How To Raise Backyard Chickens: A Beginner's Guide

Raising backyard chickens can be an incredibly rewarding experience. Proper care and environment for baby chicks are key to making sure they grow into healthy and productive chickens. Not only do they provide a steady supply of fresh, nutrient-rich eggs, but they also offer endless entertainment and a connection to the natural world.

From navigating local regulations to ensuring your hens have the proper living conditions, there’s a lot to consider when embarking on this journey.

If you’ve been considering adding a few feathered friends to your backyard, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know to get started.

Dispelling Common Chicken-Keeping Myths

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of chicken care, let’s address some of the most common misconceptions about keeping these delightful creatures:

Myth: Chickens are dirty and smelly. This couldn’t be further from the truth! With the right coop setup and proper management, chickens can be surprisingly clean and odor-free. It’s all about providing them with the right living conditions and not overfeeding them.
Myth: You need a rooster to get eggs. Nope! Hens will lay eggs regardless of whether a rooster is present. The eggs you find in the grocery store are simply unfertilized, meaning they won’t hatch into chicks.
Myth: Chickens are noisy. While hens may let out the occasional squawk or cackle, especially when they’re about to lay an egg or are establishing their pecking order, their overall noise level is generally quite low and can easily blend into the background of daily life.
Myth: Keeping chickens is a lot of work. With the right setup and a few simple daily tasks, caring for a small flock of chickens is actually quite manageable. Collecting eggs, ensuring they have food and water, and maintaining a clean coop are the primary responsibilities.

Now with the myths out of the way, how do we get this darn thing set up!

Understanding Local Regulations and Zoning

Before you can dive headfirst into the world of chicken keeping, you’ll want to understand the local regulations and zoning laws in your area.

Some cities and municipalities may have strict rules about the number of chickens allowed, the distance the coop must be from your home or property lines, and whether roosters are permitted.

Do your research and ensure that you’re in compliance with all relevant laws and regulations. The last thing you want is to invest time and money into setting up a coop, only to have to rehome your chickens due to a violation.

Reach out to your local authorities or check your city or county’s website to learn about the specific requirements in your area.

For example the NYC.gov site has an FAQ where chickens are mentioned.

a notice on the new york government site about raising chickens in the city

Providing Ample Space for Your Flock

Chickens need both an indoor coop and an outdoor run/enclosure.
Outdoor run: Provide at least 10 square feet of space per chicken.
Indoor coop: Provide 3-5 square feet of space per chicken.
Include perches and nesting boxes in the coop.

One of the most important considerations when keeping chickens is ensuring they have enough space to thrive. Chickens need both an indoor coop and an outdoor run or enclosure to meet their needs.

For the outdoor run or enclosure, you’ll want to provide at least 10 square feet of space per chicken. Letting chickens free range allows them to naturally forage for food, resulting in healthier and happier birds, and positively impacts the environment by aiding in disease control and producing nutrient-dense eggs.

As for the indoor coop, you’ll want to aim for around 3-5 square feet of space per bird. This provides them with a cozy, protected space to roost and lay their eggs. Be sure to include perches and nesting boxes to accommodate your flock’s needs.

Chickens require good air circulation for proper ventilation to stay healthy. Look for a coop design that incorporates windows, vents, or other airflow mechanisms to keep the environment fresh and comfortable for your feathered friends.

Choosing the Right Chicken Breeds

With so many different chicken breeds to choose from, it can be difficult to figure out which egg-laying chickens are right for your flock. Consider factors like climate, egg production, and personality when making your selection.

When raising chickens, popular beginner-friendly breeds include Orpingtons, Wyandottes, and Rhode Island Reds. Orpingtons are known for their friendly, docile nature and excellent egg-laying abilities, while Wyandottes are hardy and can thrive in a variety of climates. Rhode Island Reds are a classic all-purpose breed that excel at both egg production and meat.

If you’re interested in unique egg colors, consider breeds like Lavender Orpingtons, which lay beautiful lavender-tinted eggs, or Cream Legbars, which are known for their blue-green eggs.

Regardless of the breeds you choose, be sure to purchase your chickens from a reputable hatchery or local breeder to ensure they’re healthy and well-cared for. Starting with high-quality chicks or pullets (young hens) will set your flock up for success.

Getting Your Chickens

The first step in your backyard chicken journey is to decide how you want to acquire your flock. There are a few options to consider:

Hatching Eggs: While hatching your own chicks from eggs can be a rewarding experience, it’s generally not recommended for beginners. There’s a lot of specialized equipment and knowledge required to successfully hatch and raise chicks from eggs.
Day-Old Chicks: Ordering day-old chicks from a hatchery or farm supply store is a popular choice for new chicken owners. These chicks will arrive sexed, meaning the hatchery has done their best to ensure you receive all female (hen) chicks. However, there is still a small chance you may end up with a rooster.
Ready-to-Lay Pullets: If you’re eager to start collecting eggs as soon as possible, consider purchasing ready-to-lay pullets. These are young female chickens, typically around 20 weeks old, that are just about to begin laying eggs. They cost a bit more than day-old chicks, but you’ll shave several months off the wait time for your first eggs.
Mature Hens: Another option is to acquire fully grown, already-laying hens. This can be a great choice if you have the opportunity to purchase from a friend or neighbor who is looking to rehome part of their flock. Just keep in mind that older hens may not lay as prolifically as younger birds.

