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The Ultimate Backyard Bird Feeding Setup (Feeder + Food + Placement for Maximum Activity) by Mike Allway, Director - Wild Bird Seed at Kalmbach Feeds If you want more birds in your backyard, it takes more than simply putting out a feeder. The best bird feeding systems help birds feel safe, find food easily, and return consistently throughout the year. When the setup is working well, you’ll usually notice more activity, more visiting species, and more consistent feeding patterns. Starting with reliable wild bird food, thoughtful feeder placement, and a few small adjustments can make a noticeable difference in how birds respond to...

Summer brings longer days, increased activity, and plenty of opportunities for backyard flocks to thrive. However, as temperatures climb, chickens can quickly become stressed by the heat. Excessive heat can impact egg production, feed intake, and overall flock health. By taking a few proactive steps, you can help your birds stay comfortable, productive, and healthy throughout the hottest months of the year. Recognizing Heat Stress in Chickens Unlike humans, chickens cannot sweat to cool themselves down. Instead, they regulate body temperature by panting and holding their wings away from their bodies. When temperatures rise, it's important to watch for signs...

As temperatures rise, proper hydration becomes one of the most important parts of summer animal care. Horses and livestock rely heavily on water to regulate body temperature, support digestion, and maintain overall health. During hot weather, dehydration and heat stress can happen quickly if animals don’t have enough access to clean, fresh water. Here are some important hydration tips to help keep your animals healthy and comfortable throughout the summer months. Understand How Much Water Animals Need Water intake increases significantly during hot weather. The amount varies depending on species, size, activity level, and temperature. On average: Horses may drink...

Nitrate Poisoning: What Livestock Producers Need to Know Submitted by: Gilbert Barrett   As we move through the growing season, livestock producers acrossNortheast Georgia and the Southeast should remain aware of the risk of nitratepoisoning in both grazed and harvested forages. While nitrate accumulation is oftenassociated with drought-stressed crops, several common forage species can developdangerous nitrate levels under a variety of growing conditions. Forages Most Commonly Associated with Nitrate AccumulationSeveral warm-season annual grasses are particularly prone to accumulating nitrates,including:SorghumSudangrassSorghum-Sudangrass HybridsJohnsongrassPearl MilletCrabgrassHowever, producers should not overlook perennial forages. Under certain conditions,nitrate levels can also become elevated in:Tall FescueBermudagrassAnnual RyegrassSmall Grains such as...

As pastures green up and temperatures rise, it’s important to reevaluate your livestock’s feed regimen. Whether you're raising cattle, goats, horses, chickens, or other farm animals, spring brings changes in forage availability, energy needs, and breeding cycles that should be reflected in your feed strategy. Here’s a quick guide to help you keep your animals healthy and productive this season: Cattle & Goats Grazing is in, hay is out – As pastures return, gradually transition livestock from hay to fresh forage to avoid digestive upset. Minerals matter – Provide free-choice mineral supplements to balance what fresh pasture may lack, especially...