (list of professions and disadvantages)

 

What wood is best for a chicken coop? (list of professions and disadvantages)

Content

  • Benefits of building your collaboration
  • Types of wood
  • Softwoods
  • Hardwoods
  • Pressure treated wood
  • Plywood
  • Things to Avoid
  • Result

You have chickens and want to build a coop to protect them from predators and the elements. Now all you need to do is decide what you will use to make your coop. Should you use softwood or hardwood? What about pressure treated wood or plywood? Are you sure you want to build your own or should you buy a pre-made coupe? Read on to learn more about the benefits of building your own wood coop and the best wood to use to build one.

Benefits of building your collaboration

There are many advantages to making your own chicken coop instead of buying pre-made. Building your own chicken coop allows you endless possibilities for customization. You can choose the size, style and material that suits your needs.

You can make your coop as simple or elaborate as you like. It's important to keep in mind that your chickens don't really need anything fancy. As long as they have a warm and safe place to live, they will be happy.

Types of wood

There are four main types of wood that are commonly used to make chicken coops. These include softwood, hardwood, pressure treated wood and plywood. The following describes each type of wood and lists the pros and cons for each.

Softwoods

Description: Softwoods include hemlock, fir, pine, or spruce. Chicken coop builders like to use them because they don't pose a risk of toxicity to your chickens. Softwoods can also be less expensive than hardwoods.

If you choose to go with soft wood to build your chicken coop, you will need to apply non-toxic paint, sealer or stain. You can also apply a non-toxic wood stabilizer to extend the longevity of the wood.

If you don't use something to protect the wood, it will rot. Adding materials to help make it more weather resistant will extend the life of your coop.

It is important to choose your paints and stains carefully. Label them non-toxic to avoid the risk of making your chickens sick. As long as your paint or stain is non-toxic, you can choose any color for your coop.

One downside to using softwood is that it is a more time-consuming process because you need to paint or stain your wood and then apply a sealer. If you choose to use a wood stabilizer, the process will take a little longer because the stabilizer needs to be applied and allowed to sit for several weeks before you paint or stain it.

Occupation
  • A non-toxic option
  • Less expensive
  • Can paint any color
Cons of
  • It takes more time
  • It can still rot if not sealed properly
  • Also see: 6 Best Materials for Chicken Coop Flooring

Hardwoods

Description: Hardwoods include woods such as tropical hardwoods, redwood, and cedar. These woods are usually naturally biodegradable, meaning you won't have to spend extra time protecting the wood from the elements. You also won't have to worry about any toxins harming your chickens.

If you are using tropical wood, you need to make sure it is FSC certified. The FSC, or Forest Stewardship Council, ensures that forests are not over-harvested and that they maintain biodiversity. Seder also comes with some precautions. Most cedar used in construction is not resistant to decay because it is too young to naturally develop this property. You still need to apply sealant to protect it.

Occupation
  • Some are rot resistant
  • Non-toxic
Cons of
  • Expensive
  • Hard to source
  • Treatment may still be required for rot resistance

Pressure treated wood

Description: Pressure treated wood is a soft wood that has been chemically treated to make it water and insect resistant. This treatment continues for several years. The best feature of pressure treated wood for chicken coops is cost. It is generally less expensive than other softwoods or hardwoods.

However, chemicals used to treat wood can be toxic to your chickens. Hens peek at the walls and frame of their coop. Any chemicals in the wood can get on their beaks and make your chickens sick.

It can also cost more to purchase nails and screws for a coop made of pressure-treated wood. One of the materials most often used to treat wood is copper. Copper corrodes faster than other metals so you will need special galvanized screws and nails.

Occupation
  • Less expensive
  • Widely available
Cons of
  • Potentially carrying toxins in the soil around your coop
  • Wood contains harmful toxins
  • High cost of fasteners
  • Related: 5 Best Chicken Coop Heaters and Heat Lamps in 2021

Plywood

Description: There are many different types of plywood, from cheap pressboard to marine grade plywood. The pressed board type should not be used as it will swell and rot. You'll get better results if you use exterior, medium-density, or marine-grade plywood. All of these are stiffer than the pressed board style.

The plywood will also need to be sealed to prevent it from rotting. It is generally recommended that you sand the plywood and then apply at least two coats of sealant or paint to protect it. This may be time consuming, but it will ensure that your coupe will last longer.

