Guildbrook Farm | Simple Sustainable Living Jaime your initial video was awesome! We'll be new chicken owners and you showed the reality of what will happen. Thank you for your candor and knowledge and for not allowing anyone to bully you! You always tell it like it is. Thanks!
We've been followers and subscribers for a year now, but we've binge watched your episodes to catch up 😁. You are very inspirational and have helped us in our learning; we truly thank you for this! Keep up with the great videos! Happy New Year & God Bless your family & homestead!
The authenticity of TH-cam channel content is important. We appreciate this channel for that reason as well as the interesting subject matter. We all learn together. Keep up the quality work.
I guess I shouldn't be surprised at how some folks think they know how you should live your life and run your homestead. I can only imagine the comments and questions that would arise if we all had TH-cam channels and opened our lives like you guys do. I am sure everyone would have all of the answers to life. Your chickens are amazingly socialized and healthy. Good luck with your new adventure.
Without getting all serious about your previous video as many people have, I simply looked at it for comedic value and had an incredible good time watching! The chickens running around with their new saddles reminds me of my dogs flapping their gums when the doorbell rings! Animals are pretty awesome! And so are you and Jeremy!👍🏼
A friend of mine got a flock with the house she bought. Another friend told her to get rid of the rooster (like your commenters) . she likes to free range them. I told her to observe how hard the rooster worked to keep the hens safe. After observing she decided the rooster was necessary, extra bonus is that he's so pretty and funny!
I love you so much! Some of those comments and questions were flat out rude! You answered this response very graciously! Bravo to you for being so diplomatic!
I can't believe someone actually said anything negative about your other video. Wow! Your hens are obviously well loved. I have a roo with my 9 hens. To the uneducated, it might appear that your roo was attacking your hen. Not at all! I could tell he was concerned and trying to come to their rescue. I have a few well loved hens that I have considered putting saddles on but didn't know where to start. Your demo was great and your hens we're so calm while having their saddles put on. Chickens are odd creatures. You guys are very caring and I appreciate the time and effort you put into your channel, your homestead, and the cause.
Your rooster was jelly he didn't have a superhero cape... lol. Don't worry about the negative folks. You folks inspire people and the raw honesty that you both show in the vlogs is awesome. Keep posting,.. we will all keep watching. Thank you and happy 2018 to you all!!!
Well I personally thought you did a great job, and was very grateful for the authenticity of your video! So appreciate your willingness to share. Smiles!
Considering that I've raised chickens for years, I wasn't at all alarmed by the way your hens acted after they got their capes. Also the rooster wasn't what I call aggressive. He only reacted to the hens freaking out about the capes. Some people think that real farm life is supposed to be all calm and no "excitement" and if the animals start getting hairs up their backside then there must be something terribly wrong. In reality, it is the exact opposite. If you have quiet and passive and lazy animals, then there's a problem because healthy animals will always react with exuberance and drama. Chickens can be quite tempermental, emphasis on mental, but yours are some of the most calmest and friendliest I've ever seen. Probably because you give them treats. I had over 100 spring chicks that we free ranged when I was a teenager and so I was not as "hands-on" with each individual chicken but just the rooster and the ducklings. Can't say I didn't snicker at your hens' expense though. Of course it's harmless fun and actually necessary because even with 25 laying hens my darn big white Shooster McGooster had them all bald from the back of the head down to past their wings. Back in the 80's we didn't hear of hen saddles, so we just clipped our rooster's beak and talons. Please be patient with all of us watching your journey. Especially now that we are all bursting with armchair energy now that you have some land. Please don't get discouraged because some of us start getting a bit too critical over the small shit. Keep up the good work! ~Yaya
You are right on! You are doing great. We raised a very large free range egg laying flock for 16 years and sold eggs locally to families, restaurants and wineries. Our losses were minimal. The health of the flock was off the chart longevity and production. But we were constantly being advised to “modernize”. Back then we were laughed at by the Co-op for allowing free grazing, selective breeding and naturally/managed brooding for spring chicks. Am so glad you are researching but even better than that you are taking in with all your senses the entire scope of each challenge. That is what a good steward does. Blessings to you and your family in 2018!
I find it very interesting how some people (such as yourselves) can read animal behaviour quite easily, while others really seem to struggle. I thought the last video was fascinating how the rooster was trying his best to help the hens get the saddles off. But it surprises me how even basic animal behaviour is often completely misunderstood by so many people, even if it's the behaviour of their own pets!
You guys are doing great! You research every aspect of your new journey of homesteading. Wow some of those questions and or comments make me wonder if people even listen to your videos... You gave most of that information in the first video. Keep it up you guys are doing awesome
They are all getting along nicely and adorable to boot. :) I personally would rather you keep it real and honest and show what happens when a hen saddle is put on. I appreciate your videos and if a bit of chaos happens well......so be it. :)
Everytime I see your chickens in videos, I find myself awestruck by how gorgeous they all are! It’s a shame so many people are so quick to kill a living creature because they hold their human emotions and expectations to it. You’ve handled this very well, bravo! 👍🏼👏🏼
I love watching your Super Hens! I actually thought you explained most of this in your first video, but I love that you take time to address multiple comments/questions from your subscribers.
If you get goats or sheep again, consider getting a donkey too. Donkeys protect the flock from coyotes and other predators. FYI, where I live, livestock is not allowed due to deed restrictions and so watching you raise the chickens has been a treat.
