The Good Life Backyard

27/03/2025

How to rat-proof the coop‼️

Did you know, a pair of rats can produce up to 2,000 descendants per year? This means a couple of rats around your chicken coop can quickly lead to a rat infestation if it goes unchecked. They are known to be carriers of diseases such as fleas, mites, plague, and salmonella.

Rats are creatures of the night. If you’re seeing them during the day, you have a major problem.

Prevention is better than cure. So, of course, use good husbandry to keep your coop and run clean and your flock safe and healthy, but always be vigilant as well. No matter how tight a coop you run, don’t assume that you won’t have vermin, whether you live in the countryside or in the city.

The two main things in a chicken run which attract rats are chicken feed as well as chicken droppings. The more unwelcoming you can make your environment to them the more likely they are to move somewhere else.

Read on to find out how to rat proof the chicken coop 👇
https://www.thegoodlifebackyard.com.au/how-to-rat-proof-the-chicken-coop/

26/03/2025

Go check out the ABC Organic Gardener stand at Melbourne International Flower & Garden Show subscribe to their magazine and you’ll get a goodie bag including some of our top selling calci-protein blend! Your chooks will thank you 🐓💚

Are you coming to the Melbourne International Flower & Garden Show ? We're in a brand new spot near the fountain and will have some very special guests from Gardening Australia to answer all your questions! Today at 1pm we have Sophie Thomson creating an amazing hanging basket, tomorrow ask Costa Georgiadis your burning questions, on Friday it's Millie Ross' turn 🪴🌼

25/03/2025

🐔 You say “excuse me” when walking past your hens
🥚 You check the nesting box before your morning coffee
🌿 Your compost has more feathers than food scraps
👟 You’ve accepted that poop-covered shoes are a personality trait

25/03/2025

As autumn arrives and temperatures begin to drop, it's important to provide your chickens with extra nutrition to keep them healthy and productive. Our Porridge Pack is the perfect solution for the cooler months, offering a variety of nutritious options to support your flock's well-being. 🐔🍂

The Porridge Pack includes four varieties:

🥣 Immunity: Packed with vitamins and antioxidants to bolster your chickens' immune systems during seasonal changes
🥣 Protein: Provides essential proteins to support feather growth and maintain energy levels
🥣 Traditional: A classic blend of grains and herbs, offering a comforting and familiar meal
🥣 Insect: Rich in natural insect proteins, mimicking the foraging diet that chickens love

Each porridge is designed to be mixed with warm water, creating a hearty, warming meal that your chickens will relish on chilly autumn mornings. Not only do these porridges provide essential nutrients, but they also offer a comforting treat that can help maintain egg production and overall health during the cooler months.

Treat your flock to the wholesome goodness of our Porridge Pack this autumn, and keep them happy, healthy, and laying!

👇
https://www.thegoodlifebackyard.com.au/product/porridge-pack/

Protein Porridge is a hearty, nourishing meal to supplement your chook's’ daily diet & warm their tummies, whilst also boosting immunity.

24/03/2025

Autumn treats aren't just for us – your chickens deserve a seasonal treat too! Try this autumn-inspired DIY recipe to spoil your flock:

Ingredients:

🥚 ½ cup rolled oats
🍏 ½ cup finely chopped apples (remove seeds)
🎃 ¼ fresh pumpkin, peeled and finely chopped (or grated)
🍯 1 tablespoon honey
🍂 1 teaspoon cinnamon
🌰 ¼ cup crushed walnuts and/or sunflower seeds
🦗 ¼ cup of any dried insects you have on hand (if you don't have any, leave them out!)
🌱 For an extra boost, add some of our Superfood Blend to the mix for added vitamins and nutrients!

Instructions:

1. Peel and chop the fresh pumpkin into small pieces or grate it for easier mixing. Chop the apples finely and remove the seeds.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats, chopped apples, grated pumpkin, and cinnamon.
3. Drizzle the honey over the mixture and stir in the crushed walnuts, sunflower seeds and/or dried insects.
4. For an extra boost of nutrition, stir in a spoonful of our Superfood Blend.
5. Serve the mixture directly to your flock as a fun, nutritious autumn treat!

This is a fun, healthy treat to spoil your chickens with, but remember, it should not replace your regular feeding routine. Ensure they have a balanced diet for optimal health and egg production. 🐔💚

24/03/2025

Have you ever wondered what your chickens are trying to tell you? From clucks of contentment to the frantic squawking of distress, understanding your flock’s behaviour can make all the difference in providing better care and building a stronger bond.

In our latest blog post, we dive into the fascinating world of chicken communication. You'll learn to decode their vocalisations, body language, and more! Whether it’s their subtle body language or their distinct calls at feeding time, we’ll help you understand what your chickens are saying and how you can respond.

