Chicken Coop Available


CONTACT KELLY CALABRESE by Facebook Messenger or by email: kelly.calabrese@gmail.com

Kelly from Rogers Park is rehoming a coop. She says “The coop was in my backyard from a previous owner so I’m not sure how old it is. There were some abandoned eggs that I had to clear out so I think it was in use relatively recently. It is a little rough around the edges, especially the flower box in the back, but overall is quite adorable and I think it has some life left. It’s free if you can take it. The sooner the better but there’s no real deadline if there’s genuine interest and a plan.”

CONTACT KELLY CALABRESE by Facebook Messenger or by email: kelly.calabrese@gmail.com

Basic Backyard Chicken Keeping at Orland Park Public Library


Are you interested in starting your own backyard flock? Or maybe you already have a few feathered friends and want to expand your knowledge on their care? Join the Orland Park Public Library for Basic Backyard Chicken Keeping on Wednesday, November 6, 2024, from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm. This free workshop is perfect for anyone eager to dive into the world of chickens, whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to brush up on the basics.

Held at the Orland Park Public Library (14921 Ravinia Avenue, Orland Park, IL), this event will provide valuable insights on everything from understanding local regulations to tips for keeping your chickens happy and healthy at all stages of life.

Whether your goal is fresh eggs or simply the joy of caring for these delightful birds, this session will set you up with the tools you need to succeed with backyard chicken keeping.

Important Registration Information:

  • Registration is required, and each participant may only register for one spot per library card.
  • Multiple registrations associated with the same library card will be canceled to ensure fair access for all interested attendees.

Event Details:

  • Location: Orland Park Public Library, 14921 Ravinia Avenue, Orland Park, IL 60462
  • Date/Time: Wednesday, November 6, 2024, 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm
  • Cost: Free

This is a great opportunity to connect with an experienced chicken keeper, ask questions, and meet others in the community interested in sustainable, backyard agriculture. For more information, visit the library’s event page.

Don’t miss this chance to embark on your backyard chicken journey!

Hens in Bolingbrook seeking home BY SATURDAY, Oct. 12.


These birds have been rehomed. Thank you for your interest.

Villa Park Public Library


Join us at the Villa Park Public Library for my basic chicken keeping class. It’s for curious folks who are considering getting chickens as well as for those who already have chickens and want to learn more. Learn how to find local laws, choose and raise chicks, and care for adult birds. Come prepared to ask questions and meet a live chicken! I look forward to seeing you!

Registration: https://villapark.librarycalendar.com/event/basic-backyard-chicken-keeping-35768

Time: 5:00 to 7:00 PM

Date: September 26, 2024

Location: 305 S. Ardmore Ave, Villa Park, IL 60181

Straight-Run Chicks Looking for Home


Contact Suzanne at suzannebavichai@gmail.com or (847) 421-3865 or Sam at (773) 255-7341. 

From Suzanne: The kids hatched chicks in their 6th grade science class, and their teacher had a family emergency so we’re trying to help with rehoming six straight-run chicks (meaning there is a 50% chance of getting males). They would like them to go to good, no-kill homes. The birds have been hand raised and are quite tame. They think two are roosters. The family is in Evanston. 

The school’s kindergarten teacher also has an additional 5 chicks who are just shy of 3 weeks old and hopes to find good, no-kill homes for them. 

Contact Suzanne at suzannebavichai@gmail.com or (847) 421-3865 or Sam at (773) 255-7341.

Welcome Back to Nature!


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

Cute cochin bantam roo seeking home


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

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


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! 

Home to Roost Offering New Services


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.

HPAI Still a Concern in US Flocks


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.