Post by: GGV8Cruza on April 19, 2015, 07:17:14 PM
I searched these guys out the other day and for the cost of it I cannot see me buying the timber and making it for any less. Its movable as well and should do just fine. Any tips or hints for the next mass egg producer from 4-5 chooks
https://www.backyardchickencoops.com.au/chook-pens/the-taj-mahal/ (https://www.backyardchickencoops.com.au/chook-pens/the-taj-mahal/)
GG
Post by: D4D on April 19, 2015, 07:21:08 PM
Post by: dales133 on April 19, 2015, 07:34:57 PM
I had 3 when I was a kid and dragged them home and did the "can I keep them pleeeeeease thing.
Very low maintenance and live mostly on scraps and a bit of chook feed.
Just make sure they have a place to keep thier feet dry if conditions are wet and as stupid as it sounds you'll probably have to teach them how to sit on a peach.
Another tip is if you've got a bank put a veggie garden at the bottom of the bank and the chicken coup at the top if you arnt free ranging them.
The amount of manure that makes it is diluted and you'll get self seeded pumpkins and the like on the bank
Good luck the kids will love them
Post by: LuckyDog on April 19, 2015, 07:35:56 PM
:cup: :cup: :cup:
LD
Post by: tk421 on April 19, 2015, 08:14:16 PM
Our pen is 2.5x5m. 6 uprights and a roof, all covered in mesh. We put a $200 ebay hen house inside that and a sun shelter made from left over colourbond fencing. Every so often we let them out, but they cause havoc with the garden beds????
If you have an orchard, let them roam in that. Citrus loves the chook poo. Some natives not so much.
Make sure you include shell grit as well as food and water, don't feed them potato skins, other than that they're pretty easy.
I know one guy who has his chook house in the middle of his veggie patch. Veggie patch is divided into 4 areas. Chook pen has 4 doors, one onto each area. The chooks roam in one whilst he farms the other 3. Then every year he rotates clockwise. Gets great veggies.
Post by: dazzler on April 19, 2015, 08:51:44 PM
I know one guy who has his chook house in the middle of his veggie patch. Veggie patch is divided into 4 areas. Chook pen has 4 doors, one onto each area. The chooks roam in one whilst he farms the other 3. Then every year he rotates clockwise. Gets great veggies.
Cool
Post by: Malcolm Tugless on April 19, 2015, 09:23:30 PM
Post by: oldmate on April 19, 2015, 09:28:23 PM
Never owned one ... but I've been feeding the chooks for years.
Lol. Been married awhile hey.
Post by: lindamc on April 19, 2015, 09:53:14 PM
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Post by: Alan Loy on April 20, 2015, 06:35:53 AM
This is the advanced model http://www.geofflawton.com/fe/64322-chicken-tractor-on-steroids (http://www.geofflawton.com/fe/64322-chicken-tractor-on-steroids)
Post by: muzza01 on April 20, 2015, 06:46:53 AM
We too have a big block, acre. I prefer something more permanent in structure. It's coming up to about 5 years old now. We normally have 12 chooks, 11 ATM. I built this chook pen to my own plan. It wasn't particulary cheep as my mrs wanted it to be snake proof and I wanted something that should stand up to cyclonic winds
From memory it is 6 meters by 3.5 meters, I completey covered in 6mm2 gal snake mesh before screwing and of the Coro on. The mesh also goes down in der the ground about 250mm and concreted all around the perimeter.
(http://i895.photobucket.com/albums/ac155/muzza01/Chook%20Shed/DSCN0304.jpg)
(http://i895.photobucket.com/albums/ac155/muzza01/Chook%20Shed/DSCN0371.jpg)
Post by: macca on April 20, 2015, 07:11:19 AM
Post by: speewa158 on April 20, 2015, 07:15:55 AM
Post by: muzza01 on April 20, 2015, 07:22:30 AM
We have to be careful of Hawks and Eagles up here. We get the occasional falcon but they seem to take birds airborn and not in the ground.
Post by: graham on April 20, 2015, 04:49:22 PM
This lady in Carrum downs has great quality chooks , she also has one rescued from hatcherys that seem alright , I was going to get some to see if they were any good , but her other Isa brown chooks have been brilliant , friendly , bloody funny if you watch them
Crystal. 0427 624 665
I may even be going there tomorrow to grab a few more as our are about 4-5 years old now
Ask Rich he has had a pair running around
Cheers mate
Post by: jimc1 on April 21, 2015, 02:19:54 PM
my advice for a coop, maker it comfortable for you to get in and out of, as your going to be the one who inherits the feeding, watering and cleaning. My kids occasionally help with the egg collecting.
I built mine for about $300. Most of it was miscut lengths and offcuts from Bunnings and Robot Trading. Most expensive part was the wire fabric.
Do yourself a favour and get some quality waterers and feeders. I got mine from Royal Rooster. Its made cleaning and refill task a 7 - 10 day thing, depending on the heat.
Post by: dales133 on April 21, 2015, 07:02:05 PM
They have feathers sticking out all over the place like they got the fright of thier life
Post by: tones_swag on April 21, 2015, 08:14:54 PM
Because I had a smallish yard, I too raised my coop which allows a bit more space for the chooks to roam around. Had them for 6 or so months and have been pretty happy to have them. Kids love collecting the eggs and most days we get 3 eggs. With 3 boys, they make great snacks. We initially collected heaps of egg cartons thinking we would be giving a lot of eggs away, but that hasn't been the case.
Only issue I have with the free range is I got a bit tired of the chook poo all over the place and they kick leaves up and out from under the hedges, making my freshly cut lawn looking scrappy within the hour. So I have left them in the coop for longer periods, the only downside being they need more food.
I enjoyed building my coop. Took a few weekends and even with a fair bit of recycled material, I still spent probably $500 odd before the chooks, feeders, food etc.
I do enjoy watching the chooks. Definite pecking order and they get relaxed around you pretty fast.
Good luck and enjoy.
Post by: Dingo0163 on April 22, 2015, 02:13:30 PM
Post by: tk421 on April 22, 2015, 02:32:35 PM
I had to notice this post today , didn't i. I was in town getting the car serviced and the missus rang me. She found five of her old girls in the paddock with their heads chewed off. Lucky they were the " house chooks " as she breeds others and pays up to $60 for one chook. The wire has boon chewed on one yard , the other four yards are fine. Guess who will be sitting outside tonight with the shot gun and spotlight. >:(
Sad news. My dad lost his 2 polish and 3 silky bantams in one night to a fox. Made a proper mess of the coop. He didn't have the heart to start again.