Occupation
  • This is an affordable option
  • Widely available
Cons of
  • Cheap versions will rot
  • Sanding, painting and sealing require additional time and work

Things to Avoid

While you can use pine or cedar to build your chicken coop, both pine and cedar shavings can be toxic to chickens. Do not use them as bedding inside your coop. Also, make sure you're only using safe, non-toxic paints and stains on your chicken coop.

Result

Hopefully, you now feel confident enough to choose the best wood for your chicken coop. Softwood is treated with non-toxic sealants and paints if you're willing to put in the time to do it right. The same is the case with plywood. Hardwoods can be expensive but can be more convenient if time is limited. Pressure-treated wood is a cheaper option, but may not be the best for your chickens in the long run due to its toxicity.

Buff Orpington Chicken

 

Buff Orpington Chicken

Content

  • Quick Facts About Buff Orpington Chicken
  • Review by Buff Orpington
  • How much is a Buff Orpington worth?
  • General attitude and temperament.
  • Appearance and types.
  • How to Care for Buff Orpington Chickens
  • Residence and setup
  • Co-op
  • the bed
  • shelter.
  • Do Buff Orpingtons Get Along With Other Pets?
  • What to Feed Your Buff Orpington
  • Keeping Your Buff Orpington Healthy
  • Cradle and lay.
  • Are Buff Orpingtons Right For You?

The Buff Orpington chicken is a popular backyard chicken breed. It is a modern breed, a dual-purpose hen with maximum capacity, which means larger and larger egg production.

Since their creation, buff orpingtons have become a favorite backyard bird for many poultry farmers and urban chickens. There are several versions of the Orpington, but Boff is the center of attention because they are the most famous of the Orpington breed.

In this article, we discuss their history, their benefits, and their care.

Quick Facts About Buff Orpington Chicken

  • Species Name: Gallus Gallus domesticus.
  • Family: Phasianidae
  • Level of care: less
  • Mood: Calm, friendly, sincere.
  • Color Form: Boof
  • Lifetime: ~ 8 years
  • Size: 6 to 10 lbs
  • Food: Greens, grains, insects.
  • Minimum coop size: 10 square feet per hen.
  • Co-op Setup: Wood coop with free range yard.
  • Compatibility: high

Review by Buff Orpington

William Cook first bred the Orpington hen. He was fascinated by their breeding potential and wanted to breed a chicken that would encourage people to keep chickens again, as the 1880s saw a marked decline in the popularity of chicken keeping. Cook's chickens get their name from their place of development - they lived in Orpington in the Kent countryside.

To accomplish his goals, Cook combined large dinner birds with those that were the best layers. Three breeds formed the main lineage of his flock, including Minorca, Langshan, and Plymouth Rock chickens.

Initially, black orpingtons were favored because their plumes hid the dirt and ash that filled old English towns. After their popularity exploded, he also made Buff, Splash, White and Blue colors.

Today, Buff Orpington is the most popular, although they experienced nearly a hundred years of diving between their development until 2016. Since then, they have been reincarnated until they were Queen Elizabeth's favorite breed.

How much is a Buff Orpington worth?

You can buy beef orpington pulp and cockerels throughout the day for about $4.50 to $5 in small orders. It is common to order chickens in bulk to build small flocks. Bulk orders will become progressively less expensive per unit the more of them you order.

General attitude and temperament

One of the reasons why Buff Orpington chickens are so popular is their incredible temperament. They are gentle chickens and are also called "pet chickens" because they are so affectionate with their keepers. Orpingtons are also quiet chickens, attractive to those who live in suburban communities with picky neighbors.

Buff Orpington responds well to attention. They love to be entertained and are easy to handle and are a great option for families with children.

Appearance and types

Although the Black Orpington was originally the most popular version of the chicken, the Buff color was the first to be recognized by the American Breed Livestock Conservancy. After that, they moved on to accept black, white, and finally, blue varieties.

Orpington is a large breed of chicken. They should have a broad, heavy-set body that is low to the ground. Their wings slide across their curved, back.

Buff orpingtons are known for their pale yellow or gold feathers. They are well feathered with pinkish white wings, feet and beaks. Their eyes, earlobes, comb and wattles are red.

How to Care for Buff Orpington Chickens

Buff Orpingtons are hardy chickens. They were raised in a relatively harsh climate, where they often had wet and cold weather. This breeding has made them quite cold tolerant, and they actually prefer to live where they get cold winters and mild summers.

Residence and setup

Co-op

All chickens need a coop that they can sleep in at night and go to for protection, laying or rest. It's best if their coop is far back or to the side where they can put in a little feed and move around for exercise. Because they are large birds, they are not a target for hunters. However, it is still important to put chicken wire around their perimeter.

