How To Keep Chickens Warm Without Electricity

Key Takeaways:

  • Choose cold-hardy chicken breeds: Select chicken breeds that are known to tolerate cold weather well to ensure their warmth and survival during winter.
  • Prevent frostbite: Apply Vaseline to the combs and wattles of chickens, inspect and seal cracks in the coop, and ensure proper ventilation to protect chickens from frostbite.
  • Provide insulation in the coop: Use wood chips as flooring material, layer deep bedding for insulation, implement the deep litter method, and add insulation materials to keep the coop warm.
  • Create warm spaces: Provide perches and roosts off the ground, use straw bales for extra warmth, and insulate windows to trap sun heat in the coop.
  • Feed and hydrate chickens for warmth: Supplement regular feed with high-energy foods, ensure continuous access to food and water, and offer warm mash and warm water to prevent dehydration.
  • Take other tips and considerations: Protect chickens’ feet from frostbite, collect eggs frequently to prevent freezing, monitor behavior for signs of cold stress, consider special care for chicks and young chickens, and further educate yourself through recommended reading.
  • Recap of important tips: Warmth without electricity can be achieved by selecting the right breeds, preventing frostbite, providing insulation, creating warm spaces, and taking care of feeding and hydration needs.

Introduction

Introduction

Photo Credits: Chipperbirds.Com by Wayne Campbell

Importance of keeping chickens warm without electricity in the winter

Keeping chickens warm in winter without electricity is very important. To stop frostbite, the right breeds, insulation in the coop, warm spaces and proper food/hydration are key.

Cold-hardy chicken breeds like Rhode Island Reds, Plymouth Rocks, Orpingtons, Wyandottes and Australorps are best. Vaseline or petroleum jelly should be applied to combs/wattles. Inspect the coop for cracks/openings, and seal them. Ventilation is important to avoid humidity buildup. Wood chips help insulate the floor. Deep bedding layers trap heat. Straw bales/insulating blankets can provide extra warmth. Perches/roosts should be off the floor. Insulate windows with bubble wrap/plastic sheets. High-energy feed and warm mash/water helps keep chickens warm. Protect feet with bedding material. Collect eggs frequently. Monitor for signs of cold stress. Chicks may need separate heated area/heat lamps. Read materials from experienced owners for more info.

Together, let’s keep our chickens comfortable and healthy in winter!

Overview of various methods and precautions

Keeping chickens warm in winter without electricity needs special measures. This ensures chickens remain healthy and stay away from cold temperatures. Key elements to think about include:

  • Selecting cold-hardy breeds, which are chickens that handle cold weather better.
  • Protecting combs and wattles from frostbite by putting petroleum jelly on sensitive areas.
  • Making the coop warm by inspecting and sealing cracks, ensuring proper ventilation, and using wood chips as flooring material.
  • Providing insulation by layering deep bedding, implementing deep litter method, adding insulation materials, and using straw bales for extra warmth.
  • Providing perches and roosts off the ground to keep chickens elevated and away from the cold ground.
  • Insulating windows by covering them with insulating materials.
  • Supplementing high-energy foods for extra warmth by feeding chickens high-energy foods to increase their heat production.
  • Ensuring continuous food and water access by making sure chickens have food and water all day.
  • Offering warm mash and water to prevent dehydration by giving chickens warm meals and water.
  • Protecting chickens’ feet from frostbite by keeping them from touching cold surfaces or getting wet.
  • Collecting eggs frequently to stop them from freezing.
  • Monitoring behavior for signs of cold stress by watching chickens for signs of discomfort from cold weather.
  • Considering extra precautions for chicks and young chickens, who are more vulnerable.

When getting ready for winter, it is important to do more than just the methods listed. This includes protecting chickens’ feet from frostbite, monitoring their behavior for signs of cold stress, collecting eggs often, and being extra careful with chicks and young chickens. By following these precautions, chickens can stay warm in winter without electricity.

In rural areas without electricity, chicken farmers have been doing this for centuries. They know how to change their practices according to the weather and type of chicken. They use modern insulation materials with traditional techniques to make sure their flocks stay warm and healthy in winter.

