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If you raise backyard chickens, you may notice something missing from the nesting boxes once fall arrives: eggs! A hen that reliably produced eggs throughout spring and summer may suddenly begin laying less frequently, or even stop for a period of time. While it can be concerning for newer chicken keepers, a seasonal decline in egg production is often completely normal. Shorter days, molting, colder temperatures, age, nutrition, and other factors can all influence how frequently a hen lays. Understanding these seasonal changes can help you provide the care your flock needs throughout fall and winter. Shorter Days Mean Fewer...

Cool mornings, changing leaves, and shorter days are all signs that colder weather is on the way. While the first frost may not mean winter has officially arrived, it’s an important reminder for livestock owners to start preparing animals, barns, pastures, and supplies for the months ahead. Cattle, horses, sheep, goats, and other livestock are naturally equipped to handle changing temperatures, but good management can make the transition easier. October is an ideal time to tackle a few important tasks before freezing temperatures become routine. Use this fall livestock care checklist to get started. Evaluate Body Condition Animals may require...

As summer begins to wind down, September is a great time to start preparing your horse for the cooler months ahead. The transition from warm summer weather to chilly fall temperatures can bring changes to your horse's nutrition, pasture, grooming routine, and overall care. A little preparation now can help your horse stay comfortable, healthy, and ready for the changing seasons. Here are some important fall horse care tips to keep in mind. 1. Gradually Adjust Your Horse's Diet As pasture growth slows down in the fall, your horse may have less access to fresh grass. This is a good...

Summer brings longer days and growing pastures, but it also brings rising temperatures that can take a toll on livestock. Heat stress doesn't just make animals uncomfortable—it can affect feed intake, growth, milk production, reproduction, and overall health. Recognizing the signs early and taking steps to keep animals cool can help them stay healthy and productive throughout the hottest months of the year. Whether you care for cattle, horses, goats, sheep, pigs, poultry, or other livestock, understanding how to manage summer heat is an important part of seasonal animal care. What Is Heat Stress? Heat stress occurs when an animal's...

Summer brings longer days, increased activity, and plenty of opportunities for backyard flocks to thrive. However, as temperatures climb, chickens can quickly become stressed by the heat. Excessive heat can impact egg production, feed intake, and overall flock health. By taking a few proactive steps, you can help your birds stay comfortable, productive, and healthy throughout the hottest months of the year. Recognizing Heat Stress in Chickens Unlike humans, chickens cannot sweat to cool themselves down. Instead, they regulate body temperature by panting and holding their wings away from their bodies. When temperatures rise, it's important to watch for signs...