Can I just get a basic rundown of proper diet, for a total newbie?

[SmittenChickens]

That should be good on the grit.

. If your going to just have sand though you should probably provide a box of dirt too so they can properly dust bathe.
~~~Ms.B.

Oh ok, I didn't know that! Thanks!

 

[SmittenChickens]

Yeah, my run is all sand too so my girls don't need extra even if they weren't part time free range. Sand is also a good floor because it acts as a giant cat litter box and there is way less messy slick poo everywhere because it gets covered and then disintegrates.
Are you sure you don't want to consider part-time free ranging? I live in the city and it's totally manageable. It's better on your hens and feed bill. If you can't swing it, make sure that your girls have PLENTY of room in the run, it's completely fenced and protected and that they get plenty of green scraps and things to entertain them. Confined hens will easily get bored and can lead to a slew of other problems if there isn't enough room or things to do.

Yes, I'm sure. I have too many neighbors that let their dogs roam the neighborhood loose (grrrr!) to feel comfortable letting them out free range. I'd be heartbroken if one of them got attacked by a dog.

They will have a large run... 10 ft x 5 ft, so 50 sq ft. For 2 or 3 bantams. I am planning on letting them out into the yard in a moveable pen/cage or something so they can get some grass and a change of scenery, while still being protected and supervised.

 

[blondiebee181]

Yes, I'm sure. I have too many neighbors that let their dogs roam the neighborhood loose (grrrr!) to feel comfortable letting them out free range. I'd be heartbroken if one of them got attacked by a dog.

They will have a large run... 10 ft x 5 ft, so 50 sq ft. For 2 or 3 bantams. I am planning on letting them out into the yard in a moveable pen/cage or something so they can get some grass and a change of scenery, while still being protected and supervised.

Sounds like you have some good ideas for them.

 

[SmittenChickens]

Sounds like you have some good ideas for them.

I thought about making them little chicken sized suits of armor... and teaching them some ninja self-defense moves... but I thought perhaps a moveable pen/run might be easier. LOL!!!

 

[blondiebee181]

I thought about making them little chicken sized suits of armor... and teaching them some ninja self-defense moves... but I thought perhaps a moveable pen/run might be easier. LOL!!!

Wahahaaaa! So cute!