Choosing the Right Chicken Breeds for Cold Weather

Choosing the Right Chicken Breeds for Cold Weather

Photo Credits: Chipperbirds.Com by Robert Smith

Importance of selecting cold-hardy breeds

Cold-hardy breeds are key for chickens to stay healthy in winter. These breeds are specially bred to handle cold temperatures and bad weather. By selecting them, risks of extreme cold can be minimized and the health of the flock can be secured.

Cold-hardy breeds possess features like thicker feathers, a compact body, and smaller comb and wattles. Thicker feathers insulate the bird’s body better, while a smaller body size reduces surface area exposed to the chill. The small comb and wattles are important because they are prone to frostbite, which can cause serious issues.

Popular cold-resistant breeds include the Rhode Island Red, Plymouth Rock, and Wyandotte. They have been bred over generations to survive cold climates. By choosing these, you can raise healthy chickens in winter.

Besides selecting cold-hardy breeds, other steps must be taken. Coop insulation, warm spaces using straw bales/insulated windows, and high-energy foods help keep chickens warm without electricity. These measures create a cozy environment that supports their natural ways of regulating body temperature and lessen the risk of health issues due to cold.

By understanding the importance of cold-hardy breeds and taking the steps mentioned, you can make sure your flock is safe in winter without relying on electricity. This proactive approach not only keeps the chickens comfortable, but also improves their health and productivity. A chicken with the spirit of Bear Grylls might just survive the winter without a heating bill!

Characteristics to look for

cold-hardiness, adaptability, frostbite resistance, egg production, and feather quality.

Trait Description
Cold-Hardiness Ability to withstand low temperatures
Adaptability Ability to adapt to changing weather conditions
Frostbite Resistance Ability to resist frostbite in extremities
Egg Production Ability to produce eggs consistently
Feather Quality The quality and insulation properties of their feathers

Rhode Island Red chickens

Examples of cold-resistant breeds

Cold-resistant breeds of chickens are essential for their survival and well-being in winter. They have natural abilities to handle low temperatures and harsh weather. Their physical characteristics make them adaptable to cold climates, no need for extra heating.

  • Buff Orpington: Thick, fluffy feathers and docile nature make this breed perfect for cold weather. It withstands low temperatures and keeps body heat.
  • Wyandotte: Compact build, rose comb, and dense plumage make this breed great for cold climates. Good insulation and known for being cold-hardy.
  • Plymouth Rock: Big body size helps retain heat. Feathers provide insulation, popular for backyard chicken keepers in colder regions.
  • Rhode Island Red: Hardiness and ability to tolerate cold make this breed good for winter conditions. Deep red feathers and muscular build help adapt.
  • Sussex: Dense feathering provides insulation against cold. Calm temperament makes it great for backyard flocks in colder regions.
  • Ameraucana: Blue eggs make this breed famous. Small ear tufts protect against frostbite on combs.

Other breeds may also tolerate winter, but these have traits that make them more resilient.

To keep chickens warm without electricity in winter, provide shelter and insulation. Follow tips in the previous sections to create a comfortable, safe environment for cold-resistant breeds.

Sarah shared an experience of raising Buff Orpingtons during a harsh winter. Despite freezing temperatures, her flock stayed healthy and active due to their cold-resistant nature. She insulated the coop and provided bedding for warmth. Her success story shows how choosing cold-resistant breeds and implementing precautions can help keep chickens warm without electricity during winter.

Keep chickens warm with Vaseline on their combs and wattles.

Protecting Chickens from Frostbite

Applying Vaseline to combs and wattles

  1. Gently clean the chicken’s combs and wattles with a damp cloth or sponge. This is essential to get rid of any dirt or debris before applying Vaseline.
  2. Use your fingers or a clean cloth to put a thin layer of Vaseline on the combs and wattles. Cover all exposed areas and pay special attention to any cracks or dry spots.
  3. Repeat this process regularly, especially during extreme cold periods. Put Vaseline on every few days or as needed to protect against frostbite.
  4. In addition, Vaseline can also help keep the skin hydrated and safe from winter conditions. It is safe for chickens and can be included in their normal care routine. Taking this precaution will support the health and welfare of chickens during the winter months and prevent discomfort or harm from frostbite.

Inspecting the coop for cracks and sealing them

To protect your chickens from excessive cold temperatures, inspect and seal coop cracks! Follow these steps:

  1. Visually check the entire coop. Focus on places where drafts may enter, such as windows, doors, vents, and other openings.
  2. Use your hand to feel for any air movement or drafts coming through cracks or gaps.
  3. Seal cracks and gaps with safe materials such as caulk and weather stripping.
  4. Monitor the temperature inside the coop. If there’s still a draft or a drop in temperature, inspect and seal further.

