Archive for May, 2024

31 May

Welcome Back to Nature!

Posted by chickenwoman in Uncategorized.


The Lake View Nature Center warmly invites you to celebrate the warm weather season at their “Welcome Back to Nature” event on Friday, June 7th, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM. Home to Roost will be there with a chicken, and could be bringing some other friends! This family-friendly festival is a free event designed for all ages, offering a perfect opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors together. Attendees can look forward to a variety of exciting activities, including animal encounters, fishing, games, crafts, and a cozy campfire.

This event is a wonderful chance to discover everything the Nature Center has to offer year-round. Whether you’re interested in learning more about local wildlife through interactive stations or simply enjoying some quality family time surrounded by nature, there’s something for everyone. The event promises a blend of education and entertainment, making it an ideal outing for families to create lasting memories.

No registration is required for this delightful evening of fun and exploration. Gather your family and friends and head to the Lake View Nature Center to welcome back the warm weather season in style. Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to enjoy the beauty of nature.

For more information, visit the event page here. 


Event Details:

Date: Friday, June 7th

Time: 6:00 to 8:00 PM

Location: Lake View Nature Center 17W063 Hodges Rd, Oakbrook Terrace, IL 60181

27 May

Cute cochin bantam roo seeking home

Posted by chickenwoman in Uncategorized.


Cochin bantam roo in Oak Park (IL) seeking home. 7 weeks old. Contact Kathryn: kathrynhumphreys4 AT gmail

23 May

Educational Programs for an Eco-Friendly Lifestyle: 25 Ready-to-Use Sustainable Living Programs for Libraries

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Are you looking to integrate engaging and educational programs into your library that promote sustainable living? Look no further than the book 25 Ready-to-Use Sustainable Living Programs for Libraries. This comprehensive resource provides a diverse range of ready-to-implement programs designed to educate and inspire library patrons of all ages about sustainable practices. Purchase online at Amazon or the ALA Store. 

About the Book

25 Ready-to-Use Sustainable Living Programs for Libraries is a must-have for public and school libraries aiming to enhance their programming with sustainability-focused content. Each program is carefully crafted to be engaging, informative, and easy to implement, requiring minimal cost and preparation. From gardening and recycling to renewable energy and eco-friendly crafts, the book covers a broad spectrum of topics suitable for various age groups.

Featured Program: “All About Chickens!”

One of the standout programs in this collection is “All About Chickens!” a hands-on, educational program designed for children ages 3–7 and tweens ages 8–12. “All About Chickens!” invites young participants to explore the fascinating world of chickens through a variety of interactive stations.

The program begins with a brief lesson where kids learn about chickens’ physical characteristics, the differences between male and female chickens, the various types of feathers, and the parts of an egg. If time permits, children can also view a picture of a developing embryo inside an egg. Kids then move to stations where they compare and color or draw different breeds of chickens, explore the intricacies of feathers, examine eggs, and meet a live chicken (optional). Each station is supervised by an adult to ensure a smooth educational experience, and the program can host up to 15 participants with three stations, or 20 participants with four stations. Cost is minimal ($0–$50). 

Contact Home to Roost if you’re interested in hosting “All About Chickens!” at your library or school! 

2 May

Home to Roost Offering New Services

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Attention all chicken enthusiasts! Home to Roost is expanding our services to better cater to the needs of your feathered friends.

Health Services

If you’re concerned about internal and external parasites, we offer the following new on-site services: 

Treatment for Common Poultry Pests: We now offer on-site treatment for internal and external parasites, which can wreak havoc on your chickens’ health and comfort.

Sample Collection for Disease Testing: Home to Roost can take samples that can be mailed out for analysis for diseases such as Marek’s and other common poultry illnesses. 

Vacation Assistance

Planning a vacation and need someone to look after your chickens while you’re away? Home to Roost has got you covered. We offered boarding and on-site pet sitting on a limited basis and also can be on-call for your pet sitter during your vacation. 
At Home to Roost, we’re passionate about poultry health and dedicated to providing top-notch care for your feathered companions. Contact us here for more details.

