Ah, the weather has cooled and now it’s time for Raising Chickens Through the Texas Fall! Just as we enjoy the cooler temperatures, so do our backyard chickens. With the intense stress of summer behind them, hens are often happier and more active. This is the perfect time to perform essential flock maintenance and prepare your coop for the coming winter, ensuring your chickens stay healthy and productive through the season.

Pre-Winter Health and Coop Prep

Before the first true cold front arrives, it’s wise to give your flock a thorough health check. Examine each bird for signs of mites and lice, which can thrive in the cozy environment of a coop. Pay close attention to their legs, feathers, and vent area. This is also an excellent opportunity to deep clean your coop. Remove all old bedding and replace it with a fresh, thick layer of absorbent material like pine shavings. Clean out feeders and waterers to prevent the spread of bacteria and ensure your flock has access to fresh food and water.

Managing Egg Production in Shorter Days

You might notice a slight increase in egg production as the milder weather reduces heat stress. However, as the days grow shorter, the decrease in natural daylight can signal a hen’s body to slow down or stop laying altogether. If you rely on a steady supply of eggs, you can counteract this by providing supplemental lighting. A simple light on a timer, set to provide about 14-16 hours of total light per day, can help maintain consistent egg production through the fall and winter months.

Protecting Your Flock from Predators

Fall is a time of increased activity for many predators. Raccoons, coyotes, and hawks become more bold as their natural food sources become scarcer. This makes it a critical time to reinforce your coop and run. Carefully inspect your coop for any holes, gaps, or weak spots. Ensure all latches are secure and predator-proof. Covering your run with hardware cloth or poultry netting can protect your flock from aerial threats and climbing predators. A little extra vigilance now can prevent a heartbreaking loss later.

Here at Arcola Feed, we have a lengthy history of raising backyard flocks, and with that comes the knowledge and supplies to do so. Feel free to stop in and pick up everything you need while Raising Chickens Through the Texas Fall.