Archive for March, 2009
Turkeys for Everyone
March 11, 2009 — by Jane WangerskyBirds, Farming
While thinking about the question of urban chickens (and the danger of urban coyotes), I came across an interesting book Starting Right with Turkeys by G.T. Klein.
It was published in 1972, based on an earlier edition from 1946, and ultimately goes back to The “Have-More” Plan, a 1940s back-to-the-land manual by Ed and Carolyn Robinson.
The Robinsons believed everybody could raise their own poultry, fruit, vegetables, and even goats, and this book says, “Yes, you can successfully raise turkeys in your backyard.”
But if you think it’s just like raising chickens, G.T....
Choose Your First Pet
March 10, 2009 — by BBlockCats, Dogs, Pet Adoption
Dogs and cats make great pets! Choosing one is a very big decision for you and your family and not to be made lightly, as it will be a huge responsibility. Both dogs and cats need time, patience, work, and money. They need your care daily, no matter how busy you and your family might be. Evaluate your lifestyle, and see if this is the right time to adopt or purchase a pet. Sure, puppies and kittens are cute, but they grow into adult animals. You have to remember that you still have to take the time and effort to... Coyotes — Can’t Live with ‘em, But They Can Live with Us
March 3, 2009 — by Jane WangerskyGeneral Animals, Mammals
I used to think it would be handy to keep some chickens in the backyard – just for the eggs – but two things held me back: the local laws and the coyotes. Well, now the laws have been changed, but the coyotes aren’t going away.
In fact, it looks as if coyotes will never go away. They’re more widespread on this continent now than they were in the 19th century. Once mainly a western animal, they now live from coast to coast, down into Mexico and Guatemala, and up almost – not quite – to the Arctic. Coyotes have expanded...