Our flock just got decimated by coyotes. Starting again come spring but this time adding a few geese as guards. I am using the extra time with just two ducks a turkey and a few roosters to research and plan out our flock instead of just buying what is available locally. Found out our turkeys were much too big, our ducks were not good layers and too small for meat and our chickens were too small for what we wanted lol. We are trying to view the setback as a good reset button on our flock instead of the tragedy it was. I am interested in the reasoning for only free ranging half of the day instead of full days? I have never heard of part time like that before.
Some people just feel the need to speak without hearing what they say. You are an awesome teacher and an even better caregiver. Keep doing what your doing it works for you and your family, as mentioned in your videos this is your journey and we are here for the ride. It’s all a learning process. Stick to your guns girl..... I have faith and faith in you and Jeremy...... y’all’s girls are awesome individuals. 🤗🐓🤠
Great job! Thanks for the saddle info. Anyone that's watched more than one of your videos knows how painstakingly thorough y'all are. You guys are doing amazing. Stay warm! Happy New Year!
Jamie, the thing I love most about your channel is that my lazy butt can watch with confidence knowing you've done the research for me! I also know that, not only have you researched it, you've researched it thoroughly. For this I thank you. Your time, knowledge and work put into these videos are greatly appreciated!
I’m so glad you did not edit the beginning, you both have been such an inspiration and help to myself and family! I am such a visual learner and I really haven’t found the right homesteading channel until I came across yours! Thank you both so much for all your hard work and sharing!
He's a beautiful rooster, doing his job, and your little flock is operating as a normal, happy chicken family :) Wow. I think you'd have to let a lot of people's comments 'shed off' (like water off a ducks back). lol. They are mostly just opinions, some from people who may have never owned a chicken. I think where I live, you'd be considered too attentive (like me), instead of just throwing a bunch of animals together and letting them do their own thing. Remember, you can't please everyone. And as you said, your family's decisions are the best thought out for your own critters. Anyone can see you have their interest at heart. I've cared for chickens for most of 52 years and you still learn, and adjust everything, as you go. But thanks for letting us watch!
I have to let you know that my husband and I LOVE your channel!! We follow a few others like Starry Hilder and Patera to name a few, but you are our favorite! We love you because you're so down to earth and unpretentious, and you're just plain cool. I don't know how you can remain so diplomatic when you answer some of the questions you get from some people, if it where me, I wouldn't even justify them with an answer, but you do it in a way that proves how classy and amazing you are. We look forward to every single one of your videos, they're very informative and interesting. Thank you for sharing your adventures with us. You have an awesome family, and we can't wait to see how your new homestead evolves. Best of luck to you guys!
I think your doing amazing job with the chickens. We where going to get some hens and a male, but the farms/breeders we went to in the UK really didn't meet our standards as our chickens would be add on to our farmily. Your chickens look amazing, very healthy and very much loved and cared for you can really see this, its lovely to see. I personally think your doing a grate job with those chickens. The biggest mistake I have made so far was taking my little one to see some of these farms/breeders with me. We where expecting see chickens like your, and other homestead channels sady that was not the case. Keep up the amazing job your guys are doing, your new place looks a dream. Me and the kids love your channel. Blessings from the UK and have a Grate New Year for 2018.
You had great technique when applying the saddles -- you were gentle, yet you were careful while holding the hens that they didn't hurt themselves. Yeah, they freaked a little, but it wasn't uncontrollable; plus you & Jeremy were present in the event anything adverse developed. Excellent job!
I really like how you can respond to questions and comments in order to educate kindly. I see so many people get instantly offended and defensive when a comment/question is posted. It's refreshing to see how you handle it! While there are some people who purposefully antagonize, I think a lot of people just want to share their advice or are honestly curious. Thanks for being respectful in the way you approach them. That's why you're one of my favorite channels to watch. I learn so much! Glad to see the chickens all settled in. I love seeing them all together while free-ranging. I will be so excited when I live on some property where I can let my girls out on a regular basis. Right now I'm in the city and they have to stay in their coop/run. I made a portable chicken tractor so they can get around the yard safely, though. It lets them have a bit more freedom and tasty treats!
you have some very beautiful little ladies, but I thought he was very handsome and sweet.. and I thought your video was well done, clearly you guys care very much about your livestock and do all you can to keep them safe and cared for.. love your videos, I find them very interesting and informative.. thank you for them and thank you for taking us along on your journey.. love you guys..
My wife and I are about to move out of suburbia and into a 5 acre property in Oregon. I am hoping to become self reliant with much of what you all are doing. I am new to your channel and have been very inspired and informed. Thank you for what you are doing.
I love your channel! I’m a city slicker and I could figure out what you were doing with the chicken saddles! I’m trying in my small way to be more self reliant. You are one of the ones that gave me courage to can! So far just jam and I hope to get the nerve to pressure can. Your hard work and authenticity is appreciate. Thank you.
You said the word 'saddles' so many times that I started thinking of horseback riding, which lead to thinking about horse saddles, which lead to thinking about stirrups. If you attach stirrups to those chicken saddles then the rooster can mount differently, which will eliminate the loss of back feathers. Giddy-up, cowboy! :)
I have to say I think the way you shoot your videos is the right way to go. The problem you have with your chickens and your solution was very instructional. Had you just done a "before" and "after" type video the fact that there is an adjustment period would have been missed. Keep up the great work :-)
Wow...some people sure are quick to judge. If anyone has ever watched your channel should know you have put lots of thought into your actions. Sad you have to explain again.
It is abundantly clear that you speak kindly to them, you handle them gently, they come to you not run from you.....finally look at their overall health. beautiful feathers with shine to them...their pen is immaculate.... it is not likely someone who takes such excellent care of their chickens is going to put them at harm with a device used to PROTECT the females from overzealous mating situations... whew!!!
