The Coop with Meyer Hatchery

Let’s take a Meyer Moment to talk about frozen eggs. Throughout the winter months, as temperatures continue to drop, you’ll also find your egg production reducing. Getting every last precious egg from the coop to the house is of importance. But what happens when your eggs start to freeze, or worse yet, crack?

Let’s take a Meyer Moment to talk about winter watering. In Meyer Moment episode 26 we talked about the various styles of heated waterers. But for first time flock owners navigating cold conditions or winter elements, you may still be struggling to water your flock. Here’s a few tips to help you this winter!

Today we’re taking a look at Beginner Breeds, as part of our Best Of Series. We dedicate one episode per month to this series, covering the very best of each month's topic. For the month of January, we’re going to dive into the best breeds for those beginning their chicken keeping endeavor. But don’t worry poultry pros, we have something for everyone here, as we plan to also cover different p...

Let’s take a Meyer Moment to talk about the parameters that define heat versus cold hardy breeds. It’s a question we often receive, as customers seek out the magic temperature that deems a breed hardy for their climate. However, you may be surprised to know, there is no hard number to follow, rather, a variety of characteristics to consider. 

From Meyer Hatchery it’s The Coop - where we talk all things poultry in hopes of inspiring crazy chicken keepers and educating future flock owners. I’m your host Kendra and on the show today we share a place where you can find expert instruction, friendly encouragement, and a welcoming group of people who are committed to helping you gain the know-how and problem-solving skills you’re seeking.  Wh...

Let’s take a Meyer Moment, to take a look back. As the season winds down, we’ll be taking the holiday season off to enjoy time with family but also finish planning the 2021 podcast season. With that, we share some bloopers along with a look back at our first year on The Coop Podcast. 

Today we’re here to talk about what’s new for next year! Catalogs are starting to arrive in mailboxes across the United States, so we thought what better time to start revealing all the new and exciting changes happening at Meyer Hatchery for 2021. In this episode you'll:  Experience  Meyer Hatchery's 2021 Catalog Catch Meyer Hatchery's New Offerings Hear About Our New 2021 Breeds I...

Let’s take a Meyer Moment to talk about how to convince your spouse you need more chickens! For many of you listening, chickens may be on your urban backyard or homesteading wishlist, but how do you convince your spouse you need chickens and more of them?

Today, we’ve reached the end of our, A Year With Chickens Series. We dedicate one episode per month to this series, covering what to expect when raising a chicken in that particular month. For the month of December, we're taking a look at year 2 and beyond. We’ll discuss everything you need to know about your chickens aging out after their first year, to selective traits for breeding and what...

Let’s take a Meyer Moment, to talk about determining hatch rates! The new year is quickly approaching with new availability, so we thought we’d share how Meyer Hatchery determines the number of chicks for each hatch date.

Let’s take a Meyer Moment to talk about Thanksgiving! November is a popular time to talk turkey. In addition to chickens and ducks, turkeys are a popular choice for backyard enthusiasts, homesteaders, and even large farming operations.  Meyer Hatchery offers white and bronze broad-breasted turkeys along with a variety of heritage breeds from Bourbon Red to Royal Palm.  To celebrate Thanksgiving in...

Today we’re here to spread some holiday cheer! That’s right, whether you’re ready or not the holiday season is approaching. If you caught our episode 30 on things they don’t tell you about raising chickens, then you already know chicken-themed gifts are in your near future. So to help you and your family out, Meyer Hatchery has curated a Holiday Gift Guide. Whether you’re looking for something for...

Let’s take a Meyer Moment to talk about boredom busters for your flock! Every chicken keeper wants their flock to be happy and healthy. If you’re experiencing changing temperatures, shortened hours of daylight, or just a schedule change where you can’t let your flock out as often, you may want to consider adding some activities to their coop. Bored chickens can lead to feather picking, bullying, c...

Let’s take a Meyer Moment to talk about frostbite in your flock! If you live in an area with extreme winter temperatures, your flock may be at risk. Chickens are susceptible to frostbite on their combs, wattles, and toes. It’s important to choose breeds that are hardy in cold climates and take preventative measures. But rest assured, even the most prepared flock owner can get caught off guard when...

Today, we're discussing cold weather care as part of our A Year With Chickens Series. We dedicate one episode per month to this series, covering what to expect when raising a chicken in that particular month. For the month of November, we're taking a look at cold weather care. We’ll discuss everything you need to know about raising your flock in the coldest of seasons from proper ventila...

Let’s take a Meyer Moment to talk about winter feed! The cold is setting in and many of our northernmost states are already seeing snow. If this is your first time raising chickens, you may be caught off guard by just how much feed your flock will go through in the winter months. We’ve compiled a few tips to help you prepare in keeping your flock well-fed and healthy this winter season. 

Let’s take a Meyer Moment to talk Trick or Treats for your flock during this spooky season! As you prepare for a frightful weekend trick or treating, we’ve compiled a few things you may want to stay clear of when it comes to treating your favorite flock members. 

Today, I’m joined by industry leaders, Jenna Gregorich, Bird Health Programs Manager for the Ohio Poultry Association. OPA is a non-profit statewide trade organization that found its start in 1948 representing more than 600 Ohio egg, chicken and turkey farmers. You may be familiar with OPA through their Ohio Egg Marketing Program or Ohio Turkey Council as they work to exemplify the voice of hundre...

Let’s take a Meyer Moment to talk about hen pecking! Pecking is a normal chicken behavior that allows birds to explore their surroundings. But if your hens cross from curious to aggressive pecking, you may have a bigger issue on your hands. It’s important to identify the cause then make changes to ensure the well being of your flock. 

Let’s take a Meyer Moment to talk about heated waters! As the temperature continues to plummet it’s time to start thinking about your watering set-up. Frozen waterers, hoses, and thirsty birds can make for a miserable winter. However, with a little planning now, you can set yourself up for a successful season.  Each waterer we discuss today will be linked in the show notes below! 

Today, we're discussing predators as part of our A Year With Chickens Series. We dedicate one episode per month to this series, covering what to expect when raising a chicken in that particular month. For the month of October, we're taking a look at predators. We’ll discuss everything from what types of predators to watch for, how to identify them, and how to best protect your flock. In...

Let’s take a Meyer Moment to talk about the deep litter method! As winter approaches, you may be considering using deep litter, in your coop for waste management. If done properly, it can create less frequent coop cleanouts and fabulous compost, ready for your garden or flower beds.  So how do you begin using the deep litter method?

Let’s take a Meyer Moment to talk about the seasonal shift! The autumnal equinox has arrived, meaning fall has officially begun for the Northern Hemisphere. As the season shifts, the sun will begin to rise later and nightfall will approach sooner. Now is the time to layer up in a cozy sweater and hot mug of coffee for your morning chores. Most believe the fall foliage and amount of eggs your hens...

This year we’ve seen a lot of new chicken keepers join the club. Now occasionally you can find me in emails and chats for Meyer Hatchery, and Jeff on the phones. If you’ve had the luxury to chat with us live, we may have warned you of a few of these items already. But just so we’re clear, here are 10 things they don’t tell you about raising chickens. Important Links: Friendliest Rooster - blog Chi...

Let’s take a Meyer Moment, to wake up and talk about Better Breakfast Day, happening September 26th! So how did this day come to be? Better Breakfast day originated, during WWI as the United States encouraged citizens, to eat a better breakfast. Then the  Cereal Institute soon began promoting, Better Breakfast Month for the first time in September.  With our counters overflowing with eggs, we can’...