Meyer Moments Episodes

Let’s take a Meyer Moment to talk about heritage versus hybrid. As you begin your search for new flock additions you may come across terminology such as heritage and hybrid, but what’s the difference? And most importantly what’s best for you?

Let’s take a Meyer Moment to talk about storing eggs. Spring has sprung for many chicken owners and you may be noticing an increase in egg production. Eggs for breakfast, lunch, and dinner become part of your weekly menu, but as we all know, you can only eat so many eggs. So how do you store the abundance of eggs your flock is producing?

Let’s take a Meyer Moment to talk about single hatchlings. There are many factors that can affect the outcome of a hatch and there may be a time when there is only a single hatchling. Poultry is known for its flock tendencies. So in the best interest of a lone bird, there are some special considerations for their health and happiness.

Let’s take a Meyer Moment to talk about egg hatching myths. As many chicken breeds as there are in the world, there are just as many theories about hatching eggs. Hatching techniques can vary between incubator types and any experienced hatcher will tell you that every hatch experience is unique. For that, the promise of more eggs, and more females are usually the goal of any hatch. But with all of the information out there, it can be hard to determine what is actually true or just a myth.

Let’s take a Meyer Moment to talk about blue genetics. Chicken genetics are truly fascinating and complex. You don’t have to be an experienced breeder or geneticist to know that chicken feathers are some of nature’s most beautiful handiwork. Blue is one most sought-after color of chickens here at Meyer Hatchery and for good reason.

Let’s take a Meyer Moment to talk about preparing incubators for hatching. Hatching eggs is an awe-inspiring process as you create optimal conditions for life to develop and hatch. Mother hens instinctively know those optimal conditions, but education and experience are needed for us to successfully hatch. The very first step of incubation is, of course, an incubator!

Let’s take a Meyer Moment to talk about Meyer Hatchery’s Hatch-Along. Meyer Hatchery hosts an annual Hatch-Along in March, to share our knowledge of incubating and the joy of freshly hatched spring chicks! We also encourage you to join in on the fun and set eggs with us.

Let’s take a Meyer Moment to talk about the United States Postal Service Embargo. An embargo is a government order that restricts commerce or the exchange of specific goods. These are usually created as a result of unfavorable political or economical circumstances. Last week a USPS Embargo was put into place restricting the transportation of live animals due to the winter storm that swept the nation. The Postal Service has since extended the suspension. We hope the embargo will be resolved this ...

Let’s take a Meyer Moment to talk about waterfowl imprinting. If you have ever seen adorable ducklings following their mother in a perfect line, or a chick peeking from underneath its mother, you have witnessed the phenomenon of imprinting. Imprinting is the natural process of an animal becoming bonded to its caretaker. Whether this caretaker is its own species or not, is what makes imprinting so amazing.

Let’s take a Meyer Moment to talk about red chicken breeds. In the spirit of Valentine's Day, today we will explore history and facts of some of the red breeds offered by Meyer Hatchery. Chicken colors range almost the full spectrum of the rainbow, but there is something quintessential about a red chicken.

Let’s take a Meyer Moment to talk about raising tame chickens. Many folks get chickens with the idea of delicious fresh eggs but are soon charmed with their pet-like nature. Having docile and tame chickens is especially important for families with small children and those wanting chicken companionship. Here are our best tips for raising tame chickens!

Let’s take a Meyer Moment to talk about January being National Soup Month. It’s the perfect time of year for soup, right after the bustling holiday season and just as the cold really starts to settle in. There’s nothing like a warm bowl of soup to find comfort in. Soups are not only great for warming you up, but they're often filled with nutrients, minerals, and fats. A bowl of soup can help replenish lost energy after shoveling snow, chopping wood, or caring for your flock. So what makes soup,...

Let’s take a Meyer Moment to talk about frozen eggs. Throughout the winter months, as temperatures continue to drop, you’ll also find your egg production reducing. Getting every last precious egg from the coop to the house is of importance. But what happens when your eggs start to freeze, or worse yet, crack?

Let’s take a Meyer Moment to talk about winter watering. In Meyer Moment episode 26 we talked about the various styles of heated waterers. But for first time flock owners navigating cold conditions or winter elements, you may still be struggling to water your flock. Here’s a few tips to help you this winter!

Let’s take a Meyer Moment to talk about the parameters that define heat versus cold hardy breeds. It’s a question we often receive, as customers seek out the magic temperature that deems a breed hardy for their climate. However, you may be surprised to know, there is no hard number to follow, rather, a variety of characteristics to consider.

Let’s take a Meyer Moment, to take a look back. As the season winds down, we’ll be taking the holiday season off to enjoy time with family but also finish planning the 2021 podcast season. With that, we share some bloopers along with a look back at our first year on The Coop Podcast.

Let’s take a Meyer Moment to talk about how to convince your spouse you need more chickens! For many of you listening, chickens may be on your urban backyard or homesteading wishlist, but how do you convince your spouse you need chickens and more of them?

Let’s take a Meyer Moment, to talk about determining hatch rates! The new year is quickly approaching with new availability, so we thought we’d share how Meyer Hatchery determines the number of chicks for each hatch date.

Let’s take a Meyer Moment to talk about Thanksgiving! November is a popular time to talk turkey. In addition to chickens and ducks, turkeys are a popular choice for backyard enthusiasts, homesteaders, and even large farming operations. Meyer Hatchery offers white and bronze broad-breasted turkeys along with a variety of heritage breeds from Bourbon Red to Royal Palm. To celebrate Thanksgiving in our own way, we’re sharing some fun facts you may not have known about this special holiday.

Let’s take a Meyer Moment to talk about boredom busters for your flock! Every chicken keeper wants their flock to be happy and healthy. If you’re experiencing changing temperatures, shortened hours of daylight, or just a schedule change where you can’t let your flock out as often, you may want to consider adding some activities to their coop. Bored chickens can lead to feather picking, bullying, cannibalism, and egg-eating. Curb those unwanted habits with these boredom buster ideas!

Let’s take a Meyer Moment to talk about frostbite in your flock! If you live in an area with extreme winter temperatures, your flock may be at risk. Chickens are susceptible to frostbite on their combs, wattles, and toes. It’s important to choose breeds that are hardy in cold climates and take preventative measures. But rest assured, even the most prepared flock owner can get caught off guard when temperatures dip. Here are a few tips to help you deal with frostbite this season.

Let’s take a Meyer Moment to talk about winter feed! The cold is setting in and many of our northernmost states are already seeing snow. If this is your first time raising chickens, you may be caught off guard by just how much feed your flock will go through in the winter months. We’ve compiled a few tips to help you prepare in keeping your flock well-fed and healthy this winter season.

Let’s take a Meyer Moment to talk Trick or Treats for your flock during this spooky season! As you prepare for a frightful weekend trick or treating, we’ve compiled a few things you may want to stay clear of when it comes to treating your favorite flock members.

Let’s take a Meyer Moment to talk about hen pecking! Pecking is a normal chicken behavior that allows birds to explore their surroundings. But if your hens cross from curious to aggressive pecking, you may have a bigger issue on your hands. It’s important to identify the cause then make changes to ensure the well being of your flock.