Skip to main content

About Me

 

About Me



Hello folks! I'm Joe Simpson, your go-to guide in the world of chicken whispering. My life revolves around clucks, coops, and a whole lot of composting!


When I'm not tending to the flock, you'll find me enjoying an indie film, strumming a country tune, or cooking up a storm with farm-fresh produce.


I believe in sustainable, organic living and that every creature (chickens included!) deserves care and respect. Let's embark on this feathery journey together!


A Little About Me

I grew up in the countryside, where my family kept a small hobby farm with chickens, goats, and a vegetable garden.


From a young age, I developed a passion for caring for animals and living close to the land. After college, I worked in architecture for a few years but found myself longing for a lifestyle that was more aligned with my rural roots.


That's when I decided to leave the 9-5 grind behind and start my own organic homestead focused on raising happy, healthy chickens.


Now I spend my days building coops, tending to the flock, composting, and experimenting with new ways to live sustainably from the land. I also enjoy indulging my creative side through crafting, cooking farm-to-table meals, and playing music.


My goal with this site is to share my knowledge and experiences in hopes of helping others discover the joys and rewards of small-scale organic chicken keeping.


My Interests & Favorites


Chicken Care: I'm obsessed with finding new ways to keep chickens healthy, safe, and entertained. Nutrition, coop design, and preventative care are daily topics of interest.


Composting: Turning chicken manure and food scraps into black gold is incredibly rewarding (and eco-friendly!). I'm always tinkering with compost methods.


Organic Farming: I believe in working in harmony with nature through natural fertilizers, crop rotation, and avoidance of chemicals/GMOs. My garden keeps expanding as I experiment with new plants.


Bird Watching: In my free time, I enjoy watching and identifying wild birds that visit the homestead. Chickens will always be #1 in my heart though.


DIY Crafts: I have a passion for repurposing and upcycling items into coops, nesting boxes, feeders, and anything chickens need!


Cooking: My farm-fresh eggs and veggies find their way into all kinds of homemade dishes, from scrambles to lasagnas. I love cooking from scratch.


Country Music: Give me some Willie Nelson or Johnny Cash as I work in the coop and I'm a happy camper!


Indie Films: I unwind in the evenings by watching unique, creative films with depth and imagination. Favorites include The Grand Budapest Hotel, Inception, and Little Miss Sunshine.


Eco-Living: My goal is to leave as small a footprint as possible through renewable energy, zero waste, and sustainable practices. I believe we all have a duty to protect our planet.

Popular posts from this blog

The Importance And Implementation Of Chicken Coop Insulation

If you're a chicken coop owner, you know the importance of providing a comfortable and safe environment for your flock. One crucial aspect that should not be overlooked is insulation. Insulating your chicken coop offers numerous benefits that contribute to the well-being and productivity of your chickens.  Proper insulation helps regulate temperature inside the coop, keeping it warm during winter and cool in summer.  This stable climate reduces stress on your chickens, allowing them to lay more eggs consistently.  Additionally, insulation prevents drafts and moisture buildup, which can lead to respiratory issues and diseases among your flock. Choosing the right insulation materials is essential for maximum effectiveness. Factors such as durability, ease of installation, and fire resistance should be considered when making this decision. In this article, we will guide you through the process of implementing insulation in your chicken coop.  From selecting suitable materials to pra

Everything You Need to Know About Concrete Chicken Coops

 Concrete chicken coops are a popular choice for chicken owners because they are durable, easy to clean, and low-maintenance.  Concrete is a strong material that can withstand the elements, making it a good choice for coops in areas with extreme weather conditions.  It is also non-porous, which makes it easy to clean and disinfect. Concrete coops are less likely to attract pests than wooden coops, making them a good option for keeping chickens healthy.  They can be built to any size or shape, providing versatility for chicken owners. However, concrete coops can be more expensive and more difficult to construct than other types.  They can also be cold in winter, so insulation is important in colder climates. Key Considerations for Concrete Chicken Coops If you're considering a concrete chicken coop, there are a few things to keep in mind: Choosing the Right Concrete Mix Use a mix designed for outdoor use that is durable and weather resistant. The concrete should have the proper rat

Should I Use Metal Or Wood For My Chicken Run Roof?

Deciding on the right material for your chicken run roof is an important decision that can impact the safety, comfort, and longevity of your coop.  The two most popular options are metal and wood, each with their own sets of pros and cons.  Here is a detailed comparison of metal vs wood chicken run roofs to help you make the best choice. Key Factors to Consider When choosing between metal or wood, there are a few key factors to take into account: Weather Resistance - The roof needs to stand up to rain, wind, snow, and sun exposure without rotting, warping, or becoming damaged. Insulation - The roofing material impacts how well your coop holds in heat in winter and stays cool in summer. Weight - A heavier roof can make the framing and supports more complex and costly. Fire Safety - Some materials are naturally more fire-resistant. Noise - Rain, hail, and other weather can make some materials noisier. Cost - Prices vary quite a bit between metal and wood options.

Should I Use Roofing Felt Under the Shingles on a Chicken Run Roof?

If you're building a chicken run, one of the decisions you'll need to make is whether to use roofing felt under the shingles.  Roofing felt, also called tar paper, is a water-resistant material that is commonly installed under asphalt shingles or other roofing materials.  But is it necessary or beneficial for a chicken run roof? Here is a comprehensive look at the pros and cons of using roofing felt under shingles on a chicken run to help you decide. What is Roofing Felt? Roofing felt is a paper or fiberglass mat that is coated with asphalt. The asphalt coating makes it water resistant to serve as a protective barrier between the roof deck and the shingles.  There are different grades of roofing felt indicating the level of durability and weather resistance. Common grades used in residential roofing include: #15 felt - The lightest grade for use in drier climates #30 felt - The most commonly used grade for typical residential roofs #90 felt - A heavier grade for use in we

What's the Best Way to Ventilate a Chicken Run Roof?

Properly ventilating your chicken run is essential for keeping your flock happy and healthy. Good ventilation removes excess heat, moisture, and ammonia from the coop while bringing in fresh air. There are several methods you can use to ventilate a chicken run roof. The best option will depend on your climate and coop design. Why Ventilate the Roof? Ventilating the roof is important because heat and moisture rise. Without proper ventilation at the top of the coop, hot air and humidity get trapped inside.  This creates an uncomfortable environment for the chickens. Proper roof ventilation allows the hottest air to escape so cooler, drier air can enter from vents at chicken level. Roof vents also help control condensation. The warm, moist air inside the coop hits the cool roof and condenses.  This dripping water or frost buildup causes wet litter and can lead to health issues. Venting the roof prevents condensation by allowing the moisture to escape before it can form. Roof Ventilati