After you've made the decision to own backyard chickens, picking a breed or breeds is probably going to be your next step. Jeremiah and I spent hours upon hours poring over books and catalogs so we would better understand the breed profiles and find a good fit for our family and our geographical region. There are hundreds of breeds to choose from, and within the breeds themselves, there are ranges of colors and patterns. And all this just to get a fresh egg? Yes, God knows we all like Continue Reading
Can You Eat Duck Eggs?
Do people eat duck eggs for breakfast? Can you bake with them? Why yes! But how do they measure up to hen eggs? This post will answer all those questions. We have a few Khaki Campbell ducks here at Zephyr Hill and they lay a decent amount of eggs, although their output can't rival the chickens. Soon after discovering our first duck eggs, we immediately wondered "Can you eat these things?" It's funny how the mind works against you, though. Even though duck eggs are nearly identical to Continue Reading
Backyard Chickens Gone Wild
A friend just dropped off a few Polish Crested hens at our farm the other day. Once you see a face like this, you never forget it! They suffer a bit for their beauty, though, because the colorful crest that adorns its head can limit its vision, resulting in an easily frightened little bird. If you are adding this variety to an existing flock, don't be surprised if they are dominated by your other birds. Historical records from the 1600's trace the Polish Crested to the Netherlands; you can Continue Reading
How to Name Your Farm or Ranch: 200+ Ideas!
We bought a lovely little farm on five acres years ago and wanted to find a suitable name for it. But after coming up empty with internet searches, I resorted to my own independent research and inspiration. Zephyr Hill Farm was born. Life and literature are filled with delightful names: Green Gables....Sunnybrook Farm.....Ponderosa Ranch.....Misselthwaite Manor..... If they can do it, so can you! But don't expect inspiration to come in an instant. Allow plenty of time for your imagination Continue Reading