You two do a thorough job of researching everything. I wasn't concerned at all about the rooster and hens. He was doing a great job of protecting his ladies. Thanks for the update.
I have to say that I am 100% impressed with both videos. First, I was completely stunned with how easily you were able to handle your birds! You called to them and then picked them up without any muss or fuss. The contented sounds they made while snuggled in your arms. It was just short of purring! Wonderful. Watching your rooster was an awesome sight to behold. The social structure of the birds is simply amazing to anyone that takes the time to watch and learn. Roosters serve a purpose in a flock and, in my opinion, are quite necessary for a self sustainable, self sufficient system. I didn't see anything "aggressive" about his behavior but rather protective. He is so beautiful. In learning all I can about chickens before taking on the commitment of raising them, I watch a lot of videos. My favorite is/was The Private Life of Chickens (I can't find the full length movie link). That's when my opinion of them changed 180 degrees. :D Unfortunately, we've had our chicken hopes dashed here. I've read the ordinances for the property we're currently living on and even though chickens are allowed, the restrictions on where they can be placed have made it impossible. We're looking for less restrictive land but were hoping to get some first hand raising experience before moving. We're taking care of a special needs family member in their home so it's a very tricky situation, legally and otherwise. BUT, we're not giving up! I've been watching your channel for quite a while now and your new move has given me a lot of hope that our property is out there. Thank you for including us on your journey. (BTW, I canned meat for the first time last month. Couldn't have done it without your canning videos!) EDIT: found a link to the "movie." It's about an hour long but so worth it: th-cam.com/video/1c06xOF4uQ8/w-d-xo.html
So glad you show us the real parts of your adventure. You don't have to answer to anyone. You are great stewards to your animals. When you can hold a chicken like you did, that tells me all I need to know. These chickens are being well cared for. There is a difference between advise and criticism. So very glad I found your channel. I really look forward to seeing all your videos. Looking forward to summer coming.
I think you are a fantastic chicken mom, I have seen some vlogs with chickens with no feathers and bleeding, looks painful, I learn thru you, thank you for enlightening me. I hope to have chickens 1 day. A lesson learned.
It is sad that we, your viewers, are so removed from this way of life that you have to break down and justify every decision you make. I applaud your lifestyle choice and your bravery for documenting your journey publicly. You be you.
Thank you very much for this update and attempt to education the ignorant and uninformed (and if some of you do not like my strong characterization of you, get over it). For relatively new animal keepers you are doing an exceptional job. You are obviously doing your research. Now for a bit of humor: Maybe the rooster is jealous, he wants his own cape.
I think you did an AWESOME job. Its a testament to you and how you treat your chickens that they sat so well with you on your lap and one even went right up into your lap when called. Its easy to see they trust you and that you live them. Thanks lots for the info on where to get the saddles. Keep on doing what you're doing!!
I personally found your videos very informative and I thank you for sharing I became your fan # 1 since I watched your canning 101 video keep the good work 😘
I think that your Rooster is a beautiful looking bird. You explained why you did the saddles, and the reasoning, I'M loving that you did it before he pulled them bald & bleeding ! The other thing is, if you did it at night they'd have broken their necks flying into the walls trying to get them off, it would've been disastrous. Those are the nicest fitting saddles I've seen, some of the saddles slide around really dangerously. When you take up Sewing you can make 'em in Camo. 😉
I just realized why I am getting recommended children videos and such in the "Up Next" section to the right of this comment area instead of the usual homesteading related videos. The word "Superhero" in this and your previous video. Too funny!
There is absolutely no reason to defend yourself, dear Jamie, you are such a caring and protective henkeeper, one could see this from the beginning with the little ones! I learnt so much from this vids - no one was so detailed in all of the needs of chickens like you. And even if they were scared first - even a horse is scared of the first saddle, isn't it? - but they adjusted real quick I found and it might be, they are even protected against other predators as well because of the bright colours....like birds of prey. And there are always these exhausting people....who can't let it be good
Good news update, Jaime. Glad to hear that you have a sensible plan and also that all the existing chooks are content. Happy new year to you and your family.
I think that most people leaving judgemental comments on your videos are not long term subscribers, or they would know you always do extensive research and usually know what you are talking about. Not that you would know everything from the get go, but giving helpful advice is different than patronizing. EDIT: I posted my comment about 2 minutes in and you just confirmed what I commented at the end of the video but I'll leave my comment anyway ahah.
We have a flock of five hens in the city. It was six 😔 Roosters aren't allowed here and boy do I wish we could have the protection of a rooster! Before getting chickens I had a negative view of roosters- not so now. Mother Nature knows best- roosters are an important part of a safe flock. It's a kindness of you to answer these q's and be reflective, for viewers who possibly don't understand the role of a rooster.
Thanks for the Q and A but you have done what you have thought best for you hens. I so appreciate the learning experience you are going through and that you are taking us along with you. Trust your own instincts!! Peace and blessings.
Just found your videos and thankful for both the original video and the follow up! We have urban chickens and while we thought we had 4 baby hens, 1 turned out to be a rooster. Since the 4 chicks were each selected by our 4 kids, culling the boy was not an option. So we faced up to new challenges: 3 girls to 1 boy is far from an ideal ratio but we have found other benefits to our surprisedly mixed flock. Saddles may be a really important tool in our toolkit. Seeing the adjustment process was really useful also, as it helps us to know what to expect and allows us to plan. Knowing that everyone adjusted well, is key to our (and our kids') emotional fortitude - happy endings! So thank you again for a candid and complete report out of the process!
