My name is Tracy Fritz and I raise chickens in my urban backyard. If you’ve considered doing the same, then you know that the amount of online information about chicken rearing is overwhelming. The purpose of this site is to help you cut through the noise and answer some basic questions. Should you start with chicks, pullets, or hens? How do you avoid getting a rooster? What is the best brooder? I will cover all of this and more.
So, to begin: What is “pasty butt”? Pasty butt is the first serious obstacle I encountered on my chicken journey! Soon after getting my chicks, I noticed that the smallest one had a dirty butt. Her “vent” was blocked with poo and she was unable to excrete the feed she was eating. This dangerous condition, known as “pasty butt,” can kill a chick in 24 hours and requires immediate attention. With a q-tip, warm water, and the utmost gentleness, I was able to remove the blockage and save the chick whom henceforth has been called “Pasty.” This site is dedicated to her.
