Sometimes, problems come up in your flock. These resources may help you determine a problem and understand how to address it.

NC State Extension resources

This article from N.C. Cooperative Extension covers all aspects of starting and managing a backyard or garden flock of chickens in North Carolina.

This resource can be viewed online or downloaded for free.

Other resources

This article from Virginia Cooperative Extension includes a list of common causes of cannibalism in poultry. The article includes ways to prevent and respond to cannibalism.

This resource is a direct download link (PDF); updates cannot be guaranteed.

Causes for Hens Eating Their Eggs

This very brief article from Mississippi State University Extension lists common causes, and responses, to hens eating their eggs.

This resource can be viewed online or downloaded for free.

Causes of Pecking and Cannibalism

This very brief article from Mississippi State University Extension lists common causes, and responses, to pecking and cannibalism.

This resource can be viewed online or downloaded for free.

Causes of Poor Feathering

This very brief article from Mississippi State University Extension lists reasons for, and corrections to, feather problems.

This resource can be viewed online or downloaded for free.

Leg and Foot Disorders in Domestic Fowl
2902-1098 (APSC-149NP)

This article from Virginia Cooperative Extension describes and illustrates common leg and foot issues in poultry. The article includes color images.

This resource can be downloaded for free.

Prevention of Egg Eating
2902-1096

This article from Virginia Cooperative Extension gives four causes, with responses, for egg eating.

This resource can be viewed online or downloaded for free.

Why Do Hens Stop Laying Eggs?

This very brief article from Mississippi State University explains why hens might stop laying eggs.

This resource can be viewed online or downloaded for free.

Why Have My Hens Stopped Laying?
2902-1097

This article from Virginia Cooperative Extension gives five common reasons hens may stop laying eggs. Other considerations are included.

This resource can be viewed online or downloaded for free.

If you have questions about brooding chicks for your backyard flock, contact an Area Specialized Agent for poultry or your county's livestock agent.