Nice wrist warmers!! Thanks for the more in-depth explanation. When my chickens got ragged from all the lovin', the saddles helped immensely. Looks like a peaceful, happy flock :) Rock on, J!
Thanks for sharing your chicken saddle experience! Love seeing those beautiful birds :) I'm looking forward to seeing how your new chicks integrate into the flock next year.
Happy New Year! Thank you for the very informative update and explanation! That rooster is very handsome, healthy, and very territorial, "he has his priorities straight" as they say. Your research, planning, performing, observation of results, and post analyses, was very well done! The fact that you didn't edit out the 'distasteful' portions of the vlog is tribute to your channel content and production skills! I almost forgot the most important attribute to Homesteading.....patience, the fact it was a little scary at first, but you let things 'play out' without panicking! Great Job!
I have learned a lot from watching your channel. One thing for sure, you are always careful, thoughtful and do research. You would never be a malicious person. Protective, not malicious. I didn't know that about Roosters and hens, so you see, you are teaching us. Thanks for sharing. Plus your adorable. Let's go to the dirt😉
All's well that ends well! Those are some cool hen chickens, and a very handsome rooster! That was quite a ruckus you had, and the chickens were freaking out too ~8^) Take care!
love the superhero hens video, Good luck which soring this out as long as the chickens are happy and laying after a few days then all is right with their world, love the bright colours: if it helps with finding them in the morning or when free-ranging that a plus in my book as you have just moved and are starting over. I hope that you have a HAPPY NEW YEAR.
I made my husband and brother watch yesterdays video. It was that funny! You did bring to my attention that I needed to take a closer look at my girls.... and several of them are "favorites" so I have ordered the hen saddles and post on here when they come in. Thanks again!
It sure was fun watching the hens ripping around the yard,You have always taken good care of your animals good job explaining to those that don't know.
I just wanted to make the comment that I noticed how careful and slow and caring you were with the hens when you placed the saddles on. This is new to them and foreign. As for the rooster he is a beauty. He was just concerned for his girls. Great job and so sad that you needed to explain but it is educational for those that do not understand. Just think of putting a saddle on a horse for the first time. That is why they buck but then settles down. OK done.
Had chickens and Muscovy ducks ... That drake tried to breed the hens often ... They showed their displeasure often ... He never hurt them tho ... Never had a roster ... The drake did watch out for them all ... Love your channel and good luck ... The move seems to have been a good thing ...
Saddles might, maybe, maybe help when a hawk does hit them. Whenever we've had a hawk strike a bird, they tend to grab them in the region of the saddle and puncture, then go for the head (because my birds are XL). Your rooster might gain a few extra seconds to intimidate the hawk if he has the guts for it. Maybe.
Great video. I didn't really have a lack of understanding from the first video, it is nice that you take the time to help clarify for those who do not realize you are the "Chicken Lady" in my book anyway. All of your chickens look up to you and you take very good care of them. What? You can change your mind and do things a different way --- LOL not acceptable j/k Have a Happy New Year !!! I think Mr Rooster needs his own cape at least to bring in the new year!!
I think you all did a great job!! Thank you for sharing the entire footage of the event. I have had problems with aggressive mating Roaster and I didn’t know about the saddles. Things have naturally calmed down with my flock but I was nervous and monitored closely for quite awhile. Also, thanks for sharing the blue stuff (forgot the name) that you put on one of the hens. I will get some from our local agway. I love that store! I’m so happy for you guys. Nice job with everything!!!
![[UNCUT] The Loyal Pin ปิ่นภักดิ์ EP.6 (1/4)](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/m05kZ2GDKXg/mqdefault.jpg)
To watch our original video on CHICKEN SADDLES: th-cam.com/video/zEiTteVkGdM/w-d-xo.html For more chicken videos: goo.gl/cZeKUx Thanks for watching!
Guildbrook Farm | Simple Sustainable Living ty for all your videos, you have helped me so much!
Guildbrook Farm | Simple Sustainable Living Jaime your initial video was awesome! We'll be new chicken owners and you showed the reality of what will happen. Thank you for your candor and knowledge and for not allowing anyone to bully you! You always tell it like it is. Thanks!
We've been followers and subscribers for a year now, but we've binge watched your episodes to catch up 😁. You are very inspirational and have helped us in our learning; we truly thank you for this! Keep up with the great videos! Happy New Year & God Bless your family & homestead!
The authenticity of TH-cam channel content is important. We appreciate this channel for that reason as well as the interesting subject matter. We all learn together. Keep up the quality work.
I guess I shouldn't be surprised at how some folks think they know how you should live your life and run your homestead. I can only imagine the comments and questions that would arise if we all had TH-cam channels and opened our lives like you guys do. I am sure everyone would have all of the answers to life. Your chickens are amazingly socialized and healthy. Good luck with your new adventure.
😂
Without getting all serious about your previous video as many people have, I simply looked at it for comedic value and had an incredible good time watching! The chickens running around with their new saddles reminds me of my dogs flapping their gums when the doorbell rings! Animals are pretty awesome! And so are you and Jeremy!👍🏼
A friend of mine got a flock with the house she bought. Another friend told her to get rid of the rooster (like your commenters) . she likes to free range them. I told her to observe how hard the rooster worked to keep the hens safe. After observing she decided the rooster was necessary, extra bonus is that he's so pretty and funny!
BTW I thought it was obvious that the rooster thought some horrible thing was attacking his hens and he was determined to save them.
I love you so much! Some of those comments and questions were flat out rude! You answered this response very graciously! Bravo to you for being so diplomatic!
