Good news! I bought a 6-pack of these Duke dog-proof coon traps (pic1). I set on at one of the animal crossings where predators have torn the orchard fencing to crawl under. There was a fat 20lbs raccoon waiting for me this morning. Though, it did tear the crap out of the fence even further.
For anyone looking to get one of these, make sure to get the coon cuff trap set tool. It will make setting so much easier. These traps aren't cat or poultry proof. Evidently, people have had their chickens killed by them and I'd assume ducks' bills would be able to easily get caught in them. I was using a fence post, a metal T-post, with cable to secure the trap. Judging from the strength of a raccoon that size, I highly recommend using a substantial anchor for these traps.
I also reinforced my Havahart live trap door(pic2) using some small angle iron. Hopefully, it won't warp up when there's a 15lbs+ raccoon in it anymore. Though, the swinging wire that locks it may need further work.
The deep litter method, using wood shavings in the coop(pic3), is still working very well. The coop still doesn't stink and there's no dampness or dust issues. That's with over 50 birds in there at night. This is much easier than attaining straw/hay and is less work to use. It is actually cheaper in the long run too.
The pepper plants are all snug in their polytunnel now(pics4-5). They are still blooming their hearts out and producing fruit. Older fruit is just now ripening.
The ducks are doing exceptionally well(pic6). They are all nearly mature. Next week I will start separating them into 2 groups. 1 group for egg layers and 1 group for meat.
>>1604689>mushroom seasonI really need to get my act together and get my mushroom production going again. The only thing in the stores here are white/brown cap Agaricus bisporus and they are normally like D grade quality with brown spots and slimy stinky stem ends.
>>1604811>>/an/plant has more people who grow orchids if you want to try there. 