Small Flock

Confinement and yarding is when fencing is used to confine poultry to a smaller area than what they would normally range. This can also include housing to prohibit birds from venturing outside.

There are special requirements for raising birds for different production purposes. The basic requirements are the same with minor changes made for raising layers, meat birds, waterfowl, or ratites.

A footbath is a very simple form of biosecurity that helps prevent the potential spread of disease. Organisms have the potential to survive for several days or weeks in the dirt stuck to the bottom of your shoes. Footbaths can eliminate these organisms.

Controlling traffic on and around the farm can present quite a challenge to flock owners. Yet once implemented, it dramatically reduces the threat of disease. Traffic may include vehicles, people and other animals (such as pets) that move around on the farm. Communicating with personnel who come onto the property about biosecurity measures that have been established is essential.

Isolation is used to help prevent the spread of disease. Confinement is the main way to isolate and separate your birds. Many people worry that isolating their birds will be difficult. Isolation is when a bird(s) is separated away from the rest of the flock. It is simple and can be accomplished several ways.

Resources for implementing and managing biosecurity procedures on backyard chicken farms.

Just like humans, birds are subject to disease, injury, stress, and genetic abnormalities than can result in death. Disposal is a normal part of raising poultry. But, when the time arises, do you know how to properly dispose of dead birds?

Recordkeeping is important. Records tell an owner or manager where the business/operation has been and the direction in which it is going. Records show the strength and weaknesses of the poultry operation. They provide useful insight to financial stability for your flock. If there are any shortcomings, records will show where adjustments can be made. Along with showing where adjustments can be made and being a good reference tool, there are several other purposes of recordkeeping. 

When buying birds, caution should be exercised. New birds should be bought only from reputable locations. Avoid auctions, flea markets, and imported poultry from "dockside sales". Reputable locations that sell birds may include hatcheries and breeders who participate in USDA's National Improvement Plan.

There are many different species of poultry that you can raise. The species you decide to raise will depend on the type of production you want to be involved with as well as personal preference.