Walsh Forest Farms

A little experiment I’ve been conducting this past week...fodder for the livestock! Did you know that sprouting grains reduces the amount of starch in the grain and increases the nutrients? It’s also easier to digest and the nutrients are more easily absorbed. When the ground is covered in snow, this is a super easy (and cost-effective!)way to give our chickens and rabbits some greens to eat. ... So far, here’s what I’ve done: 1. Soak the oats in cold water for 24 hours (some grains need less time) 2. Rinse the oats and drain them well 3. Keep them moist (I used a spray bottle with water) So easy! I’m going to grow them a bit more so they’re fodder (grass) and not just sprouts. I’ll keep you updated #walshforestfarms #meatrabbits #backyardchickens #firsttimefarmers #canadianfarmers #smallfarm #growyourfood #sustainablefarming #sustainablefood #sustainablefoods #sustainablefoodsystems #regenerativeagriculture #regenerativefarming #ethicalfood #farmstead #homesteadinglife #homesteadersofinstagram #ilovemychickens #happychickens #feedingthechickens #rabbitfarmer #rabbitfarming #northernontario #northernlife

Wishing you a very happy New Year! 2021...let’s go! #walshforestfarms #gratitude #gratefull #newyear2021

A little bit of down time with my dogs, a book, an adult beverage, and my fake fireplace on the TV #walshforestfarms #meatrabbits #canadianfarmers #fireplacechannel #winterfarming #raisingrabbits

Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good night!

Our beloved Chickenbelle has a nasty case of 3rd degree frostbite on her comb Did you know that chickens are very cold-hearty, but can get frostbite on their combs, wattles, and feet? It’s caused by moisture on the soft tissue freezing and stopping blood supply to that area. In some cases, applying Vaseline can block moisture and prevent frostbite. In this case, we had back-to-back -25C nights; Vaseline wouldn’t have helped. The BEST prevention is good coop ventilation to g...et rid of moisture before it builds up. Chickenbelle doesn’t seem to be in too much pain. She’s temporarily being housed in the barn with the bunnies to let her heal without re-freezing and/or pecking. She’s eating, drinking, and foraging and seems to be enjoying her new crib! She has a bad-ass punk vibe going now, and may end up losing some of her comb. #walshforestfarms #farmstead #homesteadlife #chickensofinstagram #chickens #backyardchickens #hensofinstagram #freerangehens #freerangechickens #chickenkeeping #chickenkeeper #chooks #chooksofinstagram #chook #petchickens #ilovemychickens #chickenmom #northernontario #frostbite #frostbitten #northernlife #ruralontario @ Warren, Ontario