Chickens Yay or Nay?

[ChickensYayorNay]

As my name would suggest, I'm debating chickens. I'm sure everyone on here will say yes, but I need to do some research first before taking the plunge and figured this was a good starting point.

I live in MN on 36 acres (28 acres is a private lake) with my husband and our 9 year old Chesapeake Bay Retriever, Kali.

I also have a horse, 22 year old APHA mare named Farah that I have had since she was 2. She is fully retired now due to arthritis.

 

[sourland]

Hello, and welcome to BYC. Set your goals, study the forums and reach your decision. You already have the responsibility of animals so the addition of chickens is just an addition. Plan/prepare and if you decide to establish a flock you will be successful.

 

[592667]

Welcome!
I hope you decide to get chickens
They are the best! Such an enjoyable hobby/job to do everyday.

They are sociable, entertaining, and have such amazing personalities!

You can order chicks or started pullets (girl teenager chickens) from many hatcheries, or you could look locally.

Hope you get some chickens!

 

[Brooks_]

I agree with the above 2 posts. But with a private lake, ducks should also be considered.

 

[swampfox440]

Wood ducks and mallards Cool , I love them Welcome to BYC ! you are absolutely correct about the snapping turtles and other predators .

 

[N F C]

Hello, chickens may or may not be for you, that's something you'll have to decide. As with any other animal, there are pros and cons. For example, a pro is their delicious eggs and a con is there are few vets willing to treat an injured or ill chicken (from my experience). They do take care and it can be an expense especially starting out, but for some, having a flock is very rewarding.

 

[ChickensYayorNay]

We have actually had 4 hatches of wild ducks this summer so far - 2 Mallards and 2 Wood Ducks. First year that many have survived. Between snapping turtles, Eagles, hawks and some weasels, they don't normally survive very long. But this has been a good year! I think starting with just chickens is my best bet for now. Maybe. Probably. We'll see...

 

[Iluveggers]

Just to warn you, if you do get a few, build a coop that will fit double what you start with. Chicken math WILL happen & you’ll probably want more!

 

[drumstick diva]

What is it you want from poultry, etc? Eggs, meat, chicks to sell? That decision should help narrow the field. Check out the forums for ducks, geese, turkeys as well for something that sounds like the best fit for you.

 

[DobieLover]

Hello and welcome to BYC! Glad you joined.
I never in my life imagined I'd have chickens and I certainly didn't imagine I'd become addicted to them. I plan to have them for the rest of my life and have built my coop, run and pen to last that long.