Curious to learn more? Click here to read the full post and start speaking “chicken” today👇
https://www.thegoodlifebackyard.com.au/what-your-chickens-are-trying-to-tell-you-how-to-speak-chicken/

24/03/2025

🌼 Nest Blend for Cosy Nests 🌸

As the cooler weather sets in, creating a comfortable, cosy environment for your chickens is more important than ever. 🍂 Nest Blend is specifically designed to support and maintain a healthy nesting environment, ensuring your hens have a peaceful space to lay their eggs. This all-natural blend is made from dried herbs, flowers, and plants like chamomile, lavender, peppermint, and rosemary – each chosen for their calming, anti-bacterial, and pest-repelling properties.

Not only does Nest Blend help reduce stress and discomfort for your hens, but it also promotes healthier egg-laying by providing a clean, relaxing environment. The added bonus? It’s naturally compostable, making it an eco-friendly choice for your chicken coop! 🌱

Here’s why Nest Blend is the perfect autumn addition to your chicken care routine:
- 🌸 Chamomile and lavender help calm your hens and naturally repel pests like lice and mites
- 🍃 Peppermint and rosemary work as natural insect repellents, keeping unwanted critters at bay
- 🌼 Lemon balm has antibacterial properties, supporting your hens’ digestive health
- 🍂 Mugwort encourages egg production, ensuring your flock stays productive

Give your hens the best autumn nest with Nest Blend! 🐓💚
https://www.thegoodlifebackyard.com.au/product/nesting-blend/

23/03/2025

What a week it’s been! We’ve had so much fun celebrating our roosters and learning all about these amazing feathered friends. From rooster care tips to fun facts, we hope you’ve enjoyed every moment of Rooster Week as much as we have! 💚

As we wrap up Rooster Week, we’d love to see YOUR roosters! Share a photo of your rooster in the comments and show us how he’s living his best life! Whether he's strutting around the yard, protecting his flock, or just enjoying some sunshine, we want to see it all!

Don’t forget to enter our Rooster Week Giveaway (check out our previous posts!) for a chance to win a Rooster Care Package full of awesome products to keep your rooster thriving! 🏆

Thank you for joining us this week – stay tuned for more exciting tips, products, and fun content to come. Until next time, give your rooster an extra treat and let him know he’s the star of the show!

22/03/2025

To wrap up Rooster Week, we’re giving away a Rooster Care Package!

Want to spoil your rooster with the best care products? Here's your chance to win a bundle that includes:

🚀 Rooster Fuel: Packed with essential nutrients to keep your rooster healthy and strong
💧 Automatic Waterer: Providing fresh, clean water with zero mess!
💪 Pecking Powder: Encourages a strong healthy rooster and keeps your him entertained

How to Enter:

❶ Follow us
❷ Tag a friend who loves chickens as much as you do
❸ Share your best rooster story in the comments below

The winner will be chosen randomly and announced next week. Don’t miss your chance to treat your rooster to the best care!

22/03/2025

To wrap up Rooster Week, we’re giving away a Rooster Care Package! 🎁🐔

Want to spoil your rooster with the best care products? Here's your chance to win a bundle that includes:

🚀 Rooster Fuel: Packed with essential nutrients to keep your rooster healthy and strong
💧 Automatic Waterer: Providing fresh, clean water with zero mess!
💪 Pecking Powder: Encourages healthy foraging and keeps your rooster entertained

How to Enter:

❶ Follow us

❷ Tag a friend who loves chickens as much as you do

❸ Share your best rooster story in the comments below

The winner will be chosen randomly and announced next week. Don’t miss your chance to treat your rooster to the best care!

22/03/2025

Time to test your rooster knowledge! 🐔💡

How much do you really know about your feathered friend? Take our fun quiz and find out!

❶ What is the primary purpose of a rooster's crowing?

A) To communicate with other roosters
B) To signal the start of the day
C) To warn of predators

❷ How many times a day does a rooster typically crow?

A) Once in the morning
B) Several times throughout the day
C) Only in the evening

❸ True or False: Roosters can see in colour.

❹ What does a rooster do when he spots a predator?

A) He runs away to protect himself
B) He warns the hens by crowing loudly
C) He fights the predator immediately

❺ What time of day does a rooster typically sleep?

A) Late at night
B) In the afternoon
C) Early evening

❻ How does a rooster protect his hens?

A) He stands between them and any potential threats
B) He chases after food first
C) He hides from danger

Answers:

❶ B) To signal the start of the day – Roosters crow at dawn to announce the new day, marking their territory.

❷ B) Several times throughout the day – Roosters can crow at any time, especially if they feel like claiming their territory or communicating with their flock.

