Can chickens be left alone for a week, only being checked on 2-3 times a week?

[CarterEads]

I was thinking about getting chickens and was wondering if chickens could be left for a week with only being checked on 2-3 times a week to collect eggs, feed the chickens, and give them fresh water. Would they be alright? I would have a chicken coop and a HUGE run with a covered top so they would have plenty of room and would stay safe throughout the week.

 

[MeepBeep]

As long as they have fresh water and food sure...

Although anytime you don't secure them in a coop at night and leave the run open you risk predator attacks...

 

[nab58]

You can make the run secure with 1/2 " hardware cloth all around and buried 18" deep. I've been leaving the pop door open to the run so the chickens can get out on their own at dawn. I know I have raccoons and opossum but no sign of attempted break ins.

 

[CarterEads]

Thank you both! I live in TX and I have hawks and other wild animals so I think I'm just going to make a very big run instead of risking the chickens death with free-ranging, but when I'm there I will let them free range!

Always open to other comments too!

 

[TaraBellaBirds]

I have 32 birds of varying ages, plus 2 week old meaties in the brooder. We just went on vacation for a week, but we are lucky that we have a freind that has a bit of chicken experiance that checks on them at least once a day. With automactic feeders and waterers they wouldn't even need that much!