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Chickens and outside access | |
New England is known for cold and snowy winters. When spring finally arrives, the doors to our barns are opened, and our hens are allowed outside. In the early spring and late fall, they scratch around in our winter gardens, which are large screened-in porches. In the summer months, we let them out to pasture in large grassy pens where they can hunt for insects and take dust baths.
Outdoor access for our hens is important, but we want to reassure you that our hens are safe from predators and disease from wild birds. We also protect the soil and water around our farm.
We protect our hens by not allowing them outside during the following conditions:
- During cold and inclement weather
- When ground predators such as fox and coyote are seen in the immediate area.
- When large flocks of small birds like starlings or grackles roost on the barn roofs or near the outdoor access area. These birds often carry fowl mites, which will multiply rapidly through any flock of hens. The National Organic Program allows only a few remedies like diatomaceous earth to help rid a flock of mites. Most, however, are not fully effective. Preventing mites is the best course of action.
- During migratory bird season. Our farm is in the Connecticut River basin, a popular flyway for migratory birds. Waterfowl like Canada Geese are probably the scariest threat to our hens. While waterfowl may appear healthy, these birds are reservoirs for Avian Influenza or bird flu. If our hens come into contact with these birds or any material from them, it's very likely that our entire farm would become infected with Avian Influenza. For more information about Canada Geese and Avian Influenza, please visit the Centers for Disease Control Website
We protect the environment around the farm by not allowing the hens outside when the ground is soggy. During those times, the hens can destroy the grass and vegetation, promoting silt runoff.
Frequently asked questions
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