❸ True! – Roosters have excellent vision, and like most birds, they can see a wide range of colours.

❹ B) He warns the hens by crowing loudly – Roosters will sound the alarm to alert the flock to danger.

❺ C) Early evening – Roosters, like most chickens, sleep once it gets dark, usually around dusk.

❻ A) He stands between them and any potential threats – A rooster will act as a guardian, positioning himself between danger and the hens.

22/03/2025

22/03/2025

Your rooster deserves the best, and we’ve got just the products to keep him happy, healthy, and strong! Check out our top rooster-approved essentials:

🚀 Rooster Fuel: Packed with essential nutrients, Rooster Fuel helps support your rooster’s energy, vitality, and overall well-being. Whether he’s leading the flock or keeping watch, this supplement ensures he stays strong and active.
- Boosts Vitality
- Promotes Health
- Easy to Serve in daily feed

💧 Automatic Waterer Range: Make sure your rooster stays hydrated with our Automatic Waterer range. These waterers are designed to provide a constant supply of clean, fresh water without the mess.
- Easy to Use
- Saves Time
- Helps keep water clean and free from debris

💪Pecking Powder: Keep your rooster strong and healthy with plenty of protein from our natural Pecking Powder! Packed with nutrients, it promotes healthy foraging, reduces boredom, and supports strong, active roosters.
- Provides protein for strong roosters
- Encourages natural foraging
- Keeps roosters and hens entertained

Let your rooster thrive with Pecking Powder, the perfect way to keep him healthy and busy!

Ensure your rooster is living his best life with Rooster Fuel, our Automatic Waterer Range and Pecking Powder – the essentials for a healthy and happy flock.

21/03/2025

Rooster Nighttime Routine❣️

It’s the end of the day, and while your hens are settling in for the night, your rooster has a different job. As the protector of the flock, does your rooster stay on high alert until the last hen is tucked in? Or does he settle in for the night too, ready to crow at dawn?

We’d love to hear about your rooster’s nighttime routine:

Does he keep watch over the flock, or does he head to bed like the hens?
How does your rooster position himself at night?
Does your rooster have a favourite roosting spot?

Please comment below 💚

20/03/2025

The Rooster’s Vital Role in the Flock 👑

A rooster is more than just the loud alarm clock of the backyard, he plays a crucial role in the dynamics of your flock! Here’s why having a rooster in your flock can make a big difference:

✔️ Protector and Guardian: Roosters are natural protectors. They keep a watchful eye on the flock, always alert for predators. When danger approaches, they will sound the alarm and position themselves between the hens and the threat to keep them safe. 🦅

✔️ Leader and Guide: A rooster helps maintain order in the flock. He leads the hens to food, directs them to safe spots, and encourages them to stay close. His presence provides structure and security, and he is often seen guiding the flock throughout the day.

✔️ Caregiver and Comforter: Roosters not only protect the hens but also offer care. They will often help tidy up their environment, lead hens to quiet, safe places for nesting, and stay close to any hen that might need extra attention, like a sick or injured one.

✔️ Flock Harmony: A healthy, confident rooster contributes to a balanced and peaceful flock. He helps reduce fighting, maintains a social order, and keeps the hens comfortable in their environment.

The rooster truly is the heart of the flock, creating a secure, structured, and well-maintained environment. Whether he’s guarding his ladies or showing them where to find their next meal, a rooster’s role is vital in ensuring your backyard poultry thrives.

Does your rooster play a key role in your flock? Tell us how he leads and protects your hens in the comments!

20/03/2025

Rooster fun facts!

19/03/2025

💡Rooster Care 101 🐓

Did you know that roosters thrive when they have plenty of space to roam and call their territory? It’s not just about keeping them in a pen, they need room to express their natural behaviours! A rooster who has enough space to explore, strut his stuff, and even practice his crowing skills is a happy, healthy rooster. 🌞

Here's how to make sure your rooster is living his best life in your backyard:

✔️ Space to Roam: Aim for at least 1 square metre per rooster, but the more room, the better! A spacious run will give him the freedom to explore, scratch, and stay active.
✔️ A Safe Shelter: While your rooster enjoys his outdoor time, he also needs a cozy, secure space to rest at night and escape from the elements.
✔️ Enrichment: Add some fun features like roosting perches, dust baths, or a few chicken toys to keep his days interesting and active. It’s all about keeping him engaged!

Also, consider whether your rooster has his own flock, is part of a bachelor squad, or if he's living solo. Roosters tend to be happier when they have some company, whether it's a few hens or even other roosters, as long as the social dynamics are managed well.

19/03/2025

After 12 months of empty egg shelves in supermarkets, thousands of people across Australia are looking for ways around the shortages.