Raising chickens in your backyard can be a rewarding experience, providing you with fresh, delicious eggs and hours of entertainment. But before you dive into coop construction and chick selection, here’s a beginner’s guide to get you started:
1. Check Your Local Laws:
* Not all cities and counties allow backyard chickens. Before you get your heart set on a flock, research local ordinances to ensure keeping chickens is legal in your area.
* Think about how many eggs you’d like to collect and how much space you have available. Chickens typically need 3-4 square feet of coop space per bird, and plenty of room to roam outdoors.
3. Prepare the Coop:
* Your coop should be a safe haven for your chickens, protecting them from predators and the elements. Provide adequate ventilation, nesting boxes, roosting bars, and a deep layer of bedding for chicks or adult hens.
4. Chicks or Adult Hens?
* Deciding whether to start with chicks or adult hens depends on your preference. Chicks are adorable, but require more care. Adult hens will start laying eggs sooner.
5. Feeding Your Flock:
* A balanced diet is vital for healthy chickens. Chicks have different needs than adult hens. Provide a commercial feed appropriate for their age, along with fresh water, grit, and oyster shells.
6. Keeping Your Chickens Safe:
* A secure coop is essential to protect your flock from predators like foxes, hawks, and raccoons. Regularly check the coop for weaknesses and repair any breaches.
7. Enjoy Fresh Eggs!
* Once your hens reach maturity, you’ll be rewarded with fresh, delicious eggs. The eggs will typically have deeper orange yolks than store-bought eggs.