I can't believe someone actually said anything negative about your other video. Wow! Your hens are obviously well loved. I have a roo with my 9 hens. To the uneducated, it might appear that your roo was attacking your hen. Not at all! I could tell he was concerned and trying to come to their rescue. I have a few well loved hens that I have considered putting saddles on but didn't know where to start. Your demo was great and your hens we're so calm while having their saddles put on. Chickens are odd creatures. You guys are very caring and I appreciate the time and effort you put into your channel, your homestead, and the cause.
Thanks for the laugh at the thought of putting a roo in with hens! :) (to an Australian, 'roo' means kangaroo)
Lololol
You are doing a great job , never doubt yourself , you can never please everyone on the internet. Stay true to yourselves
Your rooster was jelly he didn't have a superhero cape... lol. Don't worry about the negative folks. You folks inspire people and the raw honesty that you both show in the vlogs is awesome. Keep posting,.. we will all keep watching. Thank you and happy 2018 to you all!!!
Well I personally thought you did a great job, and was very grateful for the authenticity of your video! So appreciate your willingness to share. Smiles!
Considering that I've raised chickens for years, I wasn't at all alarmed by the way your hens acted after they got their capes. Also the rooster wasn't what I call aggressive. He only reacted to the hens freaking out about the capes. Some people think that real farm life is supposed to be all calm and no "excitement" and if the animals start getting hairs up their backside then there must be something terribly wrong. In reality, it is the exact opposite. If you have quiet and passive and lazy animals, then there's a problem because healthy animals will always react with exuberance and drama.
Chickens can be quite tempermental, emphasis on mental, but yours are some of the most calmest and friendliest I've ever seen. Probably because you give them treats. I had over 100 spring chicks that we free ranged when I was a teenager and so I was not as "hands-on" with each individual chicken but just the rooster and the ducklings. Can't say I didn't snicker at your hens' expense though. Of course it's harmless fun and actually necessary because even with 25 laying hens my darn big white Shooster McGooster had them all bald from the back of the head down to past their wings. Back in the 80's we didn't hear of hen saddles, so we just clipped our rooster's beak and talons.
Please be patient with all of us watching your journey. Especially now that we are all bursting with armchair energy now that you have some land. Please don't get discouraged because some of us start getting a bit too critical over the small shit. Keep up the good work!
~Yaya
You are right on! You are doing great. We raised a very large free range egg laying flock for 16 years and sold eggs locally to families, restaurants and wineries. Our losses were minimal. The health of the flock was off the chart longevity and production. But we were constantly being advised to “modernize”. Back then we were laughed at by the Co-op for allowing free grazing, selective breeding and naturally/managed brooding for spring chicks. Am so glad you are researching but even better than that you are taking in with all your senses the entire scope of each challenge. That is what a good steward does. Blessings to you and your family in 2018!
Nailed it!
I find it very interesting how some people (such as yourselves) can read animal behaviour quite easily, while others really seem to struggle. I thought the last video was fascinating how the rooster was trying his best to help the hens get the saddles off. But it surprises me how even basic animal behaviour is often completely misunderstood by so many people, even if it's the behaviour of their own pets!
Very true
You guys are doing great! You research every aspect of your new journey of homesteading. Wow some of those questions and or comments make me wonder if people even listen to your videos... You gave most of that information in the first video. Keep it up you guys are doing awesome
They are all getting along nicely and adorable to boot. :) I personally would rather you keep it real and honest and show what happens when a hen saddle is put on. I appreciate your videos and if a bit of chaos happens well......so be it. :)
Everytime I see your chickens in videos, I find myself awestruck by how gorgeous they all are! It’s a shame so many people are so quick to kill a living creature because they hold their human emotions and expectations to it. You’ve handled this very well, bravo! 👍🏼👏🏼
Yeah, wouldn't it be nice if logic and reason really did stop trolls :)
I love watching your Super Hens! I actually thought you explained most of this in your first video, but I love that you take time to address multiple comments/questions from your subscribers.
This is why I love watching your videos great communication.
If you get goats or sheep again, consider getting a donkey too. Donkeys protect the flock from coyotes and other predators.
FYI, where I live, livestock is not allowed due to deed restrictions and so watching you raise the chickens has been a treat.
Spam my Yes, Donkeys ate great at keeping predators away.
Our flock just got decimated by coyotes. Starting again come spring but this time adding a few geese as guards. I am using the extra time with just two ducks a turkey and a few roosters to research and plan out our flock instead of just buying what is available locally. Found out our turkeys were much too big, our ducks were not good layers and too small for meat and our chickens were too small for what we wanted lol. We are trying to view the setback as a good reset button on our flock instead of the tragedy it was. I am interested in the reasoning for only free ranging half of the day instead of full days? I have never heard of part time like that before.
Donkeys are naturally protective over a flock. Donkeys will rip coyotes to shreds. I hope it works out for you.
Some people just feel the need to speak without hearing what they say. You are an awesome teacher and an even better caregiver. Keep doing what your doing it works for you and your family, as mentioned in your videos this is your journey and we are here for the ride. It’s all a learning process. Stick to your guns girl..... I have faith and faith in you and Jeremy...... y’all’s girls are awesome individuals. 🤗🐓🤠
Great job! Thanks for the saddle info. Anyone that's watched more than one of your videos knows how painstakingly thorough y'all are. You guys are doing amazing. Stay warm! Happy New Year!
Jamie, the thing I love most about your channel is that my lazy butt can watch with confidence knowing you've done the research for me! I also know that, not only have you researched it, you've researched it thoroughly. For this I thank you. Your time, knowledge and work put into these videos are greatly appreciated!
