Our chickens
We introduced chickens in our second year, starting with a flock of heritage heirloom breeds–Rhode Island Reds, Americanas, Anconas and Speckled Sussex. Over the years, we have added breeds like Andalusians and Minorcas, and this spring we’re introducing Cuckoo Marans, a breed that produces a very rich, dark brown egg.
Our chickens are Certified Humane Raised and Handled® and our eggs are certified by Baystate Organic Certifiers.
Each breed produces a specific egg color, from ivory to breathtaking shades of blue and green to earthy shades of brown and peach. Having a mixed breed and mixed age flock means we harvest eggs of all colors, shapes and sizes–they make a very eclectic dozen.
Free range
Our chickens are free range and treated with the utmost care and respect. Their diet is 100% organic, and they roam free to graze, depending on the season. When a chicken is sick, they often convalesce in the potting shed with one of us. And they live out their life in a grassy retirement community, as they should.
“I love a 5 minute soft boiled egg over salad greens.”
— Deb, Farm Manager
Debra Bain
Debra has been with us since the beginning. She manages everything from the care of the animals to our vegetable and flower gardens, including meticulous records of what and when we plant. Our team would, quite literally, be lost without her.
A conversation with Deb
Your favorite memory on the farm:
Sitting in the barn all night with Gabby the goat, in labor, while I was reading a book on goat birthing as she ripped out the pages and ate them! She gave birth to two boys at 4am on 4/15/10. Junior and Sam are still with us today.
What is the hardest farming lesson you have learned?
To never get baby chicks delivered in February, and also not to name chickens.
How do the chickens contribute to the symbiosis of the farm?
They eat bugs and provide great organic matter for composting to enrich our soil–not to mention, they provide us with great entertainment!
Is there one animal on the farm that you’re particularly fond of and why?
I love them all! I did have a favorite goat whose name was Gus. I loved that big boy–he was just very snuggly (and maybe not the smartest).
What’s your favorite way to eat an egg from Salmon Kill Farm, or a favorite recipe you use them in?
I love a 5 minute soft boiled egg over salad greens.