Some chicken keepers raise orpingtons in chicken tractors because it encourages them to feed on fresh pasture and exercise instead of a high-fat diet.

The bed

There are several common types of bedding, and every chicken grower will have their favorite. It depends on you and your chickens what you get and what keeps them healthy based on their breed tendencies.

You can use sand for bedding as it encourages lower dust levels. Add enough to each hen to create a comfortable place for the hens to lay where they feel safe to lay their eggs.

Shelter

If you have long summers, shelter is essential for these birds. During hot and humid weather, make sure most of their area or small pasture is in the shade. Since they are cooler, they shouldn't be too hot.

If you don't have many trees on your property, consider putting up a canopy or a large tarp over their foraging area.

They should always have access to fresh water to stay hydrated in the heat.

Do Buff Orpingtons Get Along With Other Pets?

Buff orpingtons are passive birds - lovers, not fighters, so to speak. They enjoy being around other animals and like to be part of a large herd where they can make lots of friends. Their problem is not aggression, but the lack of it.

Orpingtons should not be kept in mixed herds with aggressive breeds. Pair them with other chickens that are relatively passive and quiet. Aggressive species such as Rhode Island reds will bully them and inevitably make them less productive and thinner due to stress and a reduced ability to store food.

What to Feed Your Buff Orpington

Buff Orpington is prone to obesity. You have to monitor them carefully as they are quite heavy feeders and will not see their food intake as well as many chicken breeds.

They mostly prefer a single feed that they can pick at throughout the day. Limit it for their continued health. You want them to be high, but not too high, as this can cause early health problems.

These chickens can be allowed free-range forage. If they try, they can find moderate amounts of insects and vegetables.

Keeping Your Buff Orpington Healthy

The greatest progression of these chickens is towards obesity if they are allowed to overeat. Limit their feed intake or put them on fresh pasture to ensure they produce healthy, lean meat with more fat.

Other common health problems for these chickens are bumblefoot, infected crops and leg cramps. Watch for these diseases when you work in and around their area. Check your flock at least once a year to ensure their health and longevity.

Cradle and lay

Buff Orpingtons are easy to breed and have excellent egg layers. Generally, chicken farmers keep roosters with their chickens all year round, unlike other animal species that have to be separated for most of the year.

It is best to keep only one rooster with your chickens as too many can create competition and unusual aggressive behavior. If chickens are raised together, they can stay together.

There are certain times when your hen is ready to mate, and you can watch for sure signs of those times.

Usually, the most important sign is more aggression towards the hens, as the mating process is aggressive. Just make sure your hens aren't bloody later, losing feathers, or stressed, or you have too many hens that need to be replaced.

Once you have introduced a doe to the flock, it will take at least 2 weeks for fertile eggs to appear. Fertilized eggs will have a small red and white spot that looks like a bullseye on the outside of the yolk. You'll have to break them open to check, but you'll know the chicken has been fertilized before.

Are Buff Orpingtons Right For You?

Buff Orpingtons are an excellent choice of chicken for almost anyone interested in keeping chickens. They make great chickens for beginners and pre-made chickens. If you have kids, these chickens are also a winner because they are patient and enjoy being handled.


Marans Chicken: Facts, Info, Behavior, Lifespan & Care Guide

Marans Chicken: Facts, Info, Behavior, Lifespan & Care Guide


Content

  • Quick facts about Maran chickens
  • Marans Chicken Review
  • How much do chickens cost?
  • General attitude and temperament
  • Appearance and types
  • How to care for chickens
  • Accommodation, coop conditions and setup
  • Do chickens get along with other pets?
  • What to Feed Your marans Chicken
  • Keep your dead chicken healthy
  • Breeding
  • Are maran Chickens Right For You?

Maran chickens are in high demand due to their dark colored eggs. Before reaching for one of these rare breeds chicken, however, there are a many things you need to know. For example, you are not guaranteed dark brown eggs, although it is a possibility.

In this guide, we give you all the important information you need to know before buying Maran chickens. Let's get started and learn about these unique feathered friends.