Post by: Dingo0163 on April 22, 2015, 02:46:08 PM
Post by: Green rv on April 22, 2015, 03:06:40 PM
down sides are the rodents they bring in (not a big problem.)
only good layers for about 2-3 years i think the ones i had were rhoad island reds (mate i give them to said they tasted good)
other than that the kids loved them and the eggs were great
after looking at your link the taj mahal looks awesome, maybe even enough to start again
thanks for the inspiration
:cheers:
Ads
Post by: graham on April 26, 2015, 07:19:13 PM
Cheers
Post by: GGV8Cruza on April 26, 2015, 07:50:29 PM
GG
Post by: Zilch on April 27, 2015, 07:32:57 PM
surrounded by canefields etc. they attract snakes due to the influx of rodents who are after the
feed/hay/straw etc, He has lost a few to eastern browns/Taipans, kicked their mortal coil after being bit..
he has some footage of an Eastern Brown Bar steward taking out a rat about 5 metres from pen :) so depending on
where you live you may want to consider if they would attract any real nasties.. especially if you are rural
Post by: Mik01 on April 27, 2015, 08:06:04 PM
I had to notice this post today , didn't i. I was in town getting the car serviced and the missus rang me. She found five of her old girls in the paddock with their heads chewed off. Lucky they were the " house chooks " as she breeds others and pays up to $60 for one chook. The wire has boon chewed on one yard , the other four yards are fine. Guess who will be sitting outside tonight with the shot gun and spotlight. >:(
Shame. We have lost about 5 chooks and 3 full grown Peking Ducks to a fox also. Now they are all locked up every night and the pen has reinforced wire into the ground to prevent digging under.
Local council will lay traps, but I have a border collie pup who I would have to chain up night and day to prevent her getting caught. And I'm not ready for that yet.
Your council might trap them for free?
Post by: GGV8Cruza on April 27, 2015, 08:19:50 PM
Ordered the Taj today and even went with the auto door unit.
GG
Post by: Green rv on April 28, 2015, 02:22:55 PM
i have the ok to get one too will have to wait a few weeks for funds though
thanks GG for the hard work of finding a good unit
:cheers:
Ads
Post by: graham on April 28, 2015, 06:31:44 PM
Hopefully someone may know the answer to this question , a mate and I have brought Isa Browns from the same place , but at different times , my eggs 70grams plus , his would only be 50 or less , is it the feed , or am I talented , even when I didn't have chooks I brought big eggs so these look like normal eggs to me , but he is right his eggs are around two thirds the size , same sized birds too
Let the chookens dine on a bit of grass /greenery every so often , improves the yolk or the colour of the yolk I've been led to believe , let them out late arvo ,and as the sun disappears they will head home , mine do ,saves you looking like a idiot trying to herd cats into a pool , let nature take it course
Be careful of the kids though , mine seem to think the chooks like the same TV shows they do , yep on the couch with the kids watching telly , wonder why I'm bald
They are entertaing though
Post by: tk421 on April 28, 2015, 06:44:48 PM
http://www.pamperyourpoultry.com/diapers (http://www.pamperyourpoultry.com/diapers)
Post by: Dingo0163 on April 28, 2015, 07:28:45 PM
Home grown eggs , poached on a bit of toast,on the weekend, pretty good
Hopefully someone may know the answer to this question , a mate and I have brought Isa Browns from the same place , but at different times , my eggs 70grams plus , his would only be 50 or less , is it the feed , or am I talented , even when I didn't have chooks I brought big eggs so these look like normal eggs to me , but he is right his eggs are around two thirds the size , same sized birds too
Let the chookens dine on a bit of grass /greenery every so often , improves the yolk or the colour of the yolk I've been led to believe , let them out late arvo ,and as the sun disappears they will head home , mine do ,saves you looking like a idiot trying to herd cats into a pool , let nature take it course
Be careful of the kids though , mine seem to think the chooks like the same TV shows they do , yep on the couch with the kids watching telly , wonder why I'm bald
They are entertaing though
It is true that greens will make the yolks richer. If your mates chooks are pullets ( first year layers ) and yours are second year , your eggs will be larger. The down side is the older the chooks are the more egg production drops. :D
Post by: tk421 on April 28, 2015, 10:05:12 PM
We had some tradies here for a week or two (city born and bred), blew their minds when I gave them an egg one of the ladies had just laid as it was still at body temperature. They we even happier when we cooked up some same day eggs for them. LOL
Post by: GGV8Cruza on April 30, 2015, 07:03:51 PM
GG
Post by: graham on May 02, 2015, 04:35:44 PM
Chooks on your lounge? You need some of these. Chook nappies
http://www.pamperyourpoultry.com/diapers (http://www.pamperyourpoultry.com/diapers)
Well there you go , my life is complete I don't what is sadder ,someone has made these,or that they think there is a market for them at $17.00 a pop inc delivery
Post by: muzza01 on May 02, 2015, 04:44:34 PM
Taj turned up today, 4 boxes plat packed and a drum full of starter pack goodies and the remote timer door. Will try and get it together on the weekend. Pics to followHow is it all going? Pics?
GG
Post by: muzza01 on May 02, 2015, 04:48:31 PM
Post by: smartyingreen on May 02, 2015, 06:47:50 PM
We aquired to more chickens on Tuesday. Don't know where they came from but two chickens waiting outside my back fence wanting to come in. None of the neighbours have chooks. So we now have 13.
Dinner! Well at least two nights.
Post by: GGV8Cruza on May 09, 2015, 09:19:10 PM
Today went down and set ot the chook run, 6 x 12m square. Put in some treated pine fence posts and corner units and need nowm6to get it all wired up ready for the new tenants.
Will put up some pics soon
GG
Post by: GGV8Cruza on June 25, 2015, 08:21:31 PM
http://craigsfarm.com.au/ (http://craigsfarm.com.au/)
GG
Post by: Black Diamond on June 25, 2015, 08:46:54 PM
Post by: #jonesy on June 26, 2015, 05:31:37 PM
Also noticed that availability of chickens at the moment in Melbourne is a bit scarce. The kids want at least one Silkie.
Post by: kizza1 on June 26, 2015, 08:42:30 PM
Post by: #jonesy on June 26, 2015, 10:30:42 PM
The problem with getting chickens from kinder is the need to keep them warm who h is easy enough but a lot of effort for a few chooks.
I am still about a month off being ready so the new breeding season hopefully will be on time.
Post by: GGV8Cruza on June 27, 2015, 05:10:10 PM
GG
Post by: kizza1 on June 27, 2015, 07:49:14 PM
Post by: GGV8Cruza on June 27, 2015, 09:52:12 PM
for some reason i read that as four chooks roasting. ;D
Not quite yet, I will give them a chance to lay
GG
Post by: speewa158 on June 28, 2015, 08:21:55 AM
Well there you go , my life is complete I don't what is sadder ,someone has made these,or that they think there is a market for them at $17.00 a pop inc delivery
You mean to tell us the " Chooks " don't have Foxtel in the coup ,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,& have to share with the kids ,,,,,,,,,,,, lm going to put you in to PETA, RSPCA & anybody that will listen to me . All they can do now is snuggle down in their electric blankets ,, they do have that at least ??? ??? ??? :cheers:
Post by: graham on June 28, 2015, 02:52:58 PM
If they start laying I may think about one out in their alfresco area
Bugger it ,if they ask for foxtel I will install it ,but only if they ask
Post by: GGV8Cruza on June 29, 2015, 07:11:45 AM
(http://i1249.photobucket.com/albums/hh502/GGPatrol/Mobile%20Uploads/20150628_143128_zpscpcebxde.jpg) (http://s1249.photobucket.com/user/GGPatrol/media/Mobile%20Uploads/20150628_143128_zpscpcebxde.jpg.html)
GG
Post by: Black Diamond on June 29, 2015, 08:21:13 AM
A quick shot of the Taj and runHehe nice one. Declan's smile says he aprroves the new dwelling ;D
(http://i1249.photobucket.com/albums/hh502/GGPatrol/Mobile%20Uploads/20150628_143128_zpscpcebxde.jpg) (http://s1249.photobucket.com/user/GGPatrol/media/Mobile%20Uploads/20150628_143128_zpscpcebxde.jpg.html)
GG
Post by: Fizzie on June 30, 2015, 01:18:58 PM
No, no, you've got it wrong.
