The belief that some roosters are predisposed to aggression solely due to having large testes is misleading. Research shows that a wide range of environmental factors, including behavior, diet, weight, living space, position within the flock, and access to hens, significantly influence testicular size beyond their genetic baseline. While aggressive behavior often correlates with environmental conditions that promote higher testicular growth, large testicular size should ultimately be viewed as an effect of those environmental conditions, rather than a direct cause of aggression.
Author Archives: Hayley Harbaugh
Tonic Immobility in Rabbits: Major Stressor or No Big Deal?
Cradling and handing rabbits on their backs sparks fierce debate due to overall stress concerns. Recent research shows that the use of gently-induced tonic immobility (TI) reduces stress indicators, with rabbits in TI showing lower cortisol and glucose levels than those handled upright. Thus, proper dorsal restraint has been clinically shown to minimize stress during handling.
Homemade Frappuccino with Cinnamon Sugar and Caramel Drizzle
Delicious, homemade Frappuccino recipe using milk, cinnamon sugar, vanilla, and caramel syrup!
Goat Care 101: The Ultimate Guide to Shelter, Feeding, and General Health
Goats are versatile animals ideal for small farms, offering easily manageable sources of milk, meat, and fiber production. Proper care such as providing secure shelters, using ample bedding, maintaining a good nutrition plan through hay, grain, and quality loose minerals, and keeping up on regular hoof trimming and vaccinations will prevent many of the common issues you may run into when raising them. With good management, goats can be low-maintenance once established, making them a rewarding addition to any homestead.
Purchasing Quality Goats: Tips From a Seasoned Breeder
Purchasing quality goats is crucial to your farm’s success!
High-quality animals that are bred with production, longevity, and health in mind are much cheaper and more productive over the course of their lifetime than ones that aren’t.
As a result, finding the right goats in the beginning will prevent many potential setbacks and stress for years to come.
By using these expert tips, you can ensure you’re choosing goats that will accomplish your goals – without emptying your wallet!
Delicious Turkey Soup Recipe Using Leftovers
This simple recipe outlines how to use your leftovers to make a delicious soup. With ingredients like leftover turkey, vegetables such as carrots, onions, and celery, and various spices and broth – this homemade recipe can’t be beat!
Stray Dogs: An Expensive Problem for Flock Owners!
Stray dogs can cause significant damage to livestock, with the financial impact far exceeding the perceived value of the animals they kill. From the initial cost of chicks, to unseen feed expenses, and lost potential profit over the lifespan of the animal – the impact can be catastrophic!
Homemade Slow Cooker Rabbit Cacciatore Recipe
Try our original recipe for homemade slow cooker rabbit cacciatore!
Dairy Goat Breeds – For Dummies!
“Does breed even matter?” If you’re looking to start your dairy goat journey, chances are you’re riddled with questions over which goats are best for your homestead. Never fear! Check out this comparison of some of the most popular dairy breeds – such as the Alpine, Saanen, Sable, La Mancha, Toggenburg, Nubian, Oberhasli, and Nigerian Dwarf – as we highlight their average milk production, fat, and protein content, as well as their breed characteristics, origin, and suitability for different climates.
Cost Disparities Between Local & Commercial Farms
“Fresh chicken… for THAT price?” With customers feeling overcharged and small farmers yearning to be understood, join me on a deep dive into why commercial farms can get away with charging so much less for their products.
Hayyy Farms 