No matter which route you choose, be sure to check your local city or county ordinances to ensure backyard chickens are permitted in your area, and that you understand any restrictions on the number of birds or presence of roosters.

Setting Up the Brooder

Once you’ve secured your chicks, you’ll need to set up a brooder to keep them warm, safe, and comfortable during the first few weeks of their lives. The brooder can be as simple as a large cardboard box or as elaborate as a purpose-built brooder setup.

When raising chicks, the key requirements are:

Heat Source: Chicks require a consistent temperature of around 95°F for the first two weeks, gradually decreasing by 5 degrees each week until they reach 6 weeks old. A heat lamp or heat plate can provide the necessary warmth.
Bedding: Line the bottom of the brooder with 2-3 inches of absorbent pine shavings. Avoid using cedar shavings, as they can be harmful to chicks.
Food and Water: Provide a chick starter feed and a clean, fresh water source. You can also add a probiotic supplement to the water to support their developing digestive system.
Space: Allow for about 2-3 square feet of floor space per chick in the brooder. As they grow, you may need to upgrade to a larger enclosure.

Be sure to monitor the chicks closely during the first few days, adjusting the heat source as needed to keep them comfortable. You’ll know they’re too hot if they’re huddled away from the heat, and too cold if they’re all crowded together under the lamp.

Transitioning to the Chicken Coop

Once your chicks reach 6-8 weeks old and are fully feathered, it’s time to move them into their permanent chicken coop and run. Chicken coops should provide adequate space, nesting boxes, and shelter from harsh weather and predators. The coop should provide the following:

Adequate Space: Aim for about 3-4 square feet of floor space per bird inside the coop, and 8-10 square feet per bird in the outdoor run.
Nesting Boxes: Provide 1 nesting box for every 4-5 hens, where they can lay their eggs. The boxes should be slightly larger than the chickens themselves and filled with a soft bedding material.
Roosting Bars: Install sturdy roosting bars, positioned about 2-3 feet off the ground, where the chickens can perch and sleep at night.
Ventilation: Ensure the coop has adequate airflow, with windows or vents that can be opened and closed to regulate temperature and humidity.
Predator-Proof Design: The coop and run should be constructed to keep out potential predators, such as foxes, raccoons, and coyotes.

While an elaborate, custom-built chicken coop can be a beautiful addition to your backyard, a simple, functional setup will work just fine. The most important factors are providing your chickens with a safe, comfortable, and well-ventilated environment.

Caring for Your Chickens: Daily, Weekly, and Monthly Tasks

Keeping your chickens happy and healthy doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By breaking down the necessary care into daily, weekly, and monthly routines, you can easily manage the needs of your feathered friends.

Daily Tasks

Collect eggs from the nesting boxes
Provide fresh food and water
Spend time with your chickens, observing their behavior and ensuring they’re doing well

Weekly Tasks

Check food and water levels, refilling as needed
Perform a light cleaning of the coop and run, removing any soiled bedding or debris
Inspect your chickens for any signs of illness or pests

Monthly Tasks

Conduct a more thorough cleaning of the coop, including raking out the bedding and disinfecting the surfaces
Assess the overall health and condition of your flock, addressing any issues that may arise
Maintain the outdoor run, ensuring it remains clean and free of any potential hazards

Feeding Chickens

Chickens have specific dietary needs that change as they mature. Providing proper chicken feed also improves their health and egg production. Here’s a breakdown of the different feed types and when to use them:

Starter Feed: For the first 8 weeks of life, chicks should be fed a high-protein starter feed to support their rapid growth.
Grower Feed: From 9 to 18 weeks, switch to a grower feed, which has a slightly lower protein content.
Layer Feed: Once your hens reach 19 weeks and begin laying eggs, transition them to a layer feed, which is formulated to support egg production.

There are various types of commercial chicken feed designed for different life stages, ensuring that chickens receive balanced nutrition to support their growth and egg production.

In addition to their regular feed, you can supplement your chickens’ diet with a variety of kitchen scraps and garden waste. Just be sure to avoid any foods that are toxic to chickens, such as avocado, chocolate, and green potato skins. You can also provide a source of grit, which helps chickens digest their food properly.

Water

Ensuring your chickens have access to clean, fresh water at all times is really important. You can use a simple waterer that attaches to the side of the coop or a larger, freestanding dispenser. Be sure to clean and refill the water source regularly, especially during hot weather when chickens will drink more.

Handling and Socialization

While not strictly necessary, getting your chickens accustomed to human interaction can make them more docile and easier to manage. Spend time each day gently handling and petting your birds, especially when they’re young. This will help them become more comfortable around you and less likely to be skittish.

