Complete Newbie

[Vera_L]

Hi. I don't have backyard chickens yet, but I'd like to. I live suburban house, in Pasadena, California -- a city that has allows hens only. I joined to learn how to care for hens once I get them -- and where to get them once I'm ready. I'd like to benefit from their eggs and guano, and would like to learn how to keep odors down so I don't bother my neighbors. Looking forward to participating....

 

[FrankieDoodle]

Welcome to BYC!!!

 

[Joeschooks]

There’s so many helpful, knowledgeable folks here and I’m sure you’ll find this site a very useful resource. I have never had a problem with odours. I use deep litter in the coop and hardwood woodchip in the run. Hope this helps

 

[Vera_L]

There’s so many helpful, knowledgeable folks here and I’m sure you’ll find this site a very useful resource. I have never had a problem with odours. I use deep litter in the coop and hardwood woodchip in the run. Hope this helps

Thanks for the tip!

 

[Kiki]

Welcome! We are glad you joined our flock!
Jump right in and make yourself at home.

This video will help you learn how to navigate this site:

Coop Ideas:
Chicken Coops

BYC has an APP!

 

[drumstick diva]

I've hear some people use something called Stall-dri or PDZ (I believe) to keep odors in check. Plus frequent cleaning helps as well.

 

[007Sean]

Howdy

Welcome to Backyard Chickens. Enjoy your time here with us!

 

[4 ever Orpington]

Hi. I don't have backyard chickens yet, but I'd like to. I live suburban house, in Pasadena, California -- a city that has allows hens only. I joined to learn how to care for hens once I get them -- and where to get them once I'm ready. I'd like to benefit from their eggs and guano, and would like to learn how to keep odors down so I don't bother my neighbors. Looking forward to participating....

 

[bajabirdbrain]

Welcome!!! Oh boy, a new start to some fun posting for you and us. We ordered chicks from Meyer's Hatchery in Ohio. We did this as we wanted a variety of breeds and this allowed us lots of freedom in our choices. However, we ordered our chicks in January for delivery end of March and we got 16 and gave away 5. That was the minimum order before April 1st due to weather and shipping. Our local feed stores have a nice selection starting in the spring, so either can work.

As far as odor is concerned, our 13 months of housing 11 girls has not had any odor issues. We use sand in the coop, poop boards below the roosts, we add sand to the run as needed to keep the dirt sort of level. We pick up poop at least once per DAY and often twice. IMO this is the key to no odor and no flies. We put the poop in a covered trash can and as it gets heavy we wheelbarrow it to a remote spot for dumping and composting our limb and brush in a pile. Not sure what you would due in Pasadena??

Anyway, BYC has more info and opinions than you can absorb. Just ask and you will learn lots. Good luck on your quest.