Do Chickens Eat Ticks and Spiders?

Have you ever wondered if chickens eat ticks and spiders? The short answer is yes. In fact, before we got chickens, I did a lot of research on this subject because we had a problem with black widow spiders.

Domestic Chicken Predators: Do Dogs and Cats Kill Chickens?

We worry about wild animals killing our chickens, but what about dogs and cats? Do dogs and cats kill chickens? Simply put, yes. But there's more to the story and it varies depending on the culprit. Cats are not top of the list for killing adult chickens, but dogs are another matter. Dog problems can happen fast, be devastating and sometimes pit neighbor against neighbor. It's important for backyard flock owners to know the laws around dogs killing chickens and how to make sure your birds stay safe.

Move Over Cleo...Here Comes Buff

Yesterday I was petting our cat, Cleo. She was in her favorite spot; the top of the slide on the backyard play set. Our buff orpington, affectionately named Buff, was at my feet cooing to me and pecking at my shoes. More than any of our other chickens, Buff is like a big dog who lays bonus eggs. She loves to sit in your lap to get petted or be held like a baby.

I guess Buff was in desperate need for attention. So rather than wait her turn, she did something I've never seen her do before. She jumped up onto the stairs and peeked over the top of the platform at Cleo. It was almost like she was asking Cleo for permission to come on up. When Cleo didn't object, Buff hopped the rest of the way up and then settled in to get petted too.

From now on, I think Cleo will have to share her petting time with Buff!

Wildlife Wednesdays: A Lucky Present

Almost two years ago, my daughter and I found a beautiful white and gray tom cat hanging out in our yard. He was friendly and accepted our gift of food, but I was hoping he wouldn't make our house his new home. After all, we already had two great outdoor cats. Lucky, as he's called, had other plans and quickly settled into life at our house. I, of course, fell in love with him and am so glad he joined us.

Fast forward to yesterday afternoon. I was on our deck enjoying lunch and 73 degree weather in March. My two outdoor girl cats were basking next to me, with Lucky nowhere in sight. Then, he came bounding onto the deck with a snake hanging out of his mouth. He walked right over to me and dropped it. I immediately noticed the snake wasn't hurt and put a bucket over it so I could get something to hold it.

It turns out that my kitty present, was a beautiful common garter snake that had emerged from winter looking for some food. I kept the snake until my kids came home. They loved touching it and holding it. Then we let it go in my garden under generous leaf cover and lots of foliage.

I think this snake and my cat should share a name; Lucky!