I always recommend that you never take anyone’s word for it. Always do your own research.
Said it before and I'll say it again, you clearly are very good stewards of the health of the animals in your care.
I’m so glad you did not edit the beginning, you both have been such an inspiration and help to myself and family! I am such a visual learner and I really haven’t found the right homesteading channel until I came across yours! Thank you both so much for all your hard work and sharing!
He's a beautiful rooster, doing his job, and your little flock is operating as a normal, happy chicken family :) Wow. I think you'd have to let a lot of people's comments 'shed off' (like water off a ducks back). lol. They are mostly just opinions, some from people who may have never owned a chicken. I think where I live, you'd be considered too attentive (like me), instead of just throwing a bunch of animals together and letting them do their own thing. Remember, you can't please everyone. And as you said, your family's decisions are the best thought out for your own critters. Anyone can see you have their interest at heart. I've cared for chickens for most of 52 years and you still learn, and adjust everything, as you go. But thanks for letting us watch!
I have to let you know that my husband and I LOVE your channel!! We follow a few others like Starry Hilder and Patera to name a few, but you are our favorite! We love you because you're so down to earth and unpretentious, and you're just plain cool. I don't know how you can remain so diplomatic when you answer some of the questions you get from some people, if it where me, I wouldn't even justify them with an answer, but you do it in a way that proves how classy and amazing you are. We look forward to every single one of your videos, they're very informative and interesting. Thank you for sharing your adventures with us. You have an awesome family, and we can't wait to see how your new homestead evolves. Best of luck to you guys!
Wow thank you so much Terrie! We’re just glad we can make stuff people enjoy. Happy New Year!
I'm glad you didn't edit the original video, it's really helpful, thanks.
I think your doing amazing job with the chickens. We where going to get some hens and a male, but the farms/breeders we went to in the UK really didn't meet our standards as our chickens would be add on to our farmily. Your chickens look amazing, very healthy and very much loved and cared for you can really see this, its lovely to see. I personally think your doing a grate job with those chickens. The biggest mistake I have made so far was taking my little one to see some of these farms/breeders with me. We where expecting see chickens like your, and other homestead channels sady that was not the case. Keep up the amazing job your guys are doing, your new place looks a dream. Me and the kids love your channel. Blessings from the UK and have a Grate New Year for 2018.
You had great technique when applying the saddles -- you were gentle, yet you were careful while holding the hens that they didn't hurt themselves. Yeah, they freaked a little, but it wasn't uncontrollable; plus you & Jeremy were present in the event anything adverse developed. Excellent job!
That rooster reacted perfectly. He's beautiful and seems to be great at his job. Good on you all!
I really like how you can respond to questions and comments in order to educate kindly. I see so many people get instantly offended and defensive when a comment/question is posted. It's refreshing to see how you handle it! While there are some people who purposefully antagonize, I think a lot of people just want to share their advice or are honestly curious. Thanks for being respectful in the way you approach them. That's why you're one of my favorite channels to watch. I learn so much!
Glad to see the chickens all settled in. I love seeing them all together while free-ranging. I will be so excited when I live on some property where I can let my girls out on a regular basis. Right now I'm in the city and they have to stay in their coop/run. I made a portable chicken tractor so they can get around the yard safely, though. It lets them have a bit more freedom and tasty treats!
you have some very beautiful little ladies, but I thought he was very handsome and sweet.. and I thought your video was well done, clearly you guys care very much about your livestock and do all you can to keep them safe and cared for.. love your videos, I find them very interesting and informative.. thank you for them and thank you for taking us along on your journey.. love you guys..
Very good follow up video. As a long time subscriber I feel you are well reasoned and very articulate. Keep up the good work ;)
Great approach addressing all the comments.
My wife and I are about to move out of suburbia and into a 5 acre property in Oregon. I am hoping to become self reliant with much of what you all are doing. I am new to your channel and have been very inspired and informed. Thank you for what you are doing.
Welcome!
Great job!!!! Glad the saddles worked out! Love the new property! Blessings!!!
I love your channel! I’m a city slicker and I could figure out what you were doing with the chicken saddles! I’m trying in my small way to be more self reliant. You are one of the ones that gave me courage to can! So far just jam and I hope to get the nerve to pressure can.
Your hard work and authenticity is appreciate. Thank you.
Thanks for the update! Glad to hear that the girls are getting used to their capes. You clearly love these birds.
You said the word 'saddles' so many times that I started thinking of horseback riding, which lead to thinking about horse saddles, which lead to thinking about stirrups. If you attach stirrups to those chicken saddles then the rooster can mount differently, which will eliminate the loss of back feathers. Giddy-up, cowboy! :)
Great answers. I think you handled that well.
I enjoy all of your videos. I think you are always very informative on everything.
Great job ! ! Love chickens! You guys are doing a great job, and what a great piece of property ! !
I have to say I think the way you shoot your videos is the right way to go. The problem you have with your chickens and your solution was very instructional. Had you just done a "before" and "after" type video the fact that there is an adjustment period would have been missed. Keep up the great work :-)
Wow...some people sure are quick to judge. If anyone has ever watched your channel should know you have put lots of thought into your actions. Sad you have to explain again.
It just thrills me to see this. After what you went through in your last neighborhood, you can live as you please.... Yay!!
It is abundantly clear that you speak kindly to them, you handle them gently, they come to you not run from you.....finally look at their overall health. beautiful feathers with shine to them...their pen is immaculate.... it is not likely someone who takes such excellent care of their chickens is going to put them at harm with a device used to PROTECT the females from overzealous mating situations... whew!!!
