The California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) has imposed a sweeping ban on poultry and dairy cattle exhibitions, this time citing fears of H5N1 avian influenza. If this feels like déjà vu, that’s because we’ve seen this playbook before.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the government shut down businesses it arbitrarily deemed “nonessential,” crippling livelihoods and communities under the guise of public safety.

Now, they are targeting farmers, youth organizations, and small-scale agricultural exhibitors.

This isn’t just about bird flu—it’s about a growing pattern of overreach where freedom is sacrificed for an illusion of security. We’re watching a replay, folks, and as Benjamin Franklin once warned, “Those who would give up essential Liberty, to purchase a little temporary Safety, deserve neither Liberty nor Safety.” It’s time to stand up and challenge this dangerous precedent.

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Unproven Claims and Flawed Justifications

The CDFA’s decision hinges on the claim that exhibitions significantly contribute to the spread of H5N1. However, the data fails to substantiate this assertion. Avian influenza is overwhelmingly spread by wild birds, not through the controlled environments of exhibitions. In fact, exhibitors typically maintain high biosecurity standards, such as pre-show health inspections, strict isolation protocols, and vaccination records, far exceeding those of non-exhibition environments. Without direct evidence linking exhibitions to the outbreak, the ban appears to be a reactive and unjustified measure rather than a targeted or effective solution.

Punishing Small Farmers and Communities

This policy disproportionately targets small-scale farmers, youth organizations like 4-H, and backyard poultry keepers who rely on fairs and exhibitions to showcase their animals, educate the public, and sustain their livelihoods. By contrast, large commercial operations remain relatively unaffected.

The ban undermines the economic viability of small farmers and erodes agricultural education and community-building efforts. Fairs and livestock shows are crucial spaces where future generations learn about farming practices, animal husbandry, and food production. By shutting down these events, the CDFA harms today’s farmers and discourages tomorrow’s.

These steps could effectively mitigate risk while preserving the rights of farmers and exhibitors. Instead, the CDFA has chosen the path of least resistance—one that tramples individual freedoms under a blanket policy.

Economic Devastation and Community Loss

The economic impact of this decision cannot be overstated. Rural economies depend on fairs and exhibitions as a source of income for farmers and local businesses that rely on tourism and event-related spending. Vendors, organizers, and service providers are all collateral damage in this poorly conceived policy.

Equally troubling is the loss of community. Livestock shows and agricultural fairs are more than just economic drivers—they are cultural touchstones. These events foster connections, educate the public, and strengthen ties between rural and urban communities. The CDFA’s ban threatens to erode these bonds, leaving a void that cannot easily be filled.

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A Dangerous Precedent of Overreach

This policy concerns more than one disease or industry. It represents a broader pattern of government overreach, in which fear is used to justify stripping individuals of their rights. If we allow the CDFA to dictate when and where animals can be shown without evidence or consultation, what freedoms will be taken next?

The government’s role is to protect rights, not curtail them. The Constitution guarantees property rights, freedom of assembly, and due process—rights undermined by this policy. It is not the role of the government to treat farmers and exhibitors as scapegoats for a problem they did not cause.

This ban must be rescinded immediately. Farmers, exhibitors, and agricultural advocates must hold the CDFA accountable for its unjustified and unconstitutional actions. The agency must implement reasonable, evidence-based alternatives that balance public safety with individual rights and the agricultural community's needs.

Let us remember Franklin’s warning and refuse to surrender our liberty for an illusion of safety. The health of California’s agricultural sector—and the rights of its people—depends on it. The fight to protect freedom, property, and community must continue because once liberty is sacrificed, it is rarely regained.

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So far, I’ve found four of these twin-filled eggs. I had no idea they were double-yolked until I candled them, so it’s not like I was taking a chance—Mother Nature just threw this curveball my way.

She shares her pen with other Silkies and my Easter Eggers. The two roosters in the mix? A massive Egger who looks like he moonlights as a bodyguard and a decent-sized Silkie who carries himself like a rockstar despite his size.

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Either this girl’s breaking the mold, or we’re about to learn why double-yolked eggs usually don’t make it far in the hatching game. Still, as she’s gone, broody, these are likely her final contributions for now. That means the stakes are high.

What We’ve Got So Far

Egg #1 is a little over a week along. Day 10, to be exact. When I candled it, my heart skipped a beat seeing both embryos alive and moving. It’s almost surreal, like watching a tiny, glowing dance performance inside the shell.

