Category: Animals

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Where I Keep Baby Chicks

Find out where I keep my baby chicks so you can build your own chicken brooder as well. Tips from Liz Chandler at PurlsAndPixels.

Stopping at the farm store when baby chicks are in season means I’ll be unable to resist temptation. I brought home four new baby chickens this weekend. But, I already had a home for them. Here, I’ll show you where I keep baby chicks until they are big enough to live in the main coop. Hopefully, you’ll get some ideas to build your own chicken brooder.

Where I Raise Baby Chicks

Rabbit Hutch

Yes, we are talking about baby chickens. So why am I bringing up rabbit hutches? Well, my chicks go into a rabbit hutch to grow up. I used to do what many of you may do; raise the babies in a bucket in my bathtub. That got smelly fast! So, I came up with an alternative solution that has worked well for my last three groups of chicks.

Now, I set a rabbit hutch on the floor of my chicken coop. This allows the babies to get to know the big girls and roosters in a safe space. The weave of the bars is small enough that the babies can’t get through the holes and the hens can’t get into the chicks’ space. Believe it or not, hens will kill baby chicks so it is important to keep them separated.

Another useful thing about a rabbit hutch is that the kit I bought comes with a feeder; one less thing to pick out! The rabbit feeders do have a mesh bottom, which allows chick crumbles to fall out. This is not good! So I took a piece of cardboard, cut it to size, and lined the bottom of the feeder first. This does the trick to keep the baby chicken food inside the rabbit feeder.

You can get the same hutch I have from Amazon. I did not fully assemble mine, leaving the legs and tray off the bottom. But if you have some extra time, assembling the hutch completely would work just as well.

The links on this page are Amazon Affiliate Links.

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Rabbit Hutch Complete Kit – Easy to Assemble Housing, Feeder, & Water Bottle Kit

by Pet Lodge

Find it on Amazon

Excelsior Pads

The floor of a rabbit hutch is not safe for delicate baby chick legs, though. To keep them from hurting themselves, I lay out excelsior pads as flooring. These pads come in squares are made of fine wood strands that have been woven together to create a soft, squishy mat. The babies don’t try to eat the flooring like they do with hay, so it lasts longer. They are also much less messy than wood shavings. The excelsior pads are easy to pick up and throw away once they’re too dirty to stay. (I also line my hens’ nesting boxes with excelsior pads. They’re pretty handy!)

Floor

Nest Box Pads for Chicken Nesting Boxes – 13 x 13 Pads Made in USA from Sustainably Sourced Aspen Excelsior

by the Pecking Order Store

Find it on Amazon

Heater

To keep the babies alive, it is very, very important to get them a heat source. If hatched naturally, a mama chicken would still be sitting on chicks well after they are hatched. Baby chickens cannot produce enough body heat to stay alive on their own. Many people get their chicks a heat lamp, but this poses a huge fire risk. I love using brooder plates instead. These little plastic trays warm up just enough to keep the babies comfy, but I’ve never had any worries that they will catch on fire while I am sleeping. Plus, the chicks can go under the plate when they are cold and leave if they get hot. It makes me feel better that they’re not trapped in a bucket under a hot lamp.

Heat
Thermo Chicken Brooder, Brooder Heater for Chicks

by K&H Pet Products

Find it on Amazon

Waterer

There are tons of choices for water containers for little chicklets. I have a simple hanging poultry waterer for my chicks like the one shown below. I hang it on the roof of the rabbit hutch with a carabiner clip and it seems to work well for me.

Water
Plastic Poultry Waterer | Durable Watering Container | Hanging Chicken Waterer No Waste | 1.5 Quart Plastic Poultry Waterer | Durable Watering Container | Hanging Chicken Waterer No Waste | 1.5 Quart

by Double-Tuf®

Find it on Amazon
Stainless Steel Carabiner Spring Snap Hook

by sprookber

Find it on Amazon

Chick Feed

When you pick up those baby chicks, you’ll need to grab a bag of “Chick Starter” crumbles for them to eat. You will have about a million brands and types to choose among. But, from what I have seen, the brands offer roughly the same product with two main choices: medicated and unmedicated. What type you choose will be up to you. Medicated feed helps prevent bad bacteria from growing in a baby chick’s digestive system. But this also may prevent good bacteria from growing there, as well. I think your personal preference should win out on this choice.

Food
Non-Medicated Starter Crumble Feed for Chicks & Ducklings

by Manna Pro

Find it on Amazon
Chick Starter Grower – Medicated Chick Feed Crumble for Young Chickens

by Manna Pro 

Find it on Amazon

I am so glad I already had my chick brooder set up when I made my impulse purchase. If you haven’t, I hope this helps you get started raising your new chicks up to be the best hens ever!

