Small Flock

There are special requirements for raising birds for different production purposes. The basic requirements are the same with minor changes made for raising layers, meat birds, waterfowl, or ratites.

The main purpose of housing poultry is protection. For many species, having outside runs in addition to housing provides additional space needed for optimal performance. To protect your birds from predators while they are exploring the outside world, confine poultry with fencing and covered runs.

Housing should provide protection from the elements, predators, injury, and theft. There are several different housing options to choose from that come in almost any shape and size.

Chickens of all types use vocalizations to communicate with each other and express their needs. We can gain insight into chicken health, behavior, and overall welfare by understanding how and why chickens vocalize.

Chickens of all types use vocalizations to communicate with each other and express their needs. We can gain insight into chicken health, behavior, and overall welfare by understanding how and why chickens vocalize.

There are many different species of poultry that you can raise. The species you decide to raise will depend on the type of production you want to be involved with as well as personal preference.

A successful backyard flock requires sound animal care and management. Good animal care and management includes proper planning, careful management, a biosecurity (disease prevention) plan to control diseases, and a complete and balanced adequate feeding program.

This webpage is the production archives of the Women In Agriculture webinars.

State or federal inspection is not required if you are producing and processing less than 20,000 birds for meat annually and do not sell other than directly from the farm. You must register any poultry premises with the Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA) as part of their avian influenza control efforts. There are no fees for registering your premises unless you have laying hens in excess of 3,000 birds.

Maryland regulations for registering and exhibiting poultry at fairs or other shows.