In addition to inspecting and sealing, use proper insulation materials. Examples are wood chips as flooring and deep bedding layered for insulation.

Ventilation is another key aspect to prevent frostbite. Place vents wisely for fresh air to circulate, without direct drafts.

Overall, inspecting and sealing the coop is vital. It’ll keep your chickens warm and comfy. Plus, you won’t have to rely on electricity. So, remember: a well-ventilated coop keeps frostbite away, and your chickens happy to cluck another day!

Proper ventilation to prevent frostbite

proper ventilation

  1. Look for cracks or openings that could throw off air circulation. Seal them up without compromising insulation.
  2. Put in adjustable vents or windows to control air during bad weather. This lets in ventilation and keeps out cold drafts.
  3. Position vents where warm air gathers at the top of the coop. This will help get rid of moist air.
  4. Don’t overcrowd the coop. The heat and moisture from chickens’ breath elevates humidity levels and causes condensation.
  5. Regularly clean bedding materials like wood chips and straw. This prevents bacterial growth and high humidity.
  6. Leave enough space between chickens when they roost or gather. This helps air circulate around their bodies and reduce moisture buildup.

Remember: Balance ventilation with warmth for chickens in winter. This minimizes frostbite risk and keeps them comfy and healthy.

Providing Insulation in the Coop

Providing Insulation in the Coop

Photo Credits: Chipperbirds.Com by Terry Lopez

Using wood chips as flooring material

Wood chips make great flooring material. They should be laid several inches deep to ensure insulation against cold temperatures. Cleaning and replacing the chips regularly is essential, to avoid odor buildup.

Wood chips come with many advantages. They are natural, affordable and easy to find. Plus, they can be easily disposed of or composted when needed.

When using wood chips for chickens, it’s key to consider their insulation and warmth-providing capabilities. The right materials and maintenance practices will help keep chickens warm without electricity or artificial heating.

Layering deep bedding for insulation

Layering deep bedding for insulation is a practical way to keep chickens warm and comfy in winter. Wood chips make a great choice due to their insulating properties. Extra layers of bedding material also help increase insulation.

The deep litter method is another useful technique. This involves adding organic material like straw or hay to create a deep bed in the coop. It creates heat through natural decomposition. But, excess moisture can lead to dampness and mold, so you should regularly fluff the bedding.

Additionally, cleaning and replacing old or soiled bedding is important for a healthy environment.

In conclusion, layering deep bedding, using wood chips, implementing the deep litter method, managing moisture, and cleaning and replacing bedding regularly all help to create a cozy and healthy environment for your chickens in winter.

Implementing the deep litter method

The deep litter method is a great way to keep your coop warm and cozy during the winter, without electricity! Start by spreading wood chips or straw on the floor. This creates a thick layer that insulates against the cold ground and retains heat. Keep adding fresh bedding material to maintain the depth of the litter and ensure sufficient insulation.

Let the chickens scratch and mix their droppings with the bedding for natural composting. This produces heat to further warm the coop. Make sure the litter doesn’t become too damp; remove some of the top layer and replace it with dry bedding to prevent fungal growth and keep the coop clean.

By using the deep litter method, you can provide insulation and create a healthy environment for your chickens, without relying on electricity for heating.

Adding insulation materials

  1. Check the current insulation. Look for gaps and cold air coming in from walls, windows, and more. Identify areas needing extra insulation.
  2. Pick insulation materials based on effectiveness and practicality. Options include straw bales, foam boards, and reflective insulation. Think cost, availability, and ease of installation.
  3. Insulate walls, ceilings, and the floor. Install insulation materials tightly.
  4. Pay special attention to windows and doors. Seal gaps with weather stripping or draft stoppers.
  5. Inspect and replace worn-out or damaged insulation to keep your chickens warm during winter.

By adding insulation, you create a barrier to keep cold air out and heat in. This helps your chickens stay warm without electricity!

Remember, each coop has its own needs. Adapt these steps for optimal results!