Quick facts about maran chickens

  • Species Name: marans or Poul de Marans
  • Family: Phasianidae
  • Level of care: Start
  • Temperature: Light in most environments, but prefer hard
  • Mood: Calm, friendly and quiet
  • Color Form: Different type
  • Lifetime: 8 years
  • Size: 8 lbs
  • Food: Chicken feed and water
  • Minimum coop size: 4 square feet per adult
  • Co-op Setup: Cooperate with roosting perch and nest boxes
  • Compatibility: Get along with other chickens and animals

Marans Chicken Review

Maran chicken is a famous breed of chicken for producing dirty brown eggs. They are named after a city in France called Maran. Because of its French origins, you don't actually pronounce the "S" at the end of the word "kill" and the "S" is there whether you're referring to one hen or many.

It is not clear what birds were used to breed the Maran chicken. We do know that the Maran was developed in the late 1800s. Many species of birds, including game-type birds, were used. Experts agree that lancets were used and perhaps furrows.

Early breeders were trying to create a hen that would lay dark brown eggs. They weren't particularly interested in appearance, which resulted in a variety of hits. Chickens with feathers on their legs and feet are called French chickens, while chickens without feathers in these areas are English chickens.

Because of the extra feathering on the legs and feet, this breed requires a little more care and maintenance than other chickens. Fortunately, they are relatively friendly, making maintenance a little more pleasant.

Although these hens are best known for their dark brown eggs, not all marans produce the dark chocolate color they are known for. In fact, most blacks don't lay eggs. Instead, the majority of hens lay brown eggs, but not dark brown eggs. Also, the larger hens are, the lighter the eggs are.

How much do chickens cost?

Since Maran is a rare breed, they are more expensive than other chickens. Moreover, their prices vary dramatically based on egg color, egg quality, and breeding heritage.

When you first start buying egg hatchers, they will cost at least $3. Hatchery quality chicks will cost around $5.50 while hens can cost up to $70. If you're looking for a hen that can lay dark brown eggs, you can expect that individual to cost twice as much as other breeds.

General attitude and temperament

Maran is known as a fast growing breed. They are hardy and will thrive in most climates, including cold and hot climates, although they prefer cooler or milder temperatures. They are also resistant to many diseases and are considered really hardy.

Despite their tough nature, they are generally gentle. In fact, neither males nor females are aggressive, which is unique to roosters. They thrive best in a free-range environment because they can be lazy whenever they are in captivity. Although they have the potential to be lazy, they do better in captivity than other chickens.

Hens are really great mothers who are very caring. However, a single hen will produce 150 to 200 eggs per year, which is enough for a broody breed.

Appearance and types

Although Maran were not bred for show, they are considered an attractive breed. They are known for having a stiff feather, which is commonly found on gamebirds. Hard feathers include short, narrow and stiff feathers, without much fluff.

Additionally, marans have single combs of medium to large size. Usually, these combs will stand straight up, but some women have combs that partially flop over.

As we have already mentioned, the French Maroon will have feathers on its legs. It will be feather thin. On the other hand, the English maran has bare legs. Birds need show birds.

Today, there are several types of maran, but most are not recognized by the APA. Among the most popular species of Maran in the States are Black Copper Maran and Quail Maran.

Some other killers include:
  • Berchin (not recognized by APA)
  • black
  • Black copper.
  • Black-tailed Buff (not recognized by APA)
  • Blue (not recognized by APA)
  • Blue Copper (not recognized by APA)
  • Blue Wheat (not accredited by APA)
  • Brown Red (not recognized by APA)
  • Columbine (not accredited by APA)
  • Golden Cuckoo (not recognized by APA)
  • Salmon (not recognized by APA)
  • Silver Coil (not recognized by APA)
  • Wheat
  • white
Because there are so many different types of bats, chicks also come in different colors and patterns. Maran girls are incredibly hard to get with, which means you can get cock when you want it.

How to care for chickens

Marans are considered a hardy bird breed, but they have special needs that you should keep in mind. Most importantly, raptors are large birds. Their coops need to be large enough to accommodate their large build.

Accommodation, coop conditions and setup

Co-op

You must provide a coop for any chicken breed to protect them from the weather and predators. Maroons need a coop that can accommodate their large size. A minimum of 4 square feet of coop space is required for each fully grown hen.

Inside the coop, you need to add roosting patches and nesting boxes. Martens like to hover between 2 feet and 4 feet off the ground. Try to use a pole about 1.5 inches thick for maximum comfort.

Make sure the nesting boxes have bedding and are large enough for the whole hen to lay her eggs.

The bed

All chicken coops need bedding. The bedding will encourage egg laying, dryness and rest. For English varieties, you can choose regular chicken bedding, such as straw, hay, or old newspaper.

