There’s nothing quite like the excitement (and nerves) that come with kidding season. One minute, you’re anxiously checking the barn every few hours, and the next, you’re watching tiny wobbly legs take their first steps. It’s one of the most rewarding parts of keeping goats—but also one of the...
No matter how long you’ve been farming or homesteading, there’s always that one tool or piece of equipment you can’t imagine living without. Maybe it’s a trusty old wheelbarrow that’s seen better days but still gets the job done. Or that one water bucket that somehow never cracks, even in the...
If you’ve raised goats for a while, you know they have a special talent for getting into trouble. One minute they’re peacefully chewing cud, and the next they’re limping, coughing, or looking like they just don’t feel right. Goats may be tough little animals, but they sure can keep us on our...
Feeding time with goats can feel a little like opening the doors at a Black Friday sale. One minute everything is calm, the next it’s a mad dash with a lot of jostling, bleating, and wide-eyed excitement. Goats are smart, curious, and sometimes downright pushy when it comes to food, which makes...
More and more farmers and homesteaders are moving toward natural and organic methods when raising their animals. Whether it’s choosing organic feed, relying on herbal remedies, or creating low-stress environments, the goal is the same: healthier animals and a healthier farm ecosystem.
Some...
Llamas and alpacas often get grouped together, but anyone who’s spent time with them knows they’ve got very different personalities. Llamas are known for their bold, protective nature (and yes, their dramatic spit when they’re unhappy), while alpacas tend to be more gentle, shy, and prized for...
Keeping our animals safe is one of the biggest jobs on the homestead, and it often takes a good livestock guardian to make it possible. Some folks swear by dogs, while others rely on donkeys, llamas, or even clever setups with fencing and alarms. Each approach has its own unique advantages (and...
Animals add so much life to a homestead. They bring food, fiber, and sometimes just a lot of entertainment. Whether it’s the clucking of hens, the playful hopping of rabbits, or the gentle buzz of bees, each creature has its place. The hard part is choosing which one to add first!
Which animal...
Cattle can be such a big part of homestead and farm life, whether you’re raising them for milk, beef, or simply because you love having them around. Some folks enjoy the rhythm of daily milking, others love the satisfaction of raising grass-fed beef, and for many, cattle are a cornerstone of...
If you’ve ever watched a bored rabbit, you know the signs. Chewing on the cage bars. Digging like they’re trying to reach Australia. Or giving you that look that clearly says, “Hey human, I need something to do.” Rabbits are curious, smart little creatures. They don’t just need food and shelter...
If you’ve ever spent time watching pigs, you’ll know they’re not just about rooting around and eating. They’ve got a whole social order going on in that pen. From bossy leaders who claim the best sleeping spots to the quieter pigs that just go with the flow, their group dynamics can be...
If you’ve ever tried moving a pig from one pen to another, you already know it’s not exactly like walking a dog on a leash. Pigs have a mind of their own, and they’re not shy about showing it. One minute they’re calm, the next they’re bolting in the opposite direction like they’ve just spotted...