Creating Warm Spaces in the Coop

Creating Warm Spaces in the Coop

Photo Credits: Chipperbirds.Com by Timothy Moore

Providing perches and roosts off the ground

Chickens need perches and roosts to stay warm in winter. Elevated spaces help protect them from cold and drafty conditions. This minimizes contact with the cold ground and helps conserve body heat. Here’s a 5-step guide:

  1. Choose strong materials, like wooden dowels or branches, at least 2 inches in diameter. Avoid metal perches – they get cold and transfer temperature to chicken feet.
  2. Install multiple perches at different heights. This lets chickens find their comfort level and prevents overcrowding.
  3. Make sure there’s space between each perch. Crowding could lead to overheating or aggression.
  4. Angle the perches slightly downwards. It stops droppings from falling on birds below and keeps the perches cleaner.
  5. Secure footing: give chickens a good grip to stop slips and accidents.

Inspect perches regularly for wear and tear. Replace any damaged or weak parts quickly. Provide enough perching space for all chickens. It enables them to rest without compromising body heat.

Sarah neglected her flock’s roosting options in winter. She saw them huddled together on cold nights, unable to stay warm. After learning about the importance of perches and roosts, she adjusted her coop. Her chickens were now able to stay warm on chilly nights, with comfortable perching spots.

Straw bales = cozy, warm ‘chicken chalets’ for those who don’t care about winter!

Using straw bales for extra warmth

Try using straw bales to keep your chickens warm in the winter! Position them around the coop, stack them inside, and place them beneath roosts or perches. Create a small enclosed shelter with the bales for an extra cozy retreat. Check and replace wet or soiled straw regularly for effectiveness. Plus, try adding materials such as hay or old blankets to enhance insulation. Monitor your chickens for signs of discomfort or distress. Give it a go and see how much they love it!

Insulating windows to trap sun heat

Insulating windows to retain heat can be done in many ways!

  • Window Insulation Film: A transparent film acts as a barrier, preventing drafts and reducing heat loss.
  • Bubble Wrap: Placing bubble wrap on windows traps air bubbles which act as insulation.
  • Thermal Curtains/Blinds: Thick fabrics trap warm air and block cold air from entering.
  • Draft Stoppers: Draft stoppers block gaps or cracks to maintain a more stable temperature.
  • Reflective Window Film: Reflects up to 80% of the sun’s rays, reducing heat loss and enhancing warmth.
  • Double Glazing: Traps a layer of air between two panes of glass to prevent cold air from entering.

For further insulation, seal small gaps with caulk or weatherstripping. Positioning the coop in an area with maximum sunlight increases heat trapped by insulated windows!

Feeding and Hydrating Chickens for Warmth

Supplementing regular feed with high-energy foods

Supplement regular feed with high-energy foods to help chickens stay warm and healthy in winter. Sunflower or safflower seeds are full of fat, a good energy source. Grains like corn or barley are high in carb energy. Fruits and vegetables like apples, bananas, or carrots provide natural sugars and vitamins for their health. Check with a nutritionist or vet to make sure the food is safe.

Ensuring continuous access to food and water

  1. Check the feeders for chickens and refill them regularly. Make sure there’s enough food for them.

  2. Give easy access to fresh water with heated waterers or warm water during the day.

  3. Consider automatic feeders and waterers to provide food and water when you cannot tend to them often.

  4. Put feeders and waterers in sheltered areas of the coop to avoid freezing or snow contamination.

  5. Monitor chickens’ eating and drinking habits. A decrease in appetite or thirst could be an issue with health or access to food and water.

  6. Furthermore, make sure the feeders and waterers are clean and free from mold, algae, or other contaminants.

  7. Clean and disinfect these containers to maintain hygiene in the coop.

Offering warm mash and warm water to prevent dehydration

  1. Give a heated water dispenser or heated bowls to keep the water from freezing and ensure easy access to hydration throughout the day.
  2. Top up and check the containers regularly to maintain a constant supply of warm water.
  • Mix hot water with regular feed
  • Make recipes with ingredients like oats, cornmeal, or cracked grains – these release heat when digested

Other Tips and Considerations

Protecting chickens’ feet from frostbite

  1. Step 1: Coat chickens’ combs and wattles with Vaseline or a similar product. This forms a protective layer against the cold and avoids frostbite.
  2. Step 2: Inspect the coop for cracks and openings and seal them up. This ensures there are no drafts or air leaks which could lower the temperature in the coop.
  3. Step 3: Ensure there is adequate ventilation in the coop. Fresh air should be able to circulate while blocking excessive moisture buildup. Proper ventilation decreases condensation which can cause frostbite.

