Chicken Coop ready, now what!?

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Get some chicks! If you are going to get chicks then make sure you have a brooder (with food, water, and a heat lamp). If you are getting adult birds then put them right in the coop with food and water.

For a starter flock I recommend: Ameraucanas/Easter Eggers, Rhode Island Reds, Orpingtons, Brahmas, Cochins and Sussex. IMO, those are the most friendly, most cold hardy, and best (not production) egg layers. Besides, you get a variety of egg colors and a variety of different color birds.

Whatever you choose, have fun!
 
Agree on getting a flock of mixed breeds. Easily telling the birds apart allows you to see their individual personalities. And that's a big part of the chicken fun! :D

Snoop around in the learning center articles here on BYC to see what small chicks need. The raising baby chicks forum also holds a lot of information and good people.

Good luck with your new friends! :thumbsup
 
DobieLover said:
What are your goals with your chickens? Do you want lots of eggs or are you a cuddler and want chickens that will allow you to pick them up and pet them? Or something in between?
Once you determine what you want, chose a breed or breeds that are suited to your environment.
How big is your coop and run? Will they be free ranged? You will need a run that can be winterized for use during your Michigan winters. All this will determine the number of birds you should get.
You will need a feeder(s) and a waterer. You will want something that will be easy to keep clean and keep the chickens out and off of.
Chickens like to perch on things to preen and nap throughout the day. Provide that in their run space.
They will need a place to dust bathe. They also love to sun bathe. Provide locations for these.
Choose a reputable hatchery near you and select the breed(s) you think fit your needs and environment. I have used and approve of Meyer Hatchery. When purchasing from a hatchery, you can opt to have them vaccinated against Marek's. You can also find someone local selling chicks but they will more than likely not be vaccinated.
I also recommend that you have liquid Corid, Poutry Nutri-drench and electrolytes on hand so you don't have to rush out for them when they are needed.
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Wow, thank you SO much!! Great information :)
 
the cluck juggler said:
Agree on getting a flock of mixed breeds. Easily telling the birds apart allows you to see their individual personalities. And that's a big part of the chicken fun! :D

Snoop around in the learning center articles here on BYC to see what small chicks need. The raising baby chicks forum also holds a lot of information and good people.

Good luck with your new friends! :thumbsup
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Thank you this is great advise!! :)
 
SBFChickenGirl said:
Get some chicks! If you are going to get chicks then make sure you have a brooder (with food, water, and a heat lamp). If you are getting adult birds then put them right in the coop with food and water.

For a starter flock I recommend: Ameraucanas/Easter Eggers, Rhode Island Reds, Orpingtons, Brahmas, Cochins and Sussex. IMO, those are the most friendly, most cold hardy, and best (not production) egg layers. Besides, you get a variety of egg colors and a variety of different color birds.

Whatever you choose, have fun!
Click to expand...
Thank you very much! Great advice and I love your quote!! :)
 
Welcome :welcome Nice to have you here! I have a mixed flock, so many breeds to choose from :)
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