Karen Weber, My thoughts exactly. I was taken back to hear of such negative talk.
Good job this is your land and future farm do what you want to do.
You two do a thorough job of researching everything. I wasn't concerned at all about the rooster and hens. He was doing a great job of protecting his ladies. Thanks for the update.
I have to say that I am 100% impressed with both videos. First, I was completely stunned with how easily you were able to handle your birds! You called to them and then picked them up without any muss or fuss. The contented sounds they made while snuggled in your arms. It was just short of purring! Wonderful.
Watching your rooster was an awesome sight to behold. The social structure of the birds is simply amazing to anyone that takes the time to watch and learn. Roosters serve a purpose in a flock and, in my opinion, are quite necessary for a self sustainable, self sufficient system. I didn't see anything "aggressive" about his behavior but rather protective. He is so beautiful.
In learning all I can about chickens before taking on the commitment of raising them, I watch a lot of videos. My favorite is/was The Private Life of Chickens (I can't find the full length movie link). That's when my opinion of them changed 180 degrees. :D Unfortunately, we've had our chicken hopes dashed here. I've read the ordinances for the property we're currently living on and even though chickens are allowed, the restrictions on where they can be placed have made it impossible. We're looking for less restrictive land but were hoping to get some first hand raising experience before moving. We're taking care of a special needs family member in their home so it's a very tricky situation, legally and otherwise. BUT, we're not giving up! I've been watching your channel for quite a while now and your new move has given me a lot of hope that our property is out there. Thank you for including us on your journey. (BTW, I canned meat for the first time last month. Couldn't have done it without your canning videos!)
EDIT: found a link to the "movie." It's about an hour long but so worth it: th-cam.com/video/1c06xOF4uQ8/w-d-xo.html
We watched that, great video 👍🏻 Good luck on getting your flock one day
So glad you show us the real parts of your adventure. You don't have to answer to anyone. You are great stewards to your animals. When you can hold a chicken like you did, that tells me all I need to know. These chickens are being well cared for. There is a difference between advise and criticism. So very glad I found your channel. I really look forward to seeing all your videos. Looking forward to summer coming.
Almost 11 minutes of Chicken talk. Why am I so amused ? Very interesting to watch your journey. Hope the capes work out.
Cool. I think you handled everything perfectly!
I think you are a fantastic chicken mom, I have seen some vlogs with chickens with no feathers and bleeding, looks painful, I learn thru you, thank you for enlightening me. I hope to have chickens 1 day. A lesson learned.
I love how y'all explain everything. This helps me because I plan on getting chickens soon. I really love y'all's channel and wish y'all a great 2018.
It is sad that we, your viewers, are so removed from this way of life that you have to break down and justify every decision you make. I applaud your lifestyle choice and your bravery for documenting your journey publicly. You be you.
Thank you very much for this update and attempt to education the ignorant and uninformed (and if some of you do not like my strong characterization of you, get over it).
For relatively new animal keepers you are doing an exceptional job. You are obviously doing your research.
Now for a bit of humor: Maybe the rooster is jealous, he wants his own cape.
I think you did an AWESOME job. Its a testament to you and how you treat your chickens that they sat so well with you on your lap and one even went right up into your lap when called. Its easy to see they trust you and that you live them. Thanks lots for the info on where to get the saddles. Keep on doing what you're doing!!
I think they're adorably colorful, like those painted wooden chickens you see at roadside farm stores!
Thanks for sharing your journey with us.
I personally found your videos very informative and I thank you for sharing I became your fan # 1 since I watched your canning 101 video keep the good work 😘
Y'all doing a great job! Let folks know this ish ain't easy its thought an hard work orln a daily!!
On a
I think that your Rooster is a beautiful looking bird. You explained why you did the saddles, and the reasoning, I'M loving that you did it before he pulled them bald & bleeding ! The other thing is, if you did it at night they'd have broken their necks flying into the walls trying to get them off, it would've been disastrous. Those are the nicest fitting saddles I've seen, some of the saddles slide around really dangerously. When you take up Sewing you can make 'em in Camo. 😉
I don’t think Im that crafty lol
I have learned so much by watching your videos, always so informative and thoughtful.
I just realized why I am getting recommended children videos and such in the "Up Next" section to the right of this comment area instead of the usual homesteading related videos. The word "Superhero" in this and your previous video. Too funny!
Lol!!!
Yes, I think Ima go watch Ruby Flies a Kite
Very good and extensive teaching video, thank you.
There is absolutely no reason to defend yourself, dear Jamie, you are such a caring and protective henkeeper, one could see this from the beginning with the little ones! I learnt so much from this vids - no one was so detailed in all of the needs of chickens like you.
And even if they were scared first - even a horse is scared of the first saddle, isn't it? - but they adjusted real quick I found and it might be, they are even protected against other predators as well because of the bright colours....like birds of prey.
And there are always these exhausting people....who can't let it be good
I love how much thought and research you put into everything!! Great job, thank you for sharing your experiences!
Good news update, Jaime. Glad to hear that you have a sensible plan and also that all the existing chooks are content. Happy new year to you and your family.
Thanks for the update. I'm sure I'm not the only one who doesn't know a thing about chickens, hens, roosters, hen saddles or farm animals in general.
I think that most people leaving judgemental comments on your videos are not long term subscribers, or they would know you always do extensive research and usually know what you are talking about. Not that you would know everything from the get go, but giving helpful advice is different than patronizing. EDIT: I posted my comment about 2 minutes in and you just confirmed what I commented at the end of the video but I'll leave my comment anyway ahah.
