Raising backyard chickens has become an increasingly popular trend as more people recognize the benefits of having fresh, nutritious eggs at home.
Not only do backyard chickens provide a sustainable food source, but they also serve as fun, low-maintenance pets for families and individuals alike. Chickens are easy to care for and rewarding to raise, which makes them an ideal choice for beginners looking to dip their toes into the world of urban farming.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the essentials of raising backyard chickens, such as selecting the right breed, setting up proper housing, and providing adequate nutrition. With the right knowledge and resources, anyone can embark on the rewarding journey of backyard chicken-keeping.
Benefits of Raising Chickens
Food
One of the advantages of raising chickens is the production of fresh eggs. Chickens like Leghorns, Araucana, Wyandotte, Rhode Island Red, and Orpington are known for their prolific egg-laying abilities.
Free-range chickens can provide high-quality eggs, and you can have more control over their diet, leading to healthier eggs for your family.
Fertilizer
Chicken manure can be composted and used as an organic fertilizer. This free fertilizer can greatly improve the health of your garden, and composting the chicken poo can help control odors and manage waste.
Pest-Control
Chickens can also help control pests in your yard. They eat insects like flies and mosquitoes, keeping the bug population under control. This natural and organic pest control method is an excellent alternative to using harmful chemicals.
Challenges of Raising Chickens
Time & Materials Required
Raising chickens requires a time commitment. Chickens need daily care, including feeding, watering, and cleaning of their living area. Ensure you are prepared for this responsibility before starting your chicken-keeping journey.
You’ll also need to provide your chickens with a suitable coop. The coop should be spacious, well-ventilated, and secure from predators.
Some backyard chicken keepers choose to build their own coops, while others purchase pre-made ones. Don’t forget to consider the cost of maintaining and repairing the coop over time.
Disease
Potential diseases can be a concern, but the National Poultry Improvement Plan (NPIP) offers guidelines for maintaining the health of your flock. Following these guidelines and regularly monitoring the well-being of your chickens can help you prevent or quickly address any health issues that may arise.
Area Restrictions
Before you make plans to build a coop and purchase chicks, you’ll need to check local laws and regulations regarding backyard chickens. Some areas may restrict the number of chickens you can keep, coop sizes, and other chicken-keeping regulations.
Getting Started With Raising Chickens
Creating a Suitable Environment
Before starting your journey into raising backyard chickens, it’s essential to create a suitable environment for them.
First, consider the purpose of raising the chickens, whether it’s for eggs, meat, or just as pets. Then, find a location in your yard that provides enough space for a coop and a run. Keep in mind that chickens generally require about four square feet per bird inside the coop and an additional 10 square feet per bird in their enclosed run. This space helps ensure their comfort and safety.
It’s important to check if there are any restrictions or regulations in your urban or suburban area regarding raising backyard chickens. Some cities may have specific limitations, so research and comply with these rules to avoid any issues. Next, look for a local hatchery or farm store to purchase your chicks. The costs for raising chicks will vary depending on factors such as the breed, feed, and housing materials.
Protection Against Predators
Providing protection against predators is a vital aspect of raising chickens in your backyard. To ensure the safety of your flock, consider the following precautions:
- Enclose the run: Construct a secure, enclosed run with sturdy wire fencing that extends at least 2 feet below the ground. This will help keep predators such as raccoons, foxes, and birds of prey from digging underneath the fence or swooping in from above.
- Lock up the coop: When raising baby chicks, it’s essential to have a secure coop with a solid roof, walls, and doors, as well as locks or latches to keep predators out. Make it a habit to lock up the coop each night.
- Invest in predator-proof hardware: Even small gaps or weak points in your chicken housing can provide an opportunity for predators to break in. Use durable hardware, such as predator-proof latches, to ensure your flock’s safety.
- Guard animals: If you have the space and resources to care for an additional animal, consider adding a livestock guardian dog, or even a goose or donkey, to your property. These animals often act as a deterrent to chicken predators.
Health and Wellbeing of Chickens
Understanding the Diet of Chickens
To ensure the health of your flock, provide a balanced diet that includes an appropriate mix of proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals.
Commercial chicken feeds are available and formulated to meet the nutritional requirements of your birds at various stages of their lives. Supplement their diet with grains, vegetables, and fruits to ensure a diverse and nutritious diet. Additionally, provide clean water daily and ensure it’s always accessible for your chickens.
Understanding the Behavior of Chickens
Healthy chickens are active and spend their time foraging, taking dust baths, and preening. They should be responsive and display natural curiosity. Be mindful of any changes in behavior, such as lethargy, loss of appetite, or social withdrawal, as these can be signs of underlying health issues.
