Chicken Newbie

ZenHouse

Hatching
Jun 15, 2025
1
7
9
We live in Western Washington and are completely new to raising backyard chickens. I'm currently researching how to build our coop (I'm experienced in carpentry) and run before getting chicks (and all that is required for that!).

We will be starting with 4 Orpington chickens as I'm told those are the "easiest" to start with. I think I'm MOST concerned with keeping them warm in the winter and proper ventilation throughout the year.

I'm also very interested in using fly netting over the run so if anyone has ideas or thoughts on that please share!

This is mostly an endeavor for my daughter (20 yrs old) and I who LOVES birds. I can't wait to get started before Fall!

We currently have one 9 year old Newfoundland and hoping to rehome a sweet 4 year old Newf. We have always been dog owners and looking forward to training our pups to be good friends to our chickens.

Our backyard is pretty flat and dry. We are on 3.5 acres - half is wooded. We do have coyote and bear sightings so we're very serious about keeping the chickens safe!
 
Hiya, and welcome to BYC! :frow

Here is our Coop Forum.
You can get lots of great ideas there. 1/2" hardware cloth is what's recommended to be used for runs, over coop windows, etc., as that, when installed properly, can keep everything out, albeit maybe not a bear. Electrified poultry netting you may want to look into too.

We're glad you're here!
 
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