Eggs #2 and #3, just a few days ahead on Day 12, show the same promise—two distinct lives wiggling around. Then there’s Egg #4, the real nail-biter. On Day 17, it’s nearly impossible to see much inside due to how developed it is. But this one’s on lockdown until Day 21, the big moment of truth—or the moment of chirps. The suspense is equal parts thrilling and nerve-wracking. Every day, I wonder if I’m witnessing a miracle or Mother Nature’s way of reminding me not to get too comfortable.

The Odds of Success: A Rare Phenomenon

The occurrence of two chicks hatching from a single egg is an exceptionally rare event, both historically and in modern times. This phenomenon typically involves a double-yolked egg, where two yolks are encased within one shell. While such eggs can develop two embryos, the likelihood of both chicks surviving to hatch is exceedingly low due to spatial constraints and limited resources within the egg.

In a study where 208 double-yolked chicken eggs were incubated, over 64% of the embryos died within the first seven days. Only two eggs reached the pipping stage, and just one successfully hatched, yielding twin chicks. These sobering statistics highlight just how remarkable it would be to see even one of my twin embryos make it to hatch day.

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Why Is This Happening?

Honestly, I’m not sure. It could be genetic—maybe something unique about my Silkie, Belinda, or the roosters’ contributions. Silkies are known for their broodiness and maternal instincts, so perhaps this hen’s body thought, “Why not give it a shot?”

Some studies suggest that younger hens or those with a high protein diet are more likely to lay double-yolked eggs, but it’s rare for those eggs to be fertilized and develop.

For context, I feed my laying chickens a 22% protein diet. If these eggs hatch and this protein boost proves to be a factor, I might drop the name brand here—if they decide to sponsor CoopNSeethe. (Hey, a chicken keeper can dream, right?)

What’s Next?

For now, it’s a waiting game. Egg #4 is nearing the finish line, and the suspense is killing me. It’ll be a big win for chicken enthusiasts everywhere if it hatches. If not, it’s still a fascinating journey and a testament to the unpredictable wonder of nature. I’ll be candling the earlier eggs daily and will keep you posted on their progress. Fingers crossed that we’ll see tiny beaks and hear chirps soon.

Stay Tuned!

This journey is far from over. Whether these chicks make it or not, they’re a reminder of why raising chickens is both humbling and exhilarating. Subscribe and follow along at CoopNSeethe.com to see how this experiment unfolds. Will we witness a backyard chicken miracle? You’ll have to stay tuned to find out.

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At CoopNSeethe, we believe chickens represent more than fresh eggs and sustainable living. They’re a symbol of independence, self-reliance, and the right to control your own property. Owning and raising chickens is a powerful statement about personal freedom, and we’re here to help you protect that right while deepening your understanding of these fantastic birds.

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What can you expect from CoopNSeethe?

- Insightful blog posts about the intersection of chicken ownership and liberty, property rights, and self-sustainability.

Engaging podcast episodes in which we tackle the legal and political issues surrounding chicken ownership and share stories of individuals who have fought for their rights.

- Educational content on raising chickens, caring for different breeds, and understanding their behaviors and needs. Whether you're interested in Easter Eggers or other heritage breeds, we’ll provide tips and resources to help you succeed.

- Our personal journey as chicken owners, from starting with our first flock to navigating the challenges and joys of raising chickens. We’ll share the ups and downs, the lessons learned, and everything in between.

We created CoopNSeethe because we saw the growing need for a space that combines a love for chickens with a passion for defending individual liberties. Through our blog and podcast, we aim to equip fellow chicken owners with the knowledge, community, and support they need to thrive—both in their coops and in their fight for freedom.

Why CoopNSeethe?  

It’s not just about chickens—it’s about the liberty to live however you choose. We’re dedicated to sharing educational insights and stories of perseverance from chicken owners who’ve stood up to government interference. Whether you’re looking for practical advice or inspiration to protect your rights, CoopNSeethe is your go-to resource.

Thank you for joining us. Stay tuned for blog posts, podcast episodes, and updates as we continue to explore how chickens are a path to liberty for individuals—one coop at a time. Be sure to follow @CoopNSeethe on X, also known as Twitter.

Welcome to CoopNSeethe!

Doni & Jeff Charles  

Founders of CoopNSeethe

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