Organic pollen patties are protein supplements typically given to overwintering colonies to promote brood production in late winter and early spring. Made of brewer’s yeast, sugar syrup, and pollen powder. Used responsibly, as they accelerate brood rearing that could otherwise …
Chickens rely on forage, vegetables and insects as their primary nutrition source, and commercial chicken feed provides a solid basis for their nutrition needs. Do not feed chickens avocado (poisonous pit and peel), raw green potatoes, uncooked beans, chocolate or …
Chickens require food, water (assuming free access), bedding and regular deworming as well as occasional treats like weeds, perennial greens or even worms. Many farmers and homesteaders opt to make their own chicken feed at home to save money on …
At key times during the year when honey and pollen stores in colonies are low or weather conditions prevent foraging, feeding supplemental sugar syrup is vital to ensure they have enough carbohydrates for energy needs as well as proteins for …
When raising chickens, selecting the appropriate feed is paramount to their wellbeing and happiness. Look for organic or non-GMO options when possible. Consider how you will supplement their diet with scraps – this may affect protein and calcium levels in …
Beekeepers relying on pollen patties as an aid to brood raising when natural sources of forage are scarce are increasingly turning to these artificial supplements to aid their brood rearing efforts. But are these supplemental feeds effective? We conducted numerous …
Honey bees require 100 to 200 grams of protein every week, some of which comes from their hive’s brood food supply. Unfortunately, even this source isn’t always reliable; for example, Varroa mites and Nosema ceranae microsporidia can steal protein from …
Winter can be an especially hard time for your flock, with their bodies expending more energy to stay warm while their immune systems weakening as a result. Treats and food scraps can provide your flock with essential nutrition during the …
Many beekeepers begin feeding their colonies sugar syrup as early as September to ensure that they have sufficient stores to get through winter. Feeding in the fall should be completed using an inner feeder, to reduce robbing risks. When handling …
Chickens need a balance of nutrients in their diet in order to remain healthy and produce eggs. Carbohydrates provide instantaneous energy while proteins and fats provide more calories. Chicken feed comes in several forms – pellets, crumbles or mash – …