The compound is supposed to be for the chooks, not the kids :D
Besides, that fence is nothing like high enough - kid's will be able to climb out to easy :D
Post by: dales133 on June 30, 2015, 02:23:25 PM
There's a guy at vic market close to the dunnys by the back car park that has chooks and ducks too
Post by: graham on July 02, 2015, 06:06:07 PM
Thought there may of been a few chicken dinners happening soon, but they seem to be producing again
Post by: GGV8Cruza on July 02, 2015, 07:12:31 PM
GG
Post by: muzza01 on July 03, 2015, 05:11:39 AM
No eggs big fella. Ours are only 14 weeks old. So should be a month or so. Will be clipping wings this weekend and letting them into the bigger runJust clip one wing GG. If you clip both they can still get airborne. One wing makes them unbalanced straight away and they stop flapping. In time they all settle down and don't want to leave :D. We havnt needed to clip ours for a couple of years.
GG
Post by: GGV8Cruza on July 03, 2015, 06:38:17 AM
Just clip one wing GG. If you clip both they can still get airborne. One wing makes them unbalanced straight away and they stop flapping. In time they all settle down and don't want to leave :D. We havnt needed to clip ours for a couple of years.
Cheers Muzza, that was the plan although some of the sites out there still talk about both
GG
Post by: graham on July 14, 2015, 06:50:44 PM
A water bowl is a constant washing out item ,
But you are in luck and I wish I had of been smarter and grabbed a couple on the weekend , to five to you .But I do have I my possession, drinking things for chooks
I brought a few thinking that their use by date would be limited ,nope I was wrong
I run mine of a plastic jerry 20ltrs ,then thru a bit of hose to the drinky bit ,works a treat
If you would like one ,send us a pm mate
Cheers
Post by: GGV8Cruza on July 15, 2015, 06:41:54 AM
GG how do you plan on the water supply for the egg bearing monkeys
A water bowl is a constant washing out item ,
But you are in luck and I wish I had of been smarter and grabbed a couple on the weekend , to five to you .But I do have I my possession, drinking things for chooks
I brought a few thinking that their use by date would be limited ,nope I was wrong
I run mine of a plastic jerry 20ltrs ,then thru a bit of hose to the drinky bit ,works a treat
If you would like one ,send us a pm mate
Cheers
Thanks mate, PM sent
GG
Post by: muzza01 on July 15, 2015, 02:37:15 PM
GG how do you plan on the water supply for the egg bearing monkeysAny pics?
A water bowl is a constant washing out item ,
But you are in luck and I wish I had of been smarter and grabbed a couple on the weekend , to five to you .But I do have I my possession, drinking things for chooks
I brought a few thinking that their use by date would be limited ,nope I was wrong
I run mine of a plastic jerry 20ltrs ,then thru a bit of hose to the drinky bit ,works a treat
If you would like one ,send us a pm mate
Cheers
Post by: tk421 on July 15, 2015, 03:28:18 PM
http://citychicks.com.au/products/704/ (http://citychicks.com.au/products/704/)
You can get the drink nipples as standalones. Wouldn't be too hard to make your own drinker
http://citychicks.com.au/products/585/ (http://citychicks.com.au/products/585/)
Post by: #jonesy on July 15, 2015, 05:54:49 PM
http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/181780775465?_trksid=p2055119.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/181780775465?_trksid=p2055119.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT)
My build has slowed down a bit with the crap weather
Post by: muzza01 on July 16, 2015, 06:08:51 AM
I got these off ebay
http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/181780775465?_trksid=p2055119.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/181780775465?_trksid=p2055119.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT)
My build has slowed down a bit with the crap weather
Thanks for that. Just bought some.
Post by: tk421 on July 16, 2015, 09:03:56 AM
No eggs big fella. Ours are only 14 weeks old. So should be a month or so. Will be clipping wings this weekend and letting them into the bigger run
GG
What breeds did you get? I've never bothered with the bigger breeds like ISA/Australorp. I find them just too big and heavy to go high or far and I feel it gives them a bit of a chance against the local cats. (Though unshelled nuts from our macadamia tree fired from a catapault have driven most of those off now)
Bantams on the other hand...
Post by: GGV8Cruza on July 16, 2015, 11:21:39 AM
What breeds did you get?
Bantams on the other hand...
Isa brown cross with some other breeds that make good layers.
GG
Post by: tk421 on July 16, 2015, 12:30:31 PM
Isa brown cross with some other breeds that make good layers.
GG
Nice. Our ISA's pumped out almost an egg a day each. (about 200-300/year per bird) for about 3 years then they went on strike. With 4 chooks that was a lot of eggs. We've now got 2 pure Australorps that we've had since 1 week old and there's no way the kids will let us put them in the stock pot even though they're hardly producing now :)
Post by: #jonesy on July 16, 2015, 10:01:57 PM
Post by: GGV8Cruza on July 17, 2015, 07:05:13 AM
What is everyone's "retirement " plans for their hens
One of ours is called Colonel ;D
GG
Post by: GGV8Cruza on July 22, 2015, 09:02:48 AM
GG how do you plan on the water supply for the egg bearing monkeys
A water bowl is a constant washing out item ,
But you are in luck and I wish I had of been smarter and grabbed a couple on the weekend , to five to you .But I do have I my possession, drinking things for chooks
I brought a few thinking that their use by date would be limited ,nope I was wrong
I run mine of a plastic jerry 20ltrs ,then thru a bit of hose to the drinky bit ,works a treat
If you would like one ,send us a pm mate
Cheers
Big thanks to Graham, package turned up in the post yesterday. Just need to sort out some tubing and the water will be on mass for them
GG
Post by: #jonesy on July 22, 2015, 09:24:26 PM
Post by: GGV8Cruza on July 23, 2015, 06:46:22 AM
Are these the drink things you have graham
That's what he has, I got one off him :cheers:
GG
Post by: GGV8Cruza on July 23, 2015, 06:49:40 AM
All chooks though are accounted for and tucked up in their Taj. Fencing at night is a pain, not too sure if they had had an adventure outside their run but at least they were all safe and sound
Now start laying some eggs ;D
GG
Post by: muzza01 on July 23, 2015, 06:27:59 PM
My water drink nipples haven't turned up yet but I have a plan on how I will make a couple of waterers out of PVC also.
These feeders are quite simple. Length 600mm of 100mm stormwater, 100mm end cap, 150mm end cap for the bowl and a cheap handle on top.
(http://i895.photobucket.com/albums/ac155/muzza01/Mobile%20Uploads/image_zpsxznim0kd.jpg)
(http://i895.photobucket.com/albums/ac155/muzza01/Mobile%20Uploads/image_zpsdudyk4jl.jpg)
(http://i895.photobucket.com/albums/ac155/muzza01/Mobile%20Uploads/image_zps1zjtuu5p.jpg)
(http://i895.photobucket.com/albums/ac155/muzza01/Mobile%20Uploads/image_zpsjnv4nszr.jpg)
Post by: jayjay on August 04, 2015, 08:03:44 PM
We are in process of organising our version of chook TajMahal -er- backpackers hostel -;D, where we have fenced and netted a corner of our yard, and will be roofing a part of it with used laserlite, and installing some nesting boxes and a perch. My question is this- what do people suggest I use on the ground?? As chooks have a tendency to scratch - and scratch- I can envisage it will be in time, eroded to be a dust bowl or mudpie- dependent on weather. Don't want to free-range them into my vege patch or have them tear up the rest of the lawn.