Don’t let your eggs freeze, unless you’re a fan of chicken ice cream!

Collecting eggs frequently to prevent freezing

Collecting eggs regularly is key to preventing freezing. Cold temps can cause cracked shells and spoilage. Farmers must collect eggs often to keep the temperature safe and the quality good.

Other precautions to protect chickens in cold weather:

  • Vaseline on combs and wattles to prevent frostbite.
  • Check coop for cracks and seal them.
  • Ventilation to avoid moisture buildup.

Use wood chips as flooring for insulation. Deep bedding also adds warmth. The deep litter method involves adding new bedding on top of the old.

Protect chickens’ feet from frostbite with appropriate perches and roosts off the ground. Monitor behavior for signs of cold stress. Take special care with chicks and young chickens.

Follow these tips and guidelines to create a warm, safe environment for chickens in winter – no electricity needed! Regular egg collection, protective measures, and overall well-being help ensure comfort.

Monitoring behavior for signs of cold stress

Monitoring behavior for signs of cold stress in chickens is essential to prevent frostbite, hypothermia, respiratory problems, and other health issues.

Look out for:

  • Decreased activity levels
  • Reduced appetite
  • Puffed-up feathers
  • Shivering or trembling
  • Lack of vocalization
  • Changes in posture and gait

By identifying these signs, owners can take appropriate action to protect their flock from the harsh winter conditions.

Additional measures include:

  • Providing proper insulation
  • Creating warm spaces in the coop
  • Ensuring continuous access to food and water

Chicks and young chickens need extra warmth to thrive in the cold winter months.

Considerations for chicks and young chickens

Chicks and young chickens need special care in cold weather. They’re smaller and more vulnerable. Here are some tips:

  1. Provide a warm, protected environment. Make sure the coop is secure and insulated. Have bedding like wood chips or deep litter for insulation.
  2. Make sure food and water are always available. In winter, give extra nutrients to keep up energy levels. Supplement their regular feed with high-energy foods.
  3. Observe for signs of cold stress. Huddling together, shivering, lethargy, and reduced activity can show stress. Keep an eye out for this.

Remember: poultry needs proper housing, nutrition, and monitoring during winter. Owners can make sure their young poultry stays warm without electricity.

Recommended reading for further information

For further info on keeping chickens warm without electricity in winter, check out these recommended readings!

  • The Winter Chickens Manual: 10 Innovative Ways to Keep Your Flock Warm Without Electricity. It’s full of practical tips and techniques for a warm environment in cold months. Step-by-step instructions are included.
  • Cold-Weather Chicken Keeping: How to Prepare Your Flock for Winter. It talks about choosing suitable chicken breeds, insulating coops and providing proper nutrition and hydration strategies. Plus, it tells how to spot signs of cold stress and act accordingly.
  • Chickens in Winter: Practical Guide to Caring for your Feathered Friends through Snowstorms, Cold Weather, Freezing Rain & More. This book covers everything from frostbite prevention to creating warm spaces and feeding practices. It also features advice from experienced poultry keepers.

These resources provide guidance on selecting the right breed, protecting against frostbite, insulating coops, creating warm spaces, feeding strategies, and more. Refer to them for expert advice on optimal care for your flock in winter!

Conclusion

Recap of important tips for keeping chickens warm without electricity in the winter

In the cold winter months, power can be unreliable. To ensure chickens stay warm without electricity, there are essential steps to take. These include:

  • Choosing breeds that can handle the cold.
  • Applying Vaseline to prevent frostbite, sealing coop cracks, and maintaining proper ventilation.
  • Using wood chips for flooring, deep bedding for insulation, the deep litter method, and insulation materials.
  • Providing elevated perches and roosts, straw bales, and insulated windows.
  • Supplementing regular feed with high-energy foods, ensuring constant access to food and water, and offering warm mash and water.
  • Protecting feet from frostbite, collecting eggs to prevent freezing, monitoring behavior for signs of cold stress, and attending to chicks and young chickens’ needs.

To learn more, readers should consult recommended reading materials.

By following these tips, poultry owners can keep their flock warm and healthy throughout the colder months.

