University of Maryland Extension

Small Flock Production

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

New Fact Sheet:  "Identifying and Preventing Poultry Predators in the Mid-Atlantic Region"

Putting All You Eggs in One Basket - a YouTube course for Backyard Flocks!

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLJntkUbeMh47AFsVcpH4SabU89g8uUDYB...

CORYZA INFORMATION:  Infectious Coryza - FAQs  

  

(Photos by J. Moyle)

Interested in owning a small flock? Do you already have a small flock? Raising a backyard flock can be very rewarding for the entire family. There is an activity for every member of the family to participate in when raising poultry. Small flock owners raise birds for several different reasons:

Meat

  • Shows & exhibitions
  • Eggs
  • 4-H
  • Game birds
  • Business 
  • Pets
  • Poultry clubs
  • Fun  

There are many different species of poultry that can be raised - from chickens to ostriches! The species you decide to raise will depend on the type of production you want to be involved with as well as your own personal preference. Poultry is usually classified into three categories: 1) egg layers, 2) meat-type, and 3) dual purpose. As a producer, select the characteristic that is most important for your production purposes. There are a large number of breeds of birds so your choices on types of birds to raise are endless!

See Publications Tab above for more Resources for Backyard/Small Flock

Backyard Farming                                            

Raising your own food can be a rewarding experience. It provides physical activity and a source of fresh food. Raising plants and animals in order to produce food is a great activity for the entire family and can be excellent for mental health. To assist small producers, novice livestock owners and gardeners and those thinking of trying their hands at backyard farming, the University of Maryland Extension has put together a series of educational webinars on various livestock and gardening topics.  

 

 

Section: 
Maryland Poultry
We embody the University's land-grant mission with a commitment to eliminate hunger, preserve our natural resources, improve quality of life, and empower the next generation through world-class education.
Maintained by the IET Department of the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources. © 2020. Web Accessibility

University programs, activities, and facilities are available to all without regard to race, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, age, national origin, political affiliation, physical or mental disability, religion, protected veteran status, genetic information, personal appearance, or any other legally protected class. If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate in any event or activity, please contact your local University of Maryland Extension Office.