Regularly check your flock for signs of illness, such as changes in feathers, swelling, or discharge from the eyes or nostrils. If you suspect that one of your chickens is sick, it is essential to consult with a veterinarian for advice on diagnosis and proper treatments.
Egg Production and Breeding
Breeding backyard chickens for egg production can provide owners with fresh eggs daily. It is important to select the right breed and provide an optimal environment for chickens to thrive and produce eggs.
Egg-laying breeds, such as Leghorns and Australorps, have been bred to produce large quantities of eggs in their relatively short production lifetimes.
Most backyard flocks will produce eggs consistently for three to four years, with the egg production level decreasing each year as the chicken ages. In addition, egg size increases and shell quality decreases each year.
To maintain a constant supply of fresh eggs, backyard chicken keepers can focus on properly raising their chickens and optimizing their surroundings. Chickens need 12 to 14 hours of daylight to maintain consistent egg production, which often occurs through spring, summer, and into the fall. Collecting eggs daily, or even twice a day, can help prevent issues with egg quality, such as cracks or breakages.
Breeding chickens for increased egg production involves selecting the best layers among your flock and hatching their eggs.
When incubating eggs, ensure a controlled environment with proper temperature and humidity, as it will help increase the chances of successful hatching. Observe the size and appearance of the eggs you are incubating, as selecting larger and better-looking eggs can potentially result in better layers.
Care and Maintenance
Caring for backyard chickens requires daily attention to ensure that they are healthy and comfortable. In the morning, make it a habit to check on their food and water supply. Chickens need fresh water daily; each chicken needs approximately a pint of water. It is essential to keep their water clean, as chickens can get dehydrated quickly, and dirty water can lead to health problems.
During the day, chickens love rummaging for food by scratching in their designated area. Providing space for scratching can keep the birds engaged and can even benefit your garden.
Chickens also need access to a dust bath. Dust baths help chickens clean themselves and prevent parasites like mites and lice. You can provide a dust bath by offering a container or designated area filled with a mixture of fine sand and diatomaceous earth.
The afternoon is an ideal time for cleaning. Regular cleaning, especially in and around the coop, is essential for maintaining a healthy flock. Remove droppings, soiled bedding, and any leftover food daily. This helps prevent the growth of bacteria and keeps the coop smelling fresh.
Around once a week, a more thorough cleaning is recommended, including scrubbing the waterers with soap and water to prevent algae growth.
By consistently following these care and maintenance steps, you can keep your backyard chickens happy, healthy, and productive.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do I need to know before starting with backyard chickens?
Before getting your chicks or chickens, consider the purpose of raising them, whether it be for eggs, meat, or pleasure. Figure out where you will house them and if you are ready to invest time in their care and maintenance. Be prepared to clean their coop regularly and make arrangements for their care while you’re away on vacation.
How many chickens should a beginner start with?
For beginners, it’s best to start with a small number of chickens, typically between 3 to 6 birds. This allows you to learn about their needs and behavior without being overwhelmed. As you gain experience, you may decide to add more birds to your flock.
How to take care of chickens during winter?
During winter, the main concern is keeping your chickens warm and ensuring they have access to fresh, unfrozen water. Provide adequate insulation to their coop and make sure it is well-ventilated but not drafty. A large flat pan of water placed on a heated pad can help prevent freezing. Be sure to monitor your chickens regularly for signs of frostbite or illness during cold months and adjust their care as needed.
Do I need a rooster for my hens to lay eggs?
No, a rooster is not necessary for hens to lay eggs. Hens will lay eggs without fertilization from a rooster. However, if you want to hatch your own chicks, a rooster is necessary to fertilize the eggs. Remember that roosters may be noisy and can create potential legal issues in some residential areas.
Time to Raise Some Backyard Chickens
Raising backyard chickens may seem a little daunting at first, but once you take the plunge, you’ll absolutely love having your very own flock right in your backyard! Backyard chickens are easy to care for, provide fresh food, and are super cute! So start building that coop–it’s time to raise some backyard chickens!
Before you go, be sure to check out this post on Choosing the Best Backyard Chickens for your flock!
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Matt Cunningham, co-founder of Minneopa Orchards alongside his brother Ryan, is a steward of the land with roots deeply embedded in the farming life. Raised on a farm with both parents imparting their love for agriculture—his father a farmer and his mother a gardener. Matt’s orchard and vineyard journey has blossomed into Minneopa Orchards – dedicated to sharing the joy of growing food with a community of like-minded enthusiasts.