Howcast
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Whether you want to keep a few chickens or start herding cattle, this Howcast animal farming video series will get you started.
Instructions Step 1: Get your chicks Order your chicks from a hatchery, where they may have been hatched from an incubator. There are many hatcheries online and shipping usually takes place between February and September. Step 2: Get a brooder Make or buy a brooder — a container where the chicks live and keep warm. …
Instructions Step 1: Check the size Select a coop large enough for your chickens. Step 2: Check ventilation Choose a coop that will keep the chickens dry, and that provides adequate amounts of light and ventilation. Step 3: Check for a run Choose a coop with an outside run for the birds. The run should …
Instructions Step 1: Dig a test hole in your yard Dig a test hole as deep as you plan to make your pond. Then fill it with water from a garden hose and see how much water drains to determine the seepage quality of the soil. TIP: Backyard fish ponds are typically 5 to 15 …
Instructions Step 1: Build a base Build a 6-by-3-foot base for the coop by constructing a frame. Screw 2 3-foot 2-by-4 boards across the ends of 2 parallel 8-foot 2-by-4s, about a foot in from the ends. TIP: Mount the outside roost to the support on the front wall, attaching the other end to the …
Instructions Step 1: Determine nutritional needs Determine the specific nutritional needs of your cattle. TIP: Test the forage The U.S. National Research Council tabulates nutritional requirements for beef cattle. Steers, heifers, and calves all have different requirements. Step 2: Test the forage Have a forage test performed to determine the nutritional value of the available …
Instructions : Never attempt to brand a cow if you are not well-trained in the technique. Step 1: Heat the iron Heat your branding iron in a wood fire until the end of the iron is ash-colored. TIP: Do not use a forge or a coal fire to heat the iron. These may make the …
Instructions Step 1: Check for brands for sale Check with your state brand inspector’s office or local governing agency to see if they keep a list of brands for sale. Older brands are often sold with ranches or by themselves. Step 2: Choose a distinctive brand Make sure the brand you are considering is distinctive …
Instructions Step 1: Check market prices Inform yourself about market prices before you attend the auction. Plan on attending a couple of other auctions before you start bidding. Step 2: Attend the auction Arrive at the auction early so you can inspect any livestock you may be interested in. Step 3: Inspect the cattle Inspect …
Instructions Step 1: Choose a breed Choose a chicken breed that meets your needs. TIP: Keep in mind cold weather tolerance, chick-rearing characteristics, egg color, breed personality, and rate of egg-laying. Step 2: Check the eyes Look for a bird with bright eyes, free of discharge. Step 3: Check the beak Make sure the bird’s …
Instructions Step 1: Count your chickens Decide how many chickens you want. Most hens in full production will lay an egg every day. If you have too many chickens you may not be able to use all the eggs. TIP: Acquire your chickens from a reputable supplier to ensure the health of the birds. Step …
Instructions Step 1: Feed cow Feed the cow in the early morning with a grain mixture or hay. Step 2: Set up stool Set your stool on the right side of the cow’s udder. A one-legged stool lets you swivel to be close to the udder. TIP: Wash and dry your hands before milking, or …