2 May

HPAI Still a Concern in US Flocks

Posted by pankaalexander in Uncategorized.


Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) continues to pose significant risks to both backyard and commercial poultry operations in the United States. As poultry enthusiasts, it’s important to do everything we can to control it.

Recognizing the Signs

Recognizing the symptoms of HPAI is crucial for early detection and containment. Symptoms can vary but commonly include

  • Sudden death without clinical signs
  • Loss of appetite
  • Purple discoloration of the wattles, comb, or legs
  • Swelling of the head, comb, and wattles
  • Decreased egg production or abnormal eggs
  • Nasal discharge, coughing, and/or sneezing
  • Diarrhea
  • Lack of coordination

If you notice any of these signs in your flock, it’s essential to act swiftly and seek veterinary assistance.

Preventive Measures

Prevention is key to minimizing the risk of HPAI outbreaks. Here are some recommended measures to protect your flock:

  • Biosecurity Practices: Implement strict biosecurity measures to prevent the introduction and spread of disease. This includes controlling access to your property, disinfecting equipment and footwear, and isolating new birds before introducing them to your flock.
  • Relationship with an Avian or Poultry Vet: While there is no specific treatment for HPAI available for backyard poultry, a poultry veterinarian can help you determine the best strategy for your flock
  • Monitoring and Surveillance: Stay vigilant and monitor your flock regularly for any signs of illness. Report any suspicious symptoms to your veterinarian or local animal health authorities promptly.
  • Education and Awareness: Educate yourself and others in your community about HPAI and the importance of biosecurity measures. By raising awareness, we can work together to prevent the spread of this disease.

Resources for Information and Assistance

To learn more about protecting your flock from avian influenza, consider checking out the following resources:

Advice from a Vet: How to Protect Your Flock from Avian Influenza – This insightful post offers practical advice from two poultry veterinarians on safeguarding your poultry against avian influenza.

USDA Avian Influenza Information – The USDA provides comprehensive information on avian influenza, including symptoms, preventive measures, and treatment options.

As poultry enthusiasts and responsible stewards of our flocks, it’s our duty to remain vigilant and proactive in the fight against HPAI. By staying informed, implementing robust biosecurity measures, and working together as a community, we can help protect our poultry populations and ensure the health and well-being of both backyard and commercial flocks. Let’s continue to keep our flocks safe and secure.

2 May

Basic Backyard Chicken Keeping at Roselle Public Library

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Are you thinking about bringing the charm of chicken companions into your backyard? Or maybe you’re already a seasoned chicken keeper seeking to finesse your flock care? Whether you’re a curious novice or a seasoned pro, join us for an informative class at the Roselle Public Library on May 18, 2024, where we’ll explore the ins and outs of basic backyard chicken keeping.

Date: May 18, 2024

Time: 11 am ––  1 pm

Location: Roselle Public Library, 40 South Park Street Roselle, IL 60172

Led by passionate poultry aficionado Jennifer Murtoff, this session is tailored for those considering embarking on the delightful journey of chicken keeping, as well as those already with feathers in their cap. From navigating local regulations to selecting the perfect birds and nurturing them into happy, healthy hens, we’ve got you covered.

Here’s a sampling of what you’ll learn:

  • Local Laws and Regulations: Understand the legalities surrounding backyard chicken keeping in your area. We’ll provide tips on how to find and interpret local ordinances to ensure you’re on the right side of the law.
  • Choosing and Raising Chicks: Delve into the exciting world of chick selection, care, and upbringing. Learn how to choose the right breed for your needs and provide essential care to raise them into robust, egg-laying wonders.
  • Caring for Adult Birds: From coop design and maintenance to dietary needs and health checks, discover the essential aspects of caring for adult chickens. We’ll discuss best practices for keeping your feathered friends happy and thriving year-round.

This class is free, but registration is suggested. To register for the class and for more information, visit the Roselle Public Library class page here. 

Whether you’re dreaming of fresh eggs on your breakfast table or simply seeking the joys of feathered companionship, join us for Basic Backyard Chicken Keeping! We look forward to seeing you there!