Post by: #jonesy on August 04, 2015, 09:17:17 PM
Not far off now. Just need a roof and mesh and gates and s few more trimmings.
Post by: muzza01 on August 04, 2015, 11:50:40 PM
Nice set -up!
We are in process of organising our version of chook TajMahal -er- backpackers hostel -;D, where we have fenced and netted a corner of our yard, and will be roofing a part of it with used laserlite, and installing some nesting boxes and a perch. My question is this- what do people suggest I use on the ground?? As chooks have a tendency to scratch - and scratch- I can envisage it will be in time, eroded to be a dust bowl or mudpie- dependent on weather. Don't want to free-range them into my vege patch or have them tear up the rest of the lawn.
I used to put down fine mulch in the floor area. This worked Ok in our dry season but was smelly and unhygienic in the wet season. It might work ok in Melbourne.
For the last few years we put sand in the bottom. It's easy to clean when they Shit everywhere as you just hose it down and the crap disappears. Excellent in the FNQ wet season as it doesn't turn in to a quagmire with the sand.
Post by: heath74 on August 22, 2015, 08:04:55 PM
While I had a few building materials in stock, in the end I went with one of these,
http://www.ezysales.com.au/p/large-chicken-coop-rabbit-hutch-ferret-cage-hen-ch/CH009_H (http://www.ezysales.com.au/p/large-chicken-coop-rabbit-hutch-ferret-cage-hen-ch/CH009_H)
It came together nice and square, not sure about the life span though. The girls are in and sleeping, one on the ground and one in the roost, I'll put up some pics tomorrow
Post by: GGV8Cruza on August 22, 2015, 08:39:51 PM
GG
Post by: tk421 on August 23, 2015, 09:37:40 AM
Post by: Troopy_03 on August 23, 2015, 01:18:18 PM
Post by: GGV8Cruza on September 02, 2015, 04:40:38 PM
GG
Post by: jmorgan1981 on September 03, 2015, 08:45:25 AM
The water and feed stations that have been built look great :cup:. I was just wondering about how long can you leave the chooks when you go away?
I get the eggs need to be collected regularly, but could they last a week or so with the food and water setup you guys have used.
With no family within 1000km we could get the neighbors to grab the eggs but I would feel bad asking them to clean out the coop etc.
Post by: tk421 on September 03, 2015, 09:21:18 AM
I have been watching this thread and we are thinking of going down the chicken as pets line. Most likely 2.
The water and feed stations that have been built look great :cup:. I was just wondering about how long can you leave the chooks when you go away?
I get the eggs need to be collected regularly, but could they last a week or so with the food and water setup you guys have used.
With no family within 1000km we could get the neighbors to grab the eggs but I would feel bad asking them to clean out the coop etc.
Food and water are your biggest issue. If you're getting neighbours to check eggs it's not much more effort to check water and feed. We use a large cone style commercial feeder that holds 15kg of food. We can do two weeks without worrying. But our neighbours just top up as needed. Feed lives in a big bin with lid by the coop door when we are away.
I wouldn't worry about cleaning the coop for 2-3 weeks but ours have a 4mx6m run
Post by: Troopy_03 on September 04, 2015, 08:18:32 AM
Post by: jmorgan1981 on September 04, 2015, 08:50:54 AM
Food and water are your biggest issue. If you're getting neighbours to check eggs it's not much more effort to check water and feed. We use a large cone style commercial feeder that holds 15kg of food. We can do two weeks without worrying. But our neighbours just top up as needed. Feed lives in a big bin with lid by the coop door when we are away.
I wouldn't worry about cleaning the coop for 2-3 weeks but ours have a 4mx6m run
Same with us. Although our waterers and food container could easily last a week, we always get a neighbour to check them at least a couple of times during that week, just in case. Neighbours are usually pretty happy getting free eggs too for their effort. We also tell them to help themselves to any veggies from the garden that are in season as well.
Thanks guys will look onto it more
Post by: dales133 on September 04, 2015, 09:24:34 AM
Post by: muzza01 on September 07, 2015, 06:11:17 PM
I mounted them with 100mm standout brackets and used a bit of rubber anti-slip as these hold about 10 liters each so when full of water these things weigh about 11 kgs.
The chickens are using the nipples OK, sometimes the nipples leak a little bit after a chicken has been drinking but the leak rate is very very minor. We check the water every few days and the 11 chickens drink about 1-2 litres out of each container over that period. Temps here are around 20-30 degrees ATM.
(http://i895.photobucket.com/albums/ac155/muzza01/image.jpg1_zpsnur8jhhb.jpg)
(http://i895.photobucket.com/albums/ac155/muzza01/image.jpg2_zpsnozdcwip.jpg)
Post by: GGV8Cruza on September 07, 2015, 06:13:32 PM
Still only have one layer at the moment out of the four, getting one egg a day
GG
Post by: scarpsD40 on September 07, 2015, 06:15:55 PM
Still only have one layer at the moment out of the four, getting one egg a dayPut a large screen tv in their roost with episodes of the batchelor. That'll get them laying. Or so I'm told;D
GG
Post by: muzza01 on September 07, 2015, 06:23:40 PM
Put a large screen tv in their roost with episodes of the batchelor. That'll get them laying. Or so I'm told;DI have a large screen tele in my bedroom, hasnt helped me too much in the laying.
Post by: GGV8Cruza on September 07, 2015, 06:24:19 PM
I have a large screen tele in my bedroom, hasnt helped me too much in the laying.
Might have to change channels >:D or hens ;D
GG
Post by: scarpsD40 on September 07, 2015, 06:26:37 PM
Might have to change channels >:D or hens ;Dyep, there's a new forum thread right there, what tv shows makes your hens lay? Anything but politics.......
GG
Post by: Bad Scott on September 07, 2015, 07:11:59 PM
My chickens got a little stressed on Saturday, we had the Auspit going over the open fire in the paddock adjacent their run with 4 chooks going round and round.Maybe 3 of em are red roosters
Still only have one layer at the moment out of the four, getting one egg a day
GG
Post by: GGV8Cruza on October 09, 2015, 06:28:05 PM
GG
Post by: D4D on October 09, 2015, 06:47:11 PM
Post by: GGV8Cruza on October 09, 2015, 07:22:27 PM
Now all you need is some pigs and the next Farkaway meet will have fresh breakfast :)
There is a story to go with it and it will come in the trip report when I get some time to put it all together
GG
Post by: scarpsD40 on October 09, 2015, 08:12:44 PM
Post by: Troopy_03 on October 11, 2015, 06:11:18 PM
Chickens are go. 4 eggs per day so they are all underway. Kids are happy and the cake rations have gone up so we can use them upGet yourself a duck. I just checked her pen for eggs today, and because I have been a bit busy and haven't checked since last weekend there were 10 duck eggs in the nesting box. She's been pulling double shifts on at least a few days. Must be all the grubs she's been eating form the garden beds I just pulled out and rebuilt.