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Keeping Bears Out of the Chicken Coop

Keeping bears out of the chicken coop Liz Chandler PurlsAndPixels.

Essential Steps to Protect Your Flock in Bear Country

Living in bear country means being the guardian of your chicken coop in a land where bears might mistake it for an all-you-can-eat buffet. Bear-proofing your coop isn’t just about protecting your chickens; it’s also about ensuring that our furry neighbors don’t end up enjoying an unintended feast.

Keeping bears out of the chicken coop Liz Chandler PurlsAndPixels.

Understanding Bear Behavior

First things first, let’s delve into the bear psyche. Bears are not food critics; they’re opportunists. They have an uncanny ability to sniff out a chicken dinner and might consider your coop a Michelin-starred establishment if given the chance.

Keep Temptations Out of Reach

Alright, now it’s time to clean up the yard. Remove any chicken delicacies that might entice bears. Store feed securely in bear-proof containers, because your chickens aren’t the only critters that enjoy corn and grains. A hungry bear will happily snack on your chicken feed, then search for some protein to go with his side dish. It’s best not to rely on “bear-proof” containers; a clever bear can pop these open with the flick of one claw. Instead, keeping feed in a sturdy shed or garage is a good way to keep it out of reach.

A bear’s claw can easily pierce the top of a “bear-proof” feed bucket, allowing it to unscrew the lid and feast.

Fortify the Fortress

Keeping bears out of the chicken coop Liz Chandler PurlsAndPixels.

Your coop should resemble Fort Knox, but with more clucking. Construct it with materials sturdy enough to withstand a bear’s curiosity. Remember, bears are like the Houdinis of the animal kingdom; they’ll try every trick in the book to crack into your coop.

When it comes to locks, bear-resistant is the name of the game. Bears have a knack for figuring out puzzles, so opt for locks and latches that would give even Sherlock Holmes a run for his money.

Regularly inspect your coop to ensure it remains a fortress against bear infiltration. Remember, bears have a lot of time on their paws and are persistent problem-solvers.

Keeping bears out of the chicken coop Liz Chandler PurlsAndPixels.

Your First Line of Defense: Fencing

Keeping bears out of the chicken coop Liz Chandler PurlsAndPixels.

Install fencing that even the most ambitious bear would think twice about crossing. Think electric fencing or a fence so formidable it could double as a set for a medieval castle. Bears might be strong, but they’re not fans of unpleasant surprises.

If you find a particularly stubborn bear is undeterred by a little zap, here is a tip I learned from a retired Forest Service Wildlife Officer. He told me to try wrapping a strip of raw bacon around the electric fence; when the bear tries to grab a snack, it will get a zap that should deter it from coming back. Just make sure to turn off the electricity before you wrap the bacon, and turn it back on when you’re done.

Lights, Alarms, and Other Bear-Be-Gone Gadgets

Bright lights and sudden loud noises: the bear’s version of an unexpected pop quiz. Set up motion-activated deterrents that make bears feel like they stumbled into a surprise party they weren’t invited to.

To create a bear-unfriendly surprise party, motion-activated deterrents could mimic a carnival gone haywire in the woods. Picture strobe lights flashing vividly, casting disorienting shadows amidst the trees. Accompanying these dazzling lights, an array of loud, dissonant noises erupts—a cacophony of honks, bells, and perhaps even snippets of human chatter or music, jolting the bears out of their peaceful reverie. These deterrents, strategically placed and activated by motion sensors, would make the bears feel like they stumbled upon a chaotic celebration they definitely weren’t invited to.

From the bear’s perspective, these unusual sights and sounds disrupt their usual routine, creating an environment that feels unfamiliar, unpredictable, and thoroughly unwelcoming. It’s the forest equivalent of walking into a surprise party where you’d much rather have stayed home—a sensory overload that normally encourages a swift retreat back to the peace and quiet of the untouched woods.

Man’s Best Friend: The Canine Guardians

Keeping bears out of the chicken coop Liz Chandler PurlsAndPixels.

When it comes to bear deterrence, our four-legged friends often steal the show. A well-trained dog can be an invaluable asset in keeping bears at bay. Bears are wary of dogs and are less likely to approach an area where they sense the presence of these vigilant guardians. Consider introducing a dog to your coop-defense team – a furry, barking sentry that doubles as a loyal companion.

However, training is key; not every dog is automatically a bear-chasing expert. Choose breeds known for their protective instincts and train them to safely deter, not directly engage, these formidable visitors. A dog’s bark might just be the final piece of the puzzle in creating a bear-proof fortress for your chickens. Be sure to socialize your pups well with their new chicken friends, or you will have an entirely different predator problem on your hands.