For French Fries, you may want to consider using sand to ensure they have a dry and warm environment to avoid frost. If you live in a hot or dry state, you can use hay or other traditional bedding options for French fries. Just make sure the coop stays dry, especially in winter.

Temperature

French martens are considered hardy birds. They can withstand extreme heat and short periods of extreme cold. Still, they prefer mild weather. You don't need to add heating or cooling elements to your coop unless you live in extreme conditions.

Lighting

Lighting affects the ability of laying hens to lay eggs. Make sure the coop has adequate lighting. If it doesn't have access to natural light, consider adding artificial lights, but be sure to take safety precautions to prevent the coop from catching fire.

Outer wall

In addition to a coop, Maran needs an outer wall. Snakes are naturally active and love to forage. Make sure they have plenty of room to roam and forage happily. Fortunately, females rarely fly, meaning you don't have to worry about high fences.

Do chickens get along with other pets?

Maran chickens are considered good-natured and friendly chickens. As a result, they are a suitable breed to combine with other types of chicken. They are most likely to be found with chickens.

If you have English chickens, make sure other chickens aren't picking at their feet. There have been cases of chickens sucking on each other's exposed feet, causing injuries to the infected chicken and other concerns.

If you have other pets, make sure they are safe around the chickens. Snakes are unlikely to be aggressive towards other animal species, but they may be aggressive themselves. If you have dogs or other animals that might see your chickens as prey, keep them safely away.

What to Feed Your Mearns Chicken

Whenever you first find a Mearns Chicken, feed it mash to the farmers. It is easily consumed and has high protein content. After the chickens are about 6 weeks old, you can feed them chickpea mash, which contains about 16% protein. Once your hen is 18 weeks old, she will need more nutrients to produce eggs.

Whenever you want your hens to lay eggs, you can feed them layers of mash or pellets. Make sure the pellets are about 16% protein. You can also add calcium supplements to the feed for added nutrients.

On average, they consume 5 ounces to 7 ounces a day. You can also leave feed and small snacks, such as seeds or worms, outside for them to forage for.

Do not eat dark chocolate or beans. Both of these foods can cause fatal reactions in chickens. Also, don't feed your chicken any food with mold on it. In some countries it is illegal to feed chickens because of their negative reaction to rotting.

In addition to food, rodents need constant access to water. They prefer the water to be cold. Make sure water is served on the back surface to prevent debris from entering the feeder.

Keep your dead chicken healthy

Because Marans are very hardy birds, they are considered relatively easy to care for compared to other species. The biggest influence on their health is their ability to move around. Give your pup plenty of room to explore and explore. This prevents them from getting fat.

Another important aspect of keeping marans healthy is providing them with a safe coop. Make sure the coop is secure and has adequate space for the bird.

Additionally, feed them the right nutrients. Start by feeding them about 5 ounces of food per day. If they are overly hungry, gradually increase their feed intake, but don't feed them more than 7 ounces a day. Also provide them with water 24/7.

As we mentioned above, the French Marin requires a little more maintenance than other chicken breeds. If you have French Bulldogs, you need to clean their feet periodically so they don't get compacted with their own droppings and dirt. Additionally, be on the lookout for spiny-legged bugs and overgrown feathers.

Another thing you need to be careful about with French fries is that they are more prone to frostbite. Make sure their pop is dry and warm to avoid frostbite

Breeding

Most marans are reared for their eggs. Unfortunately, it's hard to tell who the best layer is. The only way to determine the best layer is the trap-nesting method, where the birds are trapped in the nest, allowing the breeder to know which birds are responsible for the eggs.

The best way to determine which hen to breed is to look at the color of the eggs. The darker their eggs, the more likely their offspring will produce darker eggs. This is because the dark eggshell is related to genes, although the exact gene is difficult to isolate.

For more security in obtaining a black egg, choose a hen that has also been hatched from a black egg. This would make both the mother and the father potentially pass on the dark egg gene to their offspring. The darkest marten eggs are laid early in the season.

Are Maran Chickens Right For You?

Maran chicken is a very useful and beautiful breed. Between their delicious meat and frequent egg laying, they are a great addition to just about any farm. Not to mention, they have a great personality that gets along well with other chickens and animals.

One thing to keep in mind about Marans is their large size and possible extra maintenance, in the case of French Marans. If you don't have enough space for these large chickens, choose a smaller breed instead. Also, don't choose a Frenchie if you're not willing to give them the occasional chicken pedicure.

Apart from their need for more space and extra care, maroons are very easy to care for and have numerous farm advantages. Just make them a room and watch their feet. They should be good to go!


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