GG
Post by: tk421 on October 12, 2015, 08:48:12 AM
Post by: #jonesy on November 08, 2015, 03:11:52 PM
In with 6 new chickens today.
Turned out my niece and her husband breeds chickens!!
Post by: GGV8Cruza on February 27, 2016, 04:51:14 PM
Upgraded the feeder as we were feeding all the local birds to a security version which they need to step on to feed which has worked great- http://www.chooktred.com.au/Chooktred/Welcome.html (http://www.chooktred.com.au/Chooktred/Welcome.html)
Hope all other chooks are still laying
GG
Post by: #jonesy on February 27, 2016, 05:27:33 PM
Post by: 2010banditsa on February 27, 2016, 08:50:43 PM
Post by: GGV8Cruza on June 01, 2016, 10:33:59 AM
The chooks used to put themselves to bed every night but of late they have been roosting outside in the open, when its going to rain I put them away and luckily the local fox's have not visited. Still getting a great number of eggs and the friends and neighbours are happy with a few now and then
GG
Post by: #jonesy on June 02, 2016, 09:30:01 PM
The Silkies keep going clucky every month or so. So it goes in solitary for a few days. A 1 x 1.5m cage with only a perch and nowhere to next. 2 days and they are cured. Seems a bit cruel but gets the quickest result which is better for their health. I did try all the other methods.
One of the Isa Browns learnt how to peck a small hole in the eggs and suck out the contents. She didn't eat the shell and left only a small hole. We were losing one or two a day. Tried golf balls as a decoy and a sloping next box so the eggs rolled out of each. Once I figured out who it was I suggested a roast dinner but the kids wouldn't let me. So a few weeks in solitary didn't work. A last chance effort was to file a bit of the beak to get rid of the sharp point. Luckily this worked.
Post by: Troopy_03 on June 02, 2016, 09:39:04 PM
Post by: Woore on June 02, 2016, 09:45:20 PM
http://greendean.com.au/the-kfc-project/ (http://greendean.com.au/the-kfc-project/)
Post by: scrapsD40 on June 02, 2016, 09:45:29 PM
my 10 chooks and one duck have been on strike for about 6 weeks... Actually I think a couple are past it anyway, but I'm not allowed to lop off their heads. Might just leave the axe leaning up against the chook pen for a couple of days though >:DShoot one, then watch how quickly the rest start laying.
Post by: jayjay on June 03, 2016, 04:48:52 AM
my 10 chooks and one duck have been on strike for about 6 weeks... Actually I think a couple are past it anyway, but I'm not allowed to lop off their heads. Might just leave the axe leaning up against the chook pen for a couple of days though >:D
Menopausal/ geriatric chooks are a problem- especially in the suburbs. Don't know about anyone else, but I am not particularly interested in feeding geriatric chooks that don't provide a return on investment for the feed I pay for! Just out of interest, how do others in the suburbs, dispose/despatch of chooks that have past their use-by date?
Post by: scrapsD40 on June 03, 2016, 06:32:11 AM
Menopausal/ geriatric chooks are a problem- especially in the suburbs. Don't know about anyone else, but I am not particularly interested in feeding geriatric chooks that don't provide a return on investment for the feed I pay for! Just out of interest, how do others in the suburbs, dispose/despatch of chooks that have past their use-by date?Send them to Wed arvo bingo! I've seen amazing results.
Post by: Troopy_03 on June 03, 2016, 08:58:47 AM
Send them to Wed arvo bingo! I've seen amazing results.Haha, when I was a kid, my old man used to do that. He'd get us to knock off their heads, pluck and clean them, then he'd take them to the pub on a saturday morning and raffle them off. But he never went to the same pub again, too soon after a raffle. ;D
Post by: tk421 on June 03, 2016, 12:43:10 PM
Menopausal/ geriatric chooks are a problem- especially in the suburbs. Don't know about anyone else, but I am not particularly interested in feeding geriatric chooks that don't provide a return on investment for the feed I pay for! Just out of interest, how do others in the suburbs, dispose/despatch of chooks that have past their use-by date?
Natural death or my kids would never let me forget.. I let ours out to free range, so they perform pest control. Keeps the slugs and snails down, and fertilise the garden, so I see that as return on investment.
Post by: Fox67 on June 03, 2016, 08:57:38 PM
Post by: tk421 on June 03, 2016, 09:35:08 PM
We haven't had an egg from our 5 chooks for two weeks now, very frustrating. They are about 18 months old and seem to be going through a heavy malt stage, feathers grow back fairly quickly though.
No eggs whilst they're molting is normal. Just feed them decent food. All their energy is going into making new feathers
Post by: #jonesy on June 04, 2016, 07:28:22 AM
The middle egg is the supermarket size.
Post by: GGV8Cruza on December 02, 2016, 07:18:32 PM
All others are doing well and have dealt with the trauma well. So did the kids
GG
Post by: SambOz on December 03, 2016, 08:11:21 AM
Reasons - they drop off laying (numbers of eggs) after first season and by third are getting egg bound etc etc.
You feed as much feed($) to a poor layer as a good one, might as well feed a good layer.
Bantams will go clucky every five minutes, we didn't keep them unless a breeding program was on the cards and had a rooster.
Best eggs ever ;D
edit..meant to add, if your chooks are laying all around the place it will be because the nesting boxs aren't suitable, IME they like darker well enclosed protected nesting boxs.
Post by: Paddler Ed on December 03, 2016, 12:27:54 PM
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/13699987_1202914606417756_202253484562620264_n.jpg?oh=a2aea66a233e51eee1e355967f61504e&oe=58B44C57)
Some of his families birds:
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/10336764_833982023296656_6748482539938669639_n.jpg?oh=70c6c8d07db6db0786ccffd20ca6365b&oe=58F8A3FC)
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/10254999_833979433296915_3140095354376871664_n.jpg?oh=7dfa6b3e7da0ded770d972068ae76d56&oe=58F4111F)
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/549518_482927135068815_2084069447_n.jpg?oh=21c6e7fee3f892e07a991b88f2b29c6f&oe=58BA0028)
Post by: tracker on December 03, 2016, 01:36:23 PM
Post by: SambOz on December 03, 2016, 03:39:24 PM
Post by: GGV8Cruza on December 15, 2016, 05:58:31 AM
Now dont need anyone to look after the chickens while we are away over christmas. Buggers didnt go away the other night and we lost all 4 in one night. For 18 months we have had no problems, looks like a new fox family has moved into our area. Might be time to get the 22 down from up home
Next job when we get home is to build a new pen fully enclosed and stock with a new flock.
GG
Post by: D4D on December 15, 2016, 06:17:52 AM
Post by: britts on December 15, 2016, 08:00:11 AM
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Post by: GGV8Cruza on February 04, 2017, 06:02:03 PM
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170204/d4076fe47d64c362d672ab4a756e4693.jpg)
We must of got a good one because after 3 hours of being in its new home we get our first egg.