Community Bear Watch

Keeping bears out of the chicken coop Liz Chandler PurlsAndPixels.

Spread the word! Let your neighbors in on the secrets of bear-proofing. Sharing tips might just prevent your neighborhood from turning into a bear picnic area.

Unusual Bears

If you find the bear in your neighborhood is not deterred by these tricks, call your local animal control or wildlife specialist. They’ll have more tips and might even want to relocate very stubborn or aggressive bears.

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Knitting in the Sticks

Knitting in the sticks by Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

How Country Living Wove Its Way into My Practical Knitting Adventures

Life in the countryside isn’t just about picturesque landscapes; it’s also about how my knitting needles have adapted to thrive in the great outdoors. Let’s unravel the influence that knitting in the sticks (yes, pun intended 😉) has had on my own crafting adventures.

Spinning a Yarn: Just Me, the Mountains, and the Trees

Let me tell you the tale of how my knitting has evolved since I moved back to my small, Colorado hometown. With less than 2000 people in town and lots of State and National Forest to wander around, I meet more deer and turkeys than I do people. And, thank goodness for the space! Nature and country-living have, without a doubt, inspired my knits.

Wild turkey in the pinon forest photo by Liz Chandler @PurlsAnd Pixels. All Rights Reserved.

Yarn Adventures: Nature’s Color Palette

Living in the boonies means my yarn choices are a bit like picking berries – I go for the richest hues, found right outside my door. Whether it’s the muddy browns after a rainy day, the vibrant greens dancing in the trees, or the blue hues of the Rocky Mountain sky, my yarn basket mimics the countryside’s color spectrum.

Knitting in the sticks photo by Liz Chandler @PurlsAnd Pixels. All Rights Reserved.

Weather-Proof Knits: Seasons Got Style

Surviving the rural Colorado climate means knitting for all seasons. When winter hits, I’m like a knitting bear in hibernation, creating thick, cozy accessories that could keep a snowman toasty. Come spring, my knitting switches to “practical mode” with functional home goods, like hand towels and washcloths.

Knitting in the Sticks by Liz Chandler @PurlsAnd Pixels. All Rights Reserved.

Rural living also means limited choices. When the nearest mall is two hours away, fashion trends tend to fall behind. (We were still wearing those low-rise hip-hugging jeans well into the 2010s 🤫). That’s why I stick with classic, minimalist knitting designs that can survive changes in trends.

Farmyard Fiber Finds: Local Yarn Heroes

Let’s talk sheepish secrets! Living near farms means I’ve got access to some real woolly wonders. I snag local sheep’s fleece and alpaca wool fibers whenever I can. Craft fairs, art shows, and small-town festivals are filled with hidden fuzzy-gems. And trust me, these local fibers know how to keep you warm!

Fluffy Alpaca photo by Liz Chandler @PurlsAnd Pixels. All Rights Reserved.

Practical Patterns: Hardworking Hobbies

I’ve mastered rural traditions in knitting that are as practical as a good ol’ farmer’s handshake. Classic stitches and Fair Isle designs – they aren’t just pretty; they’re like the Swiss Army knives of knitting, ready for anything mountain life throws my way.

See the Wide-Brim Hat Pattern

Tranquility: Peace Amidst the Pines and Purls

Here in my forest, a countryside symphony of chirping birds calm and entertain. As I weave together a new knitting project, songbirds whistle and hawks screech. Woodpeckers drum, while ravens provide a throaty chortle. Little Steller’s Jays mimic the other’s songs. The opus echoes down my little canyon when they awake. It’s the best sound therapy I can think of: simply soaking in the tranquility of the piñon forest.

Red Tailed Hawk Colorado Skies photo by Liz Chandler @PurlsAnd Pixels. All Rights Reserved.
Songbirds in the oak brush photo by Liz Chandler @PurlsAnd Pixels. All Rights Reserved.
Steller's Jay in front of a Full Moon photo by Liz Chandler @PurlsAnd Pixels. All Rights Reserved.

Knitting in the Sticks

Living in the sticks has added a practical twist to my knitting endeavors. From yarn hues inspired by nature’s whimsy to patterns that could handle a rural rodeo, my knitting journey is a playful dance with the practical, backwoods charm. So, here’s to needles clicking, sheep frolicking, and country living inspiring every purl and knit in my stash!

Knitting in the sticks photo by Liz Chandler @PurlsAnd Pixels. All Rights Reserved.
Knitting in the Sticks: Colorado Knitting inspiration, photo by Liz Chandler @PurlsAnd Pixels. All Rights Reserved.