When we get more chickens I will be following your lead for sure! Thanks!
We have a flock of five hens in the city. It was six 😔 Roosters aren't allowed here and boy do I wish we could have the protection of a rooster! Before getting chickens I had a negative view of roosters- not so now. Mother Nature knows best- roosters are an important part of a safe flock. It's a kindness of you to answer these q's and be reflective, for viewers who possibly don't understand the role of a rooster.
Thanks for the Q and A but you have done what you have thought best for you hens. I so appreciate the learning experience you are going through and that you are taking us along with you. Trust your own instincts!! Peace and blessings.
Just found your videos and thankful for both the original video and the follow up! We have urban chickens and while we thought we had 4 baby hens, 1 turned out to be a rooster. Since the 4 chicks were each selected by our 4 kids, culling the boy was not an option. So we faced up to new challenges: 3 girls to 1 boy is far from an ideal ratio but we have found other benefits to our surprisedly mixed flock. Saddles may be a really important tool in our toolkit. Seeing the adjustment process was really useful also, as it helps us to know what to expect and allows us to plan. Knowing that everyone adjusted well, is key to our (and our kids') emotional fortitude - happy endings! So thank you again for a candid and complete report out of the process!
Nice wrist warmers!! Thanks for the more in-depth explanation. When my chickens got ragged from all the lovin', the saddles helped immensely. Looks like a peaceful, happy flock :) Rock on, J!
Love those wrist warmers!
Thanks for sharing your chicken saddle experience! Love seeing those beautiful birds :) I'm looking forward to seeing how your new chicks integrate into the flock next year.
Happy New Year! Thank you for the very informative update and explanation! That rooster is very handsome, healthy, and very territorial, "he has his priorities straight" as they say. Your research, planning, performing, observation of results, and post analyses, was very well done! The fact that you didn't edit out the 'distasteful' portions of the vlog is tribute to your channel content and production skills! I almost forgot the most important attribute to Homesteading.....patience, the fact it was a little scary at first, but you let things 'play out' without panicking! Great Job!
I have learned a lot from watching your channel. One thing for sure, you are always careful, thoughtful and do research. You would never be a malicious person. Protective, not malicious. I didn't know that about Roosters and hens, so you see, you are teaching us. Thanks for sharing. Plus your adorable. Let's go to the dirt😉
Thank you for your good work. I really appreciate
All's well that ends well! Those are some cool hen chickens, and a very handsome rooster! That was quite a ruckus you had, and the chickens were freaking out too ~8^) Take care!
love the superhero hens video, Good luck which soring this out as long as the chickens are happy and laying after a few days then all is right with their world, love the bright colours: if it helps with finding them in the morning or when free-ranging that a plus in my book as you have just moved and are starting over. I hope that you have a HAPPY NEW YEAR.
I made my husband and brother watch yesterdays video. It was that funny! You did bring to my attention that I needed to take a closer look at my girls.... and several of them are "favorites" so I have ordered the hen saddles and post on here when they come in. Thanks again!
They all look happy now, & very fashionable...
Well put. You did a great job! Thank you for sharing.
I think you are doing a great job
You seem to be part chicken
And observant
Obviously he was grabbing the saddles. He's a lovely cockerel 😊
It sure was fun watching the hens ripping around the yard,You have always taken good care of your animals good job explaining to those that don't know.
Hens actually lay better if you have a rooster. And roosters mellow out over fall and winter and feathers grow back.
I just wanted to make the comment that I noticed how careful and slow and caring you were with the hens when you placed the saddles on. This is new to them and foreign. As for the rooster he is a beauty. He was just concerned for his girls. Great job and so sad that you needed to explain but it is educational for those that do not understand. Just think of putting a saddle on a horse for the first time. That is why they buck but then settles down. OK done.
Had chickens and Muscovy ducks ... That drake tried to breed the hens often ... They showed their displeasure often ... He never hurt them tho ... Never had a roster ... The drake did watch out for them all ... Love your channel and good luck ... The move seems to have been a good thing ...
Amen Jamie! Speak it! Glad you show and tell the truth. Too many phoney YT channels out there.
Thanks for keeping it real and honest! That's why you guys are the best!
Well said...
Saddles might, maybe, maybe help when a hawk does hit them. Whenever we've had a hawk strike a bird, they tend to grab them in the region of the saddle and puncture, then go for the head (because my birds are XL). Your rooster might gain a few extra seconds to intimidate the hawk if he has the guts for it. Maybe.
Thanks for the vid...I wondered how long it would take them to adjust....You were right the rooster was after the saddles.
I think they're great, an animal of prey might not want to for go unwrapping it's meal and just let them be
Well there is that! Lol!
Great video. I didn't really have a lack of understanding from the first video, it is nice that you take the time to help clarify for those who do not realize you are the "Chicken Lady" in my book anyway. All of your chickens look up to you and you take very good care of them. What? You can change your mind and do things a different way --- LOL not acceptable j/k Have a Happy New Year !!! I think Mr Rooster needs his own cape at least to bring in the new year!!
He is a very handsome rooster!
I realize that has nothing to do with what's being said... but he is..
I think your chicks look great:) Well done!~Blessings
I think you all did a great job!! Thank you for sharing the entire footage of the event. I have had problems with aggressive mating Roaster and I didn’t know about the saddles. Things have naturally calmed down with my flock but I was nervous and monitored closely for quite awhile. Also, thanks for sharing the blue stuff (forgot the name) that you put on one of the hens. I will get some from our local agway. I love that store! I’m so happy for you guys. Nice job with everything!!!