News — feathered friends

Molting Chickens Guide: Why Chickens Molt and How to Support Them by Nancy Jefferson, Ph.D., Poultry Nutritionist, Kalmbach Feed Finding feathers scattered throughout the coop can catch any poultry keeper off guard. Fortunately, feather loss is often a normal part of a chicken's annual molt. During this time, hens replace old, worn feathers with healthy new plumage that helps insulate and protect them through the seasons. Molting also affects egg production and changes a hen's nutritional needs. Knowing what to expect can help you care for your flock during the molt and support hens as they prepare to return to laying. What is...

Avian Influenza in Chickens and Why Biosecurity is Your Best Defense by Nancy Jefferson, Ph.D.   -- Poultry Nutritionist, Kalmbach Feeds Biosecurity is the only effective defense against avian influenza. There are no feed or water additives that prevent or treat the virus, so strict prevention practices are essential to protect your flock of poultry. What is Avian Influenza? Avian Influenza (AI) has been a major concern in the poultry industry for a number of years.  There are two primary strains of avian influenza – low pathogenic (LPAI) and highly pathogenic (HPAI).  Birds infected with Low Pathogenic AI may become ill, but they...

Mixing Chickens, Ducks & Quail: Plan Your 2026 Flock Right BY:  Nancy Jefferson, Ph.D.  Poultry Nutritionist, Kalmbach Feeds  TLDR: Yes, chickens, ducks, and quail can live together successfully if you plan carefully. A healthy mixed flock of chickens, ducks, and quail is absolutely achievable with the right approach. Success comes from understanding how these species differ, planning housing and space that keeps everyone safe, and using feeding strategies that meet each bird’s nutritional needs. When social dynamics are managed well and nutrition is consistent, a mixed flock can thrive together comfortably and productively. Why Consider a Mixed Flock? Adding ducks and quail...

Supporting Chicken Egg Production Through Proper Nutrition Few things are more rewarding than gathering fresh eggs each morning when raising chickens. But if you've noticed a dip in your hens' laying or shell quality, you might wonder: Is my flock getting the nutrition they need? Veteran chicken owners know that egg production naturally has its ups and downs. Even with good care, birds sometimes face challenges during stress, molting, or seasonal changes. The key to steady, high-quality egg production isn't trial-and-error with supplements; it's providing a complete feed that already contains the right balance of vitamins and minerals. With carefully...

Tips and Tricks: How to Care for Goats in Cold Weather by Hattie Hartschuh   (Kalmbach Feed)  As temperatures begin to drop, winter preparation makes its way to the top of any herds(wo)man’s priority list. Providing your goats with adequate shelter and making sure that clean, fresh water is available is most important during freezing temperatures. Goats are very hardy and acclimate to cold weather as fall comes to an end, but here are some things that you can do to make wintertime easier for them. 4 Tips & Tricks for Goat-Keeping During Cold Weather Shelter Unless you live in the arctic, most livestock...