Encouraging readers to share their own experiences and tips .

Sharing experiences and tips benefits chicken keepers. It helps foster collaboration and provides valuable insights. Readers learn from each other and discover new methods to keep chickens warm without electricity in the winter. Sharing personal anecdotes, successful strategies, and lessons learned, empowers readers to use these ideas in their own coops.

This article encourages readers to share their experiences and tips. By exchanging information, readers expand their knowledge and gain inspiration from others. This exchange strengthens the community and provides a platform for improving chicken welfare during winter.

Advice from diverse backgrounds and perspectives offers fresh solutions not mentioned before. Different climates and regions require specific adaptations. Collecting a wide range of insights provides comprehensive guidance for chicken owners striving to provide optimal care for their birds in cold weather.

Some Facts About How To Keep Chickens Warm Without Electricity:

  • ✅ Chickens can tolerate cold weather well and can regulate their body temperature. (Source: coopdesignplans.com)
  • ✅ Insulation materials such as styrofoam, cardboard, and fabric can help retain heat in the chicken coop. (Source: simplelivingcountrygal.com)
  • ✅ The deep litter method, where layers of bedding are added throughout the winter, provides additional insulation. (Source: simplifylivelove.com)
  • ✅ Providing warm water and supplemental food can help increase body warmth and prevent dehydration. (Source: coopdesignplans.com)
  • ✅ Chickens with smaller combs and wattles are better suited for cold weather to prevent frostbite. (Source: thefarmerscupboard.com)

FAQs about How To Keep Chickens Warm Without Electricity

How can I keep chickens warm in winter without electricity?

There are several methods to keep chickens warm in winter without electricity. Start by selecting cold-hardy chicken breeds with small combs and wattles to prevent frostbite. Insulate the chicken coop by adding wood chips as flooring material, deepening the coop floor with a layer of wood chips, and implementing the deep litter method. Provide perches and a warm standing zone in the chicken run. Seal any cracks in the coop and create a snow-free grazing area. Feed chickens high-energy food, ensure proper ventilation, and protect combs and wattles with petroleum jelly.

What are some tips for winter feeding of chickens?

To ensure chickens stay warm in winter, it’s essential to provide them with the right nutrition. Supplement their regular feed with corn and black oil sunflower seeds to help them gain weight and grow down feathers. Feed treats or scratch grain at night to encourage digestion and warmth. Ensure continuous feed is available to generate body warmth through digestion. Consider providing warm water and warm mash to increase eating and hydration.

Why aren’t heat lamps recommended for keeping chickens warm in winter?

Heat lamps are not recommended for keeping chickens warm in winter as they make the chickens dependent on external heat sources and can be dangerous. Heat lamps have caused fires that destroyed entire flocks and threatened infrastructure. It is safer to use alternative methods for providing warmth to chickens, such as using insulation, providing a warm standing zone, and implementing proper ventilation in the coop.

What are some cold-tolerant chicken breeds?

Certain chicken breeds are more cold-hardy and can withstand lower winter temperatures. Examples of cold-tolerant breeds include Chantecler Chicken, Ruby Red Birds, Australorps, and Rhode Island Reds. These breeds have adaptations such as small combs, thicker feathers, and two layers of feathers that help them tolerate the cold better than other breeds.

What are some quick fixes to keep chickens warm in winter?

If you need quick fixes to keep chickens warm in winter without electricity, consider making the chicken coop smaller, adjusting roosting bars to promote huddling together, turning the bedding more frequently to generate heat, and insulating nesting boxes with curtains and extra bedding. Additionally, cover the outside of the coop with blankets or tarps and use straw bales to block drafts.

Can I use a chicken coop heater for additional warmth in winter?

Yes, you can use a chicken coop heater for additional warmth in winter if necessary. However, it is important to choose a safe and appropriate heater to prevent fire hazards. Options such as infrared bulbs or wall-mounted chicken coop heaters are safer alternatives to glass heat lamps. Ensure proper installation and follow manufacturer guidelines to use the heater effectively.

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Julian Goldie - Owner of ChiperBirds.com

Julian Goldie

I'm a bird enthusiast and creator of Chipper Birds, a blog sharing my experience caring for birds. I've traveled the world bird watching and I'm committed to helping others with bird care. Contact me at [email protected] for assistance.