The Farming Diaries

Eggs are one of the biggest rewards of poultry keeping. But what happens when your hens begin turning against their own produce? One of the most frustrating challenges poultry farmers face is egg eating . You head to the coop expecting a basket full of fresh eggs, only to find broken shells and sticky nests. This habit, once started, can spread quickly through the flock. That’s why it is important for every poultry farmer to understand why chickens eat their eggs and how to stop it before it becomes a serious problem. In this article, we’ll cover the major reasons behind egg eating, signs to watch out for, and proven solutions you can use to protect your flock and maximize egg production. 🥚 Why Do Chickens Eat Their Eggs? 1. Nutritional Deficiencies The most common reason chickens eat eggs is lack of calcium and protein . Hens need calcium to produce strong eggshells, and if it’s missing in their diet, they will instinctively seek it out by pecking at eggs. Protein deficiency ca...

Raising poultry is not only about feeding, watering, and caring for the birds – it also involves making responsible decisions at the end of their production cycle. Slaughtering is a sensitive stage that requires careful handling, both to ensure animal welfare and to guarantee food safety for consumers. Humane slaughter is about minimizing pain and distress for birds, while food safety is about protecting the quality of meat and preventing the spread of diseases. In this article, we’ll explore why humane slaughter matters, how it can be done properly, and the key food safety practices every poultry farmer should follow. Why Humane Slaughter Matters Humane slaughter means treating poultry with dignity and ensuring that the killing process is quick, clean, and painless. This is not only an ethical responsibility but also a practical one. Birds that are handled roughly or stressed before slaughter often produce lower-quality meat due to bruising, broken bones, or stress-induced toxins....

 Discover the truth about poultry farming in Kenya. Learn common myths, success tips, and profitable strategies for raising kienyeji, layers, and broilers. Introduction Poultry farming in Kenya has become one of the most reliable agribusiness opportunities . With growing demand for affordable protein and steady markets, rearing chickens—whether kienyeji, layers, or broilers—offers farmers a chance to earn consistent income. Yet, despite its potential, many beginners fall victim to poultry farming myths that lead to poor decisions. In this article, we’ll explore the realities of poultry farming in Kenya , debunk common myths, and share proven strategies for success. 1. Types of Poultry Farming in Kenya Before starting, it’s important to choose the right type of poultry venture: Broiler Farming : Broilers are fast-growing chickens raised for meat. They mature in 5–6 weeks, making them ideal for quick returns. Layer Farming : Layers are hens kept for egg production. Wi...

Healthy eyes are a sign of a healthy flock. When a chicken suddenly develops swollen or closed eyes, many farmers may dismiss it as tiredness or a minor issue. However, eye problems in poultry are often early warning signs of serious health conditions that can spread quickly if not addressed. Knowing how to recognize, treat, and prevent swollen eyes is essential for every poultry keeper who wants to maintain a productive flock. In this article, we will explore the causes, symptoms, treatment options, and preventive measures for dealing with swollen or closed eyes in chickens. Why Eye Health Matters in Poultry The eyes of a chicken play a vital role in its daily survival. Chickens rely heavily on eyesight for: Finding food and water Identifying threats and predators Interacting with other flock members Navigating their environment When an eye problem arises, it not only affects the comfort of the bird but can also reduce feeding efficiency, increase stress, and ulti...