GG
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Post by: GGV8Cruza on April 06, 2017, 06:17:35 PM
We now have one Isa Brown and a couple of marems
One of the marems is huge. Might have to grab a couple more Isas to equal out the pecking order
GG
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Post by: Bad Scott on April 06, 2017, 06:25:41 PM
Not having a good run with our chooks.Did you call any kanTong, KFC, Sunday, Red, etc ;D
GG
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Post by: GGV8Cruza on April 06, 2017, 06:36:51 PM
Colonel
Kebab
Chip
Maybe thats the problem, next one i might call Gertrude😀
GG
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Post by: Troopy_03 on April 06, 2017, 08:29:52 PM
Not having a good run with our chooks. The only one that was laying decided to have a long rest and it was a really friendly chook.
We now have one Isa Brown and a couple of marems
One of the marems is huge. Might have to grab a couple more Isas to equal out the pecking order
GG
Sent from my SM-G920I using Tapatalk
Is that the one on the right at the back? It looks very roosterish... ;D
Actually, we have a hen that looks more like a rooster than a hen. It has a larger comb, prominent tail feathers, and spurs on it's legs, but it lays eggs and doesn't crow... weird looking thing..
Post by: ScarpsD40 on April 06, 2017, 08:59:52 PM
"What a coincidence," GG said, "This is a special day for me, I'm celebrating."
"This is a special day for me, too, and I'm also celebrating!," says the woman.
"What a coincidence," says GG. As they clinked glasses GG asked, "What are you celebrating?"
The lady says "My husband and I have been trying to have a child, and today my gynaecologist told me I'm pregnant!"
"What a coincidence," says the GG. "I'm a chicken farmer. For years all my hens were infertile, but today they're finally laying fertilized eggs."
"That's great!" says the woman, "How did your chickens become fertile?"
"I switched cocks," GG replied.
She smiled and said, "What a coincidence!":)
Post by: GGV8Cruza on May 23, 2017, 08:03:47 AM
GG(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170522/005554f5af437c3f7bfc23506b2ac715.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170522/6d206621a29ae1eedae17904de42729c.jpg)
Sent from my SM-G920I using Tapatalk
Post by: Cruiser 105Tvan on May 23, 2017, 10:01:50 AM
Post by: GGV8Cruza on May 23, 2017, 10:33:01 AM
You did put in mesh under the walls?
Sure did, trenched down in front of walls and mesh extends down. Any small off cuts thrown in bottom of trench and then backfilled. Should do the trick
GG
Post by: Cruiser 105Tvan on May 23, 2017, 10:56:20 AM
Foxes don't mind digging.
Some even put a mesh floor in below dirt level for that very reason.
Post by: DannyG on May 23, 2017, 12:10:33 PM
Post by: Troopy_03 on May 23, 2017, 03:56:55 PM
New chook house to take the local foxes out of play
GG(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170522/005554f5af437c3f7bfc23506b2ac715.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170522/6d206621a29ae1eedae17904de42729c.jpg)
Sent from my SM-G920I using Tapatalk
Awesome job there mate, did you use an architect to design it? :cup:
There's going to be a bit of a shake-up in our chook pen, of 8 chooks and a duck. The youngest would be at least 5 years old, and none are laying any more...
Post by: muzza01 on May 23, 2017, 08:04:14 PM
Post by: Cruiser 105Tvan on May 23, 2017, 08:14:10 PM
But then Roast Chicken is still yummo.
Post by: GeoffA on May 23, 2017, 08:16:54 PM
New chook house to take the local foxes out of play
GG(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170522/005554f5af437c3f7bfc23506b2ac715.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170522/6d206621a29ae1eedae17904de42729c.jpg)
Love it GG... :cup: :cup:
If a job is worth doing, it's worth over-doing..... ;D ;D
Post by: GGV8Cruza on June 09, 2017, 07:26:21 PM
Still might do a few more additions and extras to the chook shed.
GG
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Post by: Fathom on June 10, 2017, 05:54:04 AM
We had two hatch.. can't keep two.
Hand raised. Friendly.
He's a bit bigger since that pic got some nice green in his tail feathers.
He's about 6 months old now.
Free to anyone that doesn't want to cook him.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170609/3c156744ba2fb668bbb8079f241fa947.jpg)
Post by: GeoffA on June 10, 2017, 06:25:57 AM
...
Still might do a few more additions and extras to the chook shed.
...
Where will it end?...It's already 5 star... :cup:
Post by: DannyG on June 10, 2017, 07:47:01 AM
Love it GG... :cup: :cup:
If a job is worth doing, it's worth over-doing..... ;D ;D
If GG ever gets rid of his hens he can use the framework of the chook shed to lift truck engines or hold up a second story on a house ;D
Post by: GGV8Cruza on August 04, 2017, 06:59:04 PM
If GG ever gets rid of his hens he can use the framework of the chook shed to lift truck engines or hold up a second story on a house ;D
Now there's a thought, maybe a second storey lookout for the chooks.
We have some action on the lay at the moment. Two are now laying daily which leaves 6 to get in on the act. No fox action at all but there was one flat pancake one on the road out the front a week or so ago.
GG
Post by: Bird on August 24, 2017, 10:27:44 AM
(https://scontent.fsyd3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/19060170_1356122001131954_4891476373097270619_n.jpg?oh=d5ced43e7d0bbf23610cbb5813200318&oe=5A2DF338)
Post by: PWE on August 25, 2017, 11:55:29 AM
https://www.bunnings.com.au/whites-1800-x-900mm-framed-panel_p3321125 (https://www.bunnings.com.au/whites-1800-x-900mm-framed-panel_p3321125)
Cost bract me if interested
Post by: GGV8Cruza on August 27, 2017, 08:14:12 AM
GG(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170826/4c121657e8b12405bc4f1ab5b9bb2ca9.jpg)
Sent from my SM-G950F using Tapatalk
Post by: GeoffA on August 27, 2017, 08:16:17 AM
Chickens are on the lay. Getting 6 a day at the moment. Anyone want some eggs
....
Yes please!! Can you post, or are they pick-up only?
Post by: Pete79 on October 01, 2017, 11:18:16 AM
There was a decent sized stump to be removed at the back corner and a bit of cut and fill required, so I did majority of the digging and lifting.
But the retired accountant from a city of 30 million people did a mighty fine job with the rest of it.
He really enjoyed this little project and deserves to be proud of the results.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171001/f15c3859fbfad184a4f363f91a8f486b.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171001/eb684825a25a782dc596ae7298db87d2.jpg)
We picked up the chicks yesterday, we got a bit of a mix.
3 Isa Browns and 3 different Heritage breeds.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171001/0b28ee6e76dad347669fba889a360aa6.jpg)
This one's going to be a nice looking bird....
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171001/1bc61da6945bda4efe35e486464d7384.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171001/56cef6a65eda30a799e009f042304afe.jpg)
Post by: Pete79 on October 01, 2017, 11:20:50 AM
Post by: Pete79 on October 01, 2017, 11:24:44 AM
Post by: Pete79 on October 01, 2017, 11:33:07 AM
Post by: Fizzie on October 01, 2017, 02:04:06 PM
Post by: Pete79 on October 01, 2017, 05:29:50 PM
It was saying something went wrong, so I tried resizing the images. Still got errors.
Apparently they all went through... ;D
Post by: #jonesy on November 12, 2017, 11:48:16 AM
What's left of the original flock
Isa brown
2 silkies
Buff Orpington
Added in
Pit game
New Hampshire Red
Araucana. (Lays blue coloured eggs)
Put a mix of breeds and cross breed under the Buff Orphington when she went clucky. 3 so far have hatched.
