Roughly 10 million American homes (3% of US households) raise chickens. Are you ready to be one of them? Raising chickens requires a bit of work, as does raising any type of animal.
The benefits, however, are well worth the effort. A healthy flock of chickens will help keep garden pests at a minimum while supplying you with fresh eggs. They’ll even supply you with fertilizer to promote a healthy lawn!
Before you start collecting chickens in a backyard chicken coop though, there are a few things you should know. Continue reading for a list of ways to become a knowledgeable chicken owner!
Check the State/Local Laws
Before you go any further in this process, stop and check your state/local laws. Not all cities allow homeowners to keep chickens in their yards. There might also be laws regarding how many chickens you’re allowed to raise.
Visit your city’s official website and read through the city code. Otherwise, contact your local authorities for more information. This prevents you from wasting time and money.
Choose the Type of Chicken
Once you’re in the clear, you can then decide what type of chickens you want to raise. There are several types of chickens and the kind you choose should reflect your main reason for raising them in the first place. For example, there are chicken breeds ideal for laying eggs, and others are ideal for quality meat.
Once you determine which type of chicken breed you want to raise, you’ll then need to research it further. Learn everything you can about the breed so you can then purchase the right supplies required.
Find a Local Farmer or Hatchery
Now it’s time to purchase your chickens. You’ll want to find a local farmer or hatchery to purchase your chickens from. You can also sometimes find chickens for purchase at farm supply stores.
When selecting your buyer, make sure to read reviews and ask for references to ensure you’re making the right decision. Don’t forget to look for signs of an unhealthy chicken as well.
Chickens that are lethargic, have eye or nasal discharge, and are unwilling to move around might not be well. Avoid purchasing chickens in this state, as you’ll want healthy and happy ones.
Buy the Required Chicken Supplies
You want to bring your chickens home to a cozy chicken coop with all the required chicken supplies. You’ll need to research chicken food/chicken feed specifically for the type of chicken you’re raising. You’ll also need to provide them with fresh, clean water every day using ground waterers.
The size of the coop will depend on how many chickens you need. There’s a specific amount of space required per chicken. The coop also needs to keep chickens secure at night, safe from predators.
You’ll also want a coop that’s waterproof with proper ventilation, connected to an outside roaming area, and able to hold a decent size nesting area.
Let’s Start a Chicken Coop
Raising chickens comes with many benefits. It also comes with a few challenges. Over time, you’ll soon learn how to raise healthy chickens.
Use all of the information given above to start the process. Together, we can start a chicken coop!
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