Brand-New to this!

[newhenmama]

Hi there! I was referred to this group by my friend, "HoneysuckleHills" - who has the most amazing chickens and coop! We have two-teenaged boys and a 3-year-old girl, who have all embraced the baby chicks (the boys doing so was quite a surprise!). I am still trying to manage the quickly-growing chicks and the space they require. Outside, we have a very large coop that was existing when we moved in. We are working quickly to ensure it is safe and secure. Any advice on how to best secure against racoons and coyotes would be appreciated, as well as how long to keep them in the house before moving them to their outside coop. Thanks, looking forward to all of what this brings!

 

[Chick_In_The_Burbs]

I can't speak much on the predators but they can go outside during the day as early as 4 weeks. An empty, secure run will work and there are also loads of ways to make fast and easy pens. Cuts down on the mess in the house and gives them sunshine and bugs. Win-win.

 

[newhenmama]

I love the idea of having them be outside during the day after 4 weeks; that would be nice for them. Hard to imagine they'll be big enough though, they're still so little!
Did I mention I think we have a ROOSTER - Not sure how to handle that one. We're allowed Roosters, but I've heard both good and bad. ??

 

[HoneysuckleHills]

I love the idea of having them be outside during the day after 4 weeks; that would be nice for them. Hard to imagine they'll be big enough though, they're still so little!
Did I mention I think we have a ROOSTER - Not sure how to handle that one. We're allowed Roosters, but I've heard both good and bad. ??

There you are! Now find the Washingtonian thread and introduce yourself to the group.

edited to add: The full name is "Washingtonians Come Together! Washington Peeps"

 

[Chick_In_The_Burbs]

I love the idea of having them be outside during the day after 4 weeks; that would be nice for them. Hard to imagine they'll be big enough though, they're still so little!
Did I mention I think we have a ROOSTER - Not sure how to handle that one. We're allowed Roosters, but I've heard both good and bad. ??

In the end a lot depends on the rooster's personality. What breed is he? Some breeds Roos have awesome reputations; like Jersey Giants, Brahmas and Favorolles. Others are flat mean and a danger to small children.

The big plus of a roo is simply that extra layer of protection for your hens. They are an alarm system and last line of defense built into one. I wish I could have one but I will have to move first. And that could be a while.