I like having a mixture as each has their own personality even if they aren't the most productive
Post by: #jonesy on September 14, 2018, 10:37:06 PM
We have picked up some more along the way and now have the Buff Orphington sitting on a dozen mixed eggs.
Post by: GGV8Cruza on September 15, 2018, 06:48:39 AM
Bloody foxes though, we had one up at the house the other week in the middle of the day walking around the verandah of the house thinking it owned the place.
Post by: #jonesy on September 15, 2018, 08:31:45 AM
Post by: Pete79 on September 24, 2018, 08:42:48 AM
Up until now we've had no predators (apart for the magpie that defends her little patch of garden) and our chickens are fully free range, we haven't closed the door on the pen in months.
After seeing the fox about half a km from home this morning the chooks are going to have to get used to being locked up at night again.
Post by: outbackogre on September 24, 2018, 10:48:48 AM
Post by: Bunyip on September 24, 2018, 12:33:12 PM
We will be getting chooks in the not too distant future.
Post by: Troopy_03 on September 24, 2018, 12:43:21 PM
Just saw this post about foxes and thought I'd add my experience. We do not have chickens, but a healthy looking fox was in our backyard this morning about 9.30. I tried to take a photo but it was spooked and ran off. This is in leafy Surrey Hills (about 10km east of Melb CBD). I wonder what it was looking for? Perhaps the cat's breakfast leftovers (must be desperate). ???
Apparently he isn't on his own eitrher. Check out google for foxes in Melbourne. I remember seeing a docco a few years ago about them too.
Post by: Cruiser 105Tvan on September 24, 2018, 05:31:58 PM
You can spot Foxes all the way along right into the Gardens at Government House.
They're resourceful critters, and will eat all sorts of stuff.
Especially Food scraps unsuitable for human consumption.
Post by: #jonesy on September 25, 2018, 05:14:50 AM
Supposedly they have also now been introduced into tassie
Post by: GBC on September 25, 2018, 06:35:35 AM
There is a huge hare population at the airport so the foxes are pretty happy.
Post by: austastar on September 25, 2018, 11:11:52 AM
ISupposedly they have also now been introduced into tassie
Hi,
There have been some reports, but not much substantial evidence. One carcase found, but it's stomach contents suggested it was a planted body. Someone's idea of a joke.
Some millions of $ spent on a fox detection / eradication program with nothing to show for the expense.
Cheers
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Post by: DannyG on September 25, 2018, 11:28:09 AM
We are lucky that we don't have foxes in Tassie.
We will be getting chooks in the not too distant future.
No we have quolls though
Post by: austastar on September 25, 2018, 11:39:17 AM
A friend with chooks at Weegena solved his quoll problems with a light outside the chook pen overnight.
Cheers
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Post by: WilSurf on September 25, 2018, 02:18:21 PM
The shire tells us that the coop needs to be a minimum of 1 meter from any boundary and 9 meters from the house.
Doesn't seems to work at our place.
Post by: Troopy_03 on September 25, 2018, 07:04:51 PM
We were thinking about having chickens, but the location is an issue.
The shire tells us that the coop needs to be a minimum of 1 meter from any boundary and 9 meters from the house.
Doesn't seems to work at our place.
That's probably any dwelling too. So if your neighbour has a house close to any area that satisfies the requirements for your premises, it'll fail because his house is too close.
Post by: WilSurf on September 26, 2018, 02:04:19 PM
Post by: #jonesy on October 03, 2018, 04:07:47 PM
Post by: #jonesy on October 03, 2018, 04:12:12 PM
and some of the various eggs we get
Post by: #jonesy on January 19, 2019, 12:36:10 PM
Only getting 2 eggs a day at the moment.
Post by: JamesMac on January 19, 2019, 01:42:15 PM
This is directly out the Keeping of poultry fact sheet: the poultry shed must be 1 metre from any boundary and 9 meters from any house or street.I have to admit - being in the same local government area as you that I ended up ignoring the rules and building my coop up against the boundary fence - the only time I was sweating on it was when the neighbour (who didn't care about it being there) sold up. Luckily for the me new guy over that fence doesn't care either - the occasional carton of eggs goes a long way... I also go by the theory that they have better things to worry about than the placement of a well managed yard for 2 chooks!
When I checked with the CoJ my understanding is it was the shed where they sleep that had to be a metre off the boundary, the run outside that shed did not fall under the same restrictions. The pool fence inspector didn't mention anything about the placement of it, only that I needed to cover some of the mesh with something where it is too close to the fence.
Not sure if that helps with the geometry of your place.
Good luck,
JM
Post by: WilSurf on January 19, 2019, 07:09:04 PM
Are you in the suburbs or the outer urban area of CoJ?
Post by: JamesMac on January 20, 2019, 11:23:38 AM
Post by: Hoyks on January 20, 2019, 12:22:33 PM
I threw a hot dog roll out on the lawn and 2 of the chooks launched themselves at it. Shortly after a crow turned up and started stalking towards the roll.
The elsa hen (Dinner) was having none of that, so she chased the crow off and went back to the bun.
Crow stalks in closer and Dinner goes the crow again, crow just hops further away, lured Dinner around 20m away before hopping over her head and going for the roll.
The fat Australorp (Chubchub) sees the crow inbound, is going to have none of that and goes the crow.
From there it was like watching an A grade soccer player subbing into a D grade game. Chubchub and Dinner both launched themselves at the crow who effortlessly dodged and sidestepped the angry chickens, grabbed the whole bun and legged it.
Post by: austastar on January 20, 2019, 01:21:31 PM
Having caught a large huntsman in a jar, I was taking it out the back to release it in the garden.
As I ejected it from the jar towards the lawn I was aware of a grey blur, inbound , from my left.
Chook met spider at the point of ground contact.
Ooops, sorry spider.
Cheers
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Post by: Pete79 on September 16, 2019, 11:17:17 AM
My neighbors coop was a mess from that attack.
The neighbor on the other side he got a shot at one of the dogs, but missed it. He reckons it was a big black mongrel, obviously the baiting they’ve been doing up on the ranges lately hasn’t been enough to get the whole pack of ferals.
But sadly for us the cunning little fox got into our place last night and killed our big fat Sussex.
She was so fat he couldn’t drag her back through the little hole he’d managed to squeeze through on my double lined fence.
Had a quick little burial early this morning before the kids saw it half chewed.
We’re down to 4 in our coop now. :(
Post by: rockrat on September 16, 2019, 01:25:09 PM
I wasn’t clear if she was worried about the dogs, the lizard or the fact she couldn’t hear the TV due to the commotion. I asked her to send a photo of the lizard but she said it was huge and she wasn’t going anywhere near it!
Finally arrived home about and hour later to find the dogs (Cavalier King Charles spaniels) dining out on a poor blue tongue lizard which was probably 30cm long but definitely not the Kamodo dragon size she made out it was over the phone.
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Post by: Fizzie on March 19, 2020, 02:26:49 PM
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-03-19/backyard-chickens-in-demand-due-to-coronavirus/12068392 (https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-03-19/backyard-chickens-in-demand-due-to-coronavirus/12068392)
Wonder what's going to happen with all of them when the panic is over ???
