Backyard chicken-keeping is a rewarding hobby. It provides fresh eggs. If you want to reduce food waste, teach children about nature, or find a new interest, it’s easy to start small. Here’s a step-by-step guide from experts to help you get started.
Feed Them Well:
Supply your chickens with good layer feed and supplement with some kitchen scraps or greens for variety. Don’t forget to throw in some crushed oyster shells for extra calcium.
Build a Good Coop:
Providing your chickens with a clean, dry, and safe roosting place is a must. They like space—about 2-3 square feet of it per chicken.
Sufficient Lighting:
Chickens need 14-16 hours of light. Keeping one lit during winter ensures they keep laying.
Keep Them Calm:
Chickens will lay well if they are comfortable and not under stress. Give them ample room to roam about and ensure them that they have access to dirt for dusting.
Coop Cleaning:
Clean the coop often to get rid of the waste and other unwanted animals.
Provide Fresh Water:
Ensure that there is always fresh water for your chickens to drink.
These small tips will ensure your chickens are healthy and laying eggs!
Step 1: Know Your Local Rules.
Before buying chickens, check local zoning and neighborhood rules. Some areas limit the number of chickens, prohibit roosters, or need permits. Researching these rules will save you future headaches.
Step 2: Plan Your Flock
Decide the number of chickens you want to start with and which breeds will help you achieve your purposes. Some are bred specifically for laying more eggs, such as Rhode Island Reds, or have friendly personalities, like Silkies. Start with 3–6 chickens for a manageable number as a beginner.
Step 3: Build a Coop
Your chickens will require a safe and comfortable coop to roost, lay eggs, and keep safe from predators.
Coop Must Haves:
Space: Ensure there is at least 3–4 square feet of space per chicken inside the coop and 10 square feet in an outdoor run.
Nesting Boxes: Ensure there is at least one nesting box for every 3–4 hens.
Perches: Chickens love roosting at night; include perches inside the coop.
Ventilation: Proper airflow must exist to help dry and odor-free the coop.
Predator Proofing: Sturdy materials and secure latches will keep predators away.
Step 4: Quality Feed
Healthy chickens depend on the quality of feed. Chick starter feed is provided initially, when the chick’s commences to lay eggs, it’s onto layer feed. Fresh water must always be available, plus an occasional treat or two, and grit to help with digestion.
Feed Recommendations:
Chick Starter Feed: High protein to grow chicks
Layer Feed: Has calcium to build strong eggshells.
Scratch Grains and Treats: Feed in moderation as an indulgence.
For more specific information on feeding your flock,
Step 5: Start with Chicks
You can begin to raise baby chicks or older pullets (young hens). Chicks need extra care, with a warm brooder, while pullets are ready to go right into a coop. Pick what works for your schedule and your comfort level.
Step 6: Care for Your Flock
It’s easy to care for chickens, but continuity counts.
Daily Routine
Ensure fresh water and new feed for the chickens.
Collect eggs often to avoid spoilage.
Look for sicknesses, such as lethargy or off behavior.
Weekly Routine
Clean the coop to replace bedding.
Check for signs of predators and pests.
Step 7: Enjoy the Rewards
Backyard chickens bring so many rewards. For starters, there’s the fresh, wholesome eggs-but then there’s also the joy of watching your flock forage and play. These birds quickly become loved members of the family household.
Getting started on a chicken-keeping journey may seem daunting, but preparation makes it a very fulfilling and enjoyable experience. Your feathered friends will thank you!