By staying on top of these routine tasks, you’ll be able to provide your chickens with the care and attention they need to thrive. Remember, the more you interact with your flock, the more you’ll learn about their individual personalities and needs.

Egg Production and Collection

One of the most rewarding aspects of raising backyard chickens is the steady supply of fresh, nutrient-dense eggs. Here’s what you can expect:

Egg Production: On average, a healthy, mature hen will lay about 1 egg per day. However, factors like breed, age, and season can affect egg production. Older hens or those in the winter months may lay less frequently. And since the number of chickens you have increases how many eggs you can collect, and a typical family might consume around a dozen eggs weekly, you’ll want to plan accordingly.
Egg Collection: It’s best to collect eggs from the nesting boxes daily to prevent them from becoming dirty or broken. Unwashed eggs can be stored at room temperature for several weeks, while washed eggs should be refrigerated.
Egg Quality: The color and quality of your eggs will depend on your chickens’ diet. Hens that have access to a varied diet, including greens and insects, will produce eggs with vibrant, nutrient-rich yolks.

With proper care and feeding, your backyard chickens will provide you with a steady supply of delicious, farm-fresh eggs that are far superior to anything you’ll find in the grocery store.

Addressing Common Chicken Health Concerns

While chickens are generally hardy creatures, they can sometimes fall victim to various health issues or pests. Being proactive and vigilant in your chicken care can help you identify and address these concerns before they become more serious problems.

Some common health issues to watch out for include:

mites
bumblefoot
brooding hens.

Mites can cause skin irritation and feather loss, while bumblefoot is a bacterial infection that can affect a chicken’s feet. Brooding hens may become overly protective of their nests and can sometimes be a source of tension within the flock.

To prevent and manage these issues, be sure to maintain a clean and well-ventilated coop, provide a balanced diet, and regularly inspect your chickens for any signs of distress or illness. If you do encounter a health concern, consult with a veterinarian or experienced chicken keeper to determine the best course of action.

Common Challenges and Solutions

As with any animal, there are a few common challenges you may face when raising backyard chickens. Here are some tips to help you overcome them:

Predators

Protecting your flock from predators is one of the biggest concerns for chicken owners. Ensure your coop and run are well-secured, and consider adding features like motion-activated lights or alarms to deter unwanted visitors.

Illness and Injury

While chickens are generally hardy birds, they can still fall ill or sustain injuries. Keep a close eye on your flock and be prepared to isolate and treat any sick or injured birds. Maintaining a clean, stress-free environment can go a long way in preventing health issues.

Egg-Laying Issues

If your hens suddenly stop laying eggs, it could be due to a variety of factors, such as stress, molting, or changes in daylight hours. Adjusting their feed, providing supplemental lighting, or simply giving them time to adjust can often resolve the issue.

The Cost of Keeping Chickens

Chicken coop cost: Ranges from a few hundred dollars for a basic DIY model to over $10,000 for a professional, feature-rich coop.
Equipment costs: Includes feeders, waterers, and other necessary items.
Chicken cost: $5 to $100 per bird, depending on breed and age.
Optional brooding setup cost if raising from chicks.
Ongoing expenses: Feed costs $0.50 to $2 per pound, plus potential veterinary care and other supplies.

When it comes to the financial aspect of keeping chickens, there’s a wide range of potential costs to consider. At the high end, you could invest in a luxurious, custom-built coop that rivals the size of your own home. But for most backyard chicken enthusiasts, a more modest setup can be just as effective and enjoyable.

When deciding how many chickens to keep, consider factors such as egg production needs, flock dynamics, and your budget. Starting small is often recommended for beginners, with the option to expand as you become more comfortable managing your flock.

The cost of the coop itself can vary greatly, from a few hundred dollars for a basic DIY structure to upwards of $10,000 for a professionally-built, feature-rich model. Additionally, you’ll need to factor in the cost of feeders, waterers, and other necessary equipment.

As for the chickens themselves, the price can range from $5 to $100 per bird, depending on the breed and whether you’re purchasing chicks, pullets, or fully-grown hens. Remember, you may also want to factor in the cost of a brooding setup if you choose to raise your chickens from day-old chicks.

The ongoing expenses of keeping chickens include the cost of their feed, which can range from $0.50 to $2 per pound, as well as any potential veterinary care or other supplies. However, the joy and satisfaction of having a steady supply of fresh, high-quality eggs can make these costs well worth it for many chicken enthusiasts.

Final Thoughts: The Joys of Backyard Chickens

Raising backyard chickens can be a truly rewarding experience, providing you with a steady supply of fresh eggs, endless entertainment, and a deeper connection to the natural world. By following the guidance in this comprehensive guide, you’ll be well on your way to establishing a thriving backyard flock and enjoying all the benefits that come with it.

The key to successful chicken keeping is to start small, do your research, and be prepared to adapt as your flock grows and your experience expands. With a little patience and the right care, your backyard chickens will quickly become a beloved part of your family.

So why not take the plunge and welcome these feathered friends into your life? Your taste buds (and your heart) will thank you!

Happy clucking!