Post by: #jonesy on March 19, 2020, 02:48:56 PM
Post by: GGV8Cruza on March 19, 2020, 03:13:18 PM
& for the latest run on all available supplies! ::)
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-03-19/backyard-chickens-in-demand-due-to-coronavirus/12068392 (https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-03-19/backyard-chickens-in-demand-due-to-coronavirus/12068392)
Wonder what's going to happen with all of them when the panic is over ???
Our local supplier is totally out. Ours are laying great at the moment. 9 in total
GG
Post by: Fizzie on March 19, 2020, 04:53:11 PM
Post by: britts on March 19, 2020, 04:58:09 PM
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Post by: GGV8Cruza on March 19, 2020, 05:40:17 PM
So you're selling eggs at the front gate, & making a killing, GG ??? ;D
Not yet, maybe soon though ;D
GG
Post by: #jonesy on March 19, 2020, 06:11:41 PM
Post by: ronmac on March 20, 2020, 07:05:58 AM
Not sure what happened with the little egg?Poor thing must have been a virgin.
Post by: WilSurf on April 19, 2020, 07:23:21 PM
What do people who live in the suburbs have?
Post by: Jillsy on April 19, 2020, 09:26:55 PM
Just decided that we want a chicken coop.
What do people who live in the suburbs have?
I've seen people mesh in old trampoline frames and swing frames?
Post by: WilSurf on April 20, 2020, 11:51:09 AM
Post by: Bird on April 20, 2020, 12:09:31 PM
Quote from: WilSurf
Just decided that we want a chicken coop.check with their councils on regulations - some have rules on teh type of enclosure you need too
What do people who live in the suburbs have?
Post by: GGV8Cruza on April 20, 2020, 12:49:53 PM
https://www.backyardchickencoops.com.au/ (https://www.backyardchickencoops.com.au/)
GG
Post by: Bird on July 02, 2020, 05:01:11 PM
Post by: chester ver2.0 on July 16, 2020, 11:06:59 AM
We started with a coop from these guys, it was an easy way to start and it has grown since then
https://www.backyardchickencoops.com.au/ (https://www.backyardchickencoops.com.au/)
GG
Sweet jesus are you keeping chickens or royalty in your back yard looking at some of those coops
Post by: rexy03 on July 16, 2020, 08:55:19 PM
We had the same
Post by: Fizzie on July 24, 2020, 11:17:12 AM
What do you do (if anything) about cleaning / sterilising the eggs before eating ???
Chatting t'other day & subject of salmonella came up (BiL picked up a dose of it a few years ago via egg salad at a very well known NT establishment ::) :'( >:()
Apparently, all eggs are supposed to be sterilised after being laid to avoid contamination via the shell ???
So what do you do ???
Post by: rexy03 on July 24, 2020, 11:38:59 AM
Post by: Beachman on July 24, 2020, 02:14:03 PM
Post by: #jonesy on July 24, 2020, 09:07:00 PM
I've only had rats a couple of times and put out dirty big traps.
Post by: GGV8Cruza on July 25, 2020, 06:44:53 AM
Do you guys have a problem with rats now that you have chickens?? I know rats are a part of life, but since our neighbours got chickens myself and another neighbour are now seeing rats or hearing our dogs chase the rats during the night.
We do at times and bait when needed. More in the warmer months
GG
Post by: Fox67 on July 25, 2020, 06:45:50 AM
If I think there are any rats around (always some somewhere) I set a trap or carefully select an area to place a bait. Or use them for target practice as I have no close neighbours.
Post by: Wazza999 on July 25, 2020, 01:24:41 PM
Do you guys have a problem with rats now that you have chickens?? I know rats are a part of life, but since our neighbours got chickens myself and another neighbour are now seeing rats or hearing our dogs chase the rats during the night.I haven't had chickens since leaving home nigh on 50 years ago, but yes chook food and rats went together. That's how I learnt to shoot. Bit of bread as bait, corrugated tin chook house behind, camouflaged under the house air rifle ready. After I'd knocked off a few, a quick whistle to the neighbours Labrador who'd collect them, play with the carcasses then bury them. Simples and simpler times, don't reckon that approach would go down too well nowadays
. Bloody rats would attack the hatchlings as well. 2011 NT Pajero; 2007 Goldstream Crown 4B
Post by: #jonesy on January 01, 2021, 07:50:33 PM
I also got 2 ducks as something different. Turns out they poop a LOT.
I also picked up some automatic water troughs off Facebook for 10 bucks so that takes away one of the daily chores.
I even grabbed one for the dogs water bowl.
Post by: Wazza999 on January 01, 2021, 08:41:13 PM
You're not wrong, it's waddle, waddle, poop... repeat ad infinitum. I was given a couple of ducks as a kid, chooks are a model of decorum in comparison. Duck eggs are quite a different taste, we used them in cakes.
I'd like to get chooks again but they'd be too difficult to care for when we are away, plus there are lots of urban foxes around where we live.
2011 NT Pajero; 2007 Goldstream Crown 4B
Post by: GGV8Cruza on July 12, 2021, 03:36:43 PM
Lost 3 chooks yesterday morning, let them out around 8am and had to go to soccer. The fog rolled in and must have gave the local fox a bit of cover, lost 2 to him and left one in the pen on the ground. That will teach me to trust the buggers. Now have to start the layer process again, still have 2 left at the moment but they are a bit skitish, one came up to the house and hung out on the deck for the day which is not normal, foxy scared them good.
GG
Post by: Fizzie on July 22, 2023, 10:24:07 AM
https://www.chickenorb.com/ (https://www.chickenorb.com/)
Post by: corndog on July 22, 2023, 12:10:04 PM
Post by: 2010banditsa on October 31, 2023, 03:16:44 PM
'also got 2 ducks as something different. Turns out they poop a LOT.'you forgot sip of water, poop, sip, poop... makes for very wet poops as well.
You're not wrong, it's waddle, waddle, poop... repeat ad infinitum.
2011 NT Pajero; 2007 Goldstream Crown 4B
Post by: Harbourmaster on October 31, 2023, 09:47:28 PM
Don't recall ever seeing or evidence of rats around our place for 30 years. That was until the new neighbours out the back moved in. With them came their dog, that was OK, Dolly the lamb, but that only made it to Christmas, chooks, still around, and an open compost heap that they still keep going. Now we got 20 odd Indian Myna birds, no i won't call them common myna to be politically correct. And rats most of the time, even been in my roof space. Now both side neighbours and I grow vegetables and fruits, but one neighbour have been doing it for decades and complains to me that now he has rat problems. All 3 of us have seen and trapped plenty of rats. Forget birds eating your crop, try stopping the rats. I got 8 this year in my back garden beds so far.We just moved to WA & inherited 4 chooks & an unknown amount of rats. Down to the hardware, bought some wax blocks to poison them. Got 2 in the shed, 1 in the fowl yard & another in the house roof. Don’t know if there were anymore but no sign of them for 4 weeks, and cobwebs growing were they once roamed. There is alway 2 baits set so I can keep an eye on things.
Post by: austastar on November 03, 2023, 08:49:24 AM
Check the baits won't poison owls if they eat a dead rat .
Cheers
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Post by: Harbourmaster on November 03, 2023, 09:27:26 PM
Post by: GGV8Cruza on November 04, 2023, 03:20:22 PM
GG