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Wildlife Tales from My Colorado Craft Haven

Look, a mule deer. Colorado wildlife knitting outside with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Where Knitting Meets Critters and Gardens Host Gossip Sessions

So, picture this: Southwest Colorado, where my knitting needles and gardening trowels mingle with the locals – the wildlife! From my crafting corner, I’ve got a front-row seat to nature’s sitcom, and let me tell you, it’s both hilarious and awe inspiring.

Hummingbird High-Speed Chase

Colorado has the best hummingbirds. Squirrel spying on the garden. Colorado wildlife knitting outside with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Ever tried knitting while hummingbirds zip around? It’s like a NASCAR race with wings! These speedsters inspire me to pick vibrant yarn colors, because, let’s face it, life’s too short for dull colors when hummingbirds are around.

Squirrel Shenanigans and Cheeky Chipmunks

Squirrel spying on the garden. Colorado wildlife knitting outside with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Gardening with squirrels and chipmunks around is a bit like playing hide-and-seek. They eye my veggies, I try to protect ’em. It’s a constant game of “Who’s got the best tricks?” Their antics remind me to knit resilient stitches, just in case they decide to get crafty with my knitting basket.

A silly chipmunk tries to drive a Tonka Truck through my garden. Colorado wildlife knitting outside with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Deer Drama Queen

As twilight sets in, the deer emerge, looking all majestic until they nibble on my carefully tended plants! They’re the garden divas, strutting in for a snack. But hey, their elegance sometimes sneaks into my knitting patterns – subtle and graceful, just like those sneaky but graceful nibblers.

Mamma mule deer and her twin fawns looking for food. Colorado wildlife knitting outside with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Butterfly Makeovers

A caterpillar snacks on dill in the garden. Colorado wildlife knitting outside with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

From caterpillar chaos to butterfly beauty, the garden’s got its own makeover show! It’s like witnessing a craft project in fast-forward. Their transformations nudge me to experiment with new knitting patterns – after all, change is a beautiful thing, right?

A yellow butterfly in flight to a fruit tree blossom. Colorado wildlife knitting outside with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.
A yellow butterfly lands on a fruit tree blossom. Colorado wildlife knitting outside with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Songbird Karaoke Nights

Wild Colorado Songbird observing the lettuce in my garden. Wild turkeys love to peck at the garden. Colorado wildlife knitting outside with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

These songbirds make my gardening soundtrack! It’s a full-on karaoke session out there. Their tunes fuel my knitting rhythm. Who knew a knitting session could double as an open mic night for nature’s finest crooners? And what’s extra-exciting in my neck of the woods is to hear the Steller’s Jays imitate the local hawks. Sometimes I hear a hawk scream and look up to see this fellow. The little stinker does it to clear the garden of other birds that might be competing for food. They hear a hawk and flee, while the Jay feasts happily, knowing the birds of prey are not on the attack.

Steller's Jays can imitate hawks and other sounds. Colorado wildlife knitting outside with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.
A hawk scratches his face, taking a break. Wild turkeys love to peck at the garden. Colorado wildlife knitting outside with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Wild Turkey Troublemakers

Wild turkeys love to peck at the garden. Colorado wildlife knitting outside with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Now, speaking of wild birds, I often run into the most beautiful flock of wild turkeys while knitting and gardening outside. They are adorable and so fun to watch. But they do love a good garden snack, just like anyone else. Do I share? Usually. They’re too fun to run off.

Wild turkeys love to peck at the garden. Colorado wildlife knitting outside with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Bumbling Bees

Lets not forget the most important of the garden creatures to visit while I’m clicking my knitting needles. Both honey and bumble bees are both vital to the garden’s survival and to my knitting bliss. Listen to the sweet soft buzzing while you weave together your newest knitting project. Your mind will thank you for the tranquility.

Bumble bees pollinate snap dragons. Colorado wildlife knitting outside with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.
Bumble bees pollinate snap dragons. Colorado wildlife knitting outside with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Don’t Forget to Look Up

Those knitting stitches do keep your eyes focused. But don’t forget to take a break and look up every now and then. Otherwise you might miss spotting some really amazing wildlife.

Don't forget to look up, or you might miss the wildlife.Colorado wildlife knitting outside with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

In Southwest Colorado, my knitting and gardening adventures unfold amidst the quirkiest cast of characters – the local wildlife! Their shenanigans and charm sneak into my crafting choices, adding a touch of nature’s comedy to my cozy craft haven.

Join Liz Chandler knitting in her Colorado mountain haven. Garden, grow, and learn to knit at purlsandpixels.com.

Knit along with me and be sure you follow me on Instagram: that’s where I share my best nature and knitting photos.

Let’s be friends! @PurlsAndPixels on Instagram.