Brand New And Looking For Helpful Hints!

[newbiechix]

After considering the idea for a few years, I have finally decided to take the plunge and try my hand at raising a few backyard chickens. I have found a number of farmers around with other chicks they're willing to sell for a good price, but I don't even have my coop built yet. I'm trying to figure out how to make one with mainly free/reclaimed materials since I don't have a few hundred dollars to buy one of the fancy models I've seen online. Looking forward to taking the plunge with the support of everyone here!

 

[4-H chicken mom]

Hi and from Ohio. So glad you joined. Your coop doesn't have to be fancy just secure from predators.

 

[Kevin565]

 

[Fierlin1182]

Hello and
I wish you best of luck with your journey with chickens! You won't need a coop at first if you're getting chicks, just a brooder e.g. tub or box would be fine.
Check out the Coop Construction section of the forum to find out more about building from scratch, I know a lot of people have done it!
Enjoy the site.

 

[1muttsfan]

Hi and welcome to BYC from northern Michigan

 

[newbiechix]

Thanks everyone for the welcoming support!
I'm actually looking to get some older "chicks" mainly because the thought of raising the little things from such a young age seems complicated and I'd hate to do something wrong and hurt them. They'll probably be between 4-8 weeks old when I get them, so I wanted to get the coop up before I brought the girls home.

I did have a question as to what you do when you have to go away for a few days or want to go on vacation. I have a house cat that can easily be left to her own devices for a long weekend provided I leave out food, water, and a clean litter box. Could the same be said for chickens if they are in a secure coop/run? Or will I need to have someone stop by to take care of them even for just a few days?

 

[The Red Rooster]

 

[greymane]

 

[weimarmama]

&

from Alabama. Glad you joined us.

 

[dreamer5577]

Hi && Welcome!!!