Slasher the ancient Araucana is looking good, but looks can be deceptive
You might remember that Slasher recovered from the stroke-like symptoms of a condition called Wry Neck, which left her paralysed for the best part of a day. She’d quickly got back on her feet, and after two or three weeks seemed completely fine, but there was more trouble ahead.
Normally reticent, Slasher began running up to me in a way that indicated she wanted feeding, but when food was offered only took small quantities and appeared to lose interest. Then she began gaping and twisting her neck, so I took her to the vet.
Continue reading your story on the app
Continue reading your story in the magazine
A Great Stress-Buster
In this month’s column, Jeremy Hobson talks to Fergus Collins – editor of the BBC Countryfile magazine and chicken enthusiast. Fergus lives in Monmouthshire.
W Is For Weather Part 2
Feathered ephemera: An eclectic alphabet of chicken facts with a difference.
The Good Eggs
Pure breeds developed for egg laying. This month: The Welsummer
The Egg Man's got it cracked
David Herbert, nicknamed The Egg Man, tells you all you need to know about showing eggs
Chick-Napper Alert
Beware the hens who have too much maternal instinct
Slasher Battles On
Slasher the ancient Araucana is looking good, but looks can be deceptive
Poultry Keeping Made Easy
Keep out! VOSS electric fence keeps poultry safe
Flock Dynamics: A Guide To Social Hierarchy
Julie Moore takes a look at how the pecking order is established
In Harmony With Nature
Susie Kearley talks to Anya Lautenbach whose home shows her love of gardening and chickens
A-Roaming We Go
Charlotte’s hens were born under a wandering star
Triple Layer Coconut Cake
This epic layer cake with a thick, buttery coconut icing will be the centerpiece of your Easter table this year.
GETTING TO KNOW CHEF FRANCISCO ALEJANDRI VAZQUEZ
He left behind the kitchens of some of the best hotels in Mexico and journeyed to Canada. Founder of acclaimed Toronto restaurant Agave y Aguacate (now closed, as he recently moved back to Mexico), he sat down with us to talk about his journey.
Gear Up Your Green Thumb
Whether you have acres of abundant backyard or a small apartment windowsill sitting in sunshine, these beautiful gardening tools and accessories will help you get growing.
bits & bites - 3 WAYS WITH CHICKPEAS
This superstar ingredient is a favorite among vegans, vegetarians and meat-eaters alike for its affordability, versatility and delicious, nutty flavor. The mighty chickpea takes center stage in these simple and nutritious Mediterranean recipes, each accompanied by a healthful dip or drizzle.
TAKE A TRIP TO FROM YOUR KITCHEN
Add some Latin flair to your cooking with these Mexican dishes in honor of Cinco de Mayo. We’ve got some favorites on the menu, plus new dishes that are so worthy of going outside the comfort zone, they’ll have you cheering, ¡Qué sabroso! (translation: how tasty!). Our acclaimed Mexican chef also shares his key ingredients and cooking hacks for the full authentic experience.
The Dutch Art of Doing Nothing & the Norwegian Love for Nature
First, there was hygge, the Danish concept of mindful, comfortable conviviality – think warm fires, fuzzy slippers and overall contentment. Now, two similar concepts, from the Dutch and the Norwegians, respectively, are gaining traction: niksen and friluftsliv.
Countryside Wellness with Marika Blossfeldt
Meet Marika Blossfeldt, founder of Polli Talu (Polli’s Farm), an Estonian wellness retreat by the gentle Baltic Sea. Guests practice mindfulness, yoga and a diet of whole, real foods. We sat down with Marika to find out how you can bring the beneficial magic of Polli Talu into your home.
TRIED AND TESTED HOTEL: ME Cabo, Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
BEST FOR World-famous views of El Arco with a beautiful stretch of beach and oceanfront pool
MICROBIOTA AND THE MIND
Did you know that chronic stress can lead to changes in your gut microbiota that can prompt depressive symptoms?
TRIED AND TESTED HOTEL: W South Beach, Miami Beach
BEST FOR Playfully chic interior décor and a happening pool scene