We never would have considered owning chickens, however, to obtain our Demeter Certification we are required to have animals on our farm and considering we are surrounded by residential housing, cows and pigs were right out.
Why do we love our chickens? They give us fresh eggs and nothing compares to the taste and quality of eggs straight from our own flock that we can also share with our community. Plus, we have peace of mind knowing exactly how our chickens have been raised and fed. They are fascinating creatures to observe. Watching them scratch the ground, peck for bugs and interact with each other can be incredibly entertaining. We consider our birds to be farm workers since they help reduce pests in our fields as they hunt insects, worms and grubs. We have a mobile chicken coop that is moved around each summer to various orchards which help control insects that attack our fruit. Another benefit is their valuable fertilizer high in nutrients. It’s a sustainable way to enrich our soil and promote healthy plant growth. Chickens can be quite friendly, curious and enjoyable to spend time with. They can get to know their caregivers, and some are even quite affectionate.
Last winter after a devastating loss when a fox got into the chicken coop and killed almost half of our flock, we were determined to rebuild due to our love of these feathered creatures. We were a bit late getting our order in to the local chick breeder and all they had left was a variety called Azure Blue. Not familiar with that breed, we were delighted to hear they produce quality eggs with a unique blue shell. So, when you order eggs through our on-line store, you will get a beautiful brown and blue mix. As a result of so much demand, we have recently added 10 new hens to our flock. As their production increases, so will the amounts we post for sale. Check back frequently and give them a try.
Here is what you can find in our store this week:
Farm Fresh Eggs
Pears
Canning, Heirloom and Cherry Tomatoes
Eggplants
Radish
Garlic
Stir Fry Mix and Lettuce Mix
Kale, Collards and Swiss Chard
Hot and Sweet Peppers
White Turnip
Sugar Snap Peas
Carrots
Green Onions
Herbs and Honey
Ruth and Marc, <em>Rumar Farm</em>
