Complete Newbie

[amlin1a]

So I decided that I want to have a chicken coop with a couple of chickens that lay eggs. I was thinking of starting with 4 chickens.

I have taken an old rabbit hutch and am in the process of converting it into a coop. One half of this hutch is all wood and then the other half has an open area that was covered with screen. I have removed the screen section so that there is a nice size opening for the chickens.

The top opens up in two places, where I was thinking it would be easy access to collect eggs. I am also putting a 'ramp' with wood slates nailed to it, for the chickens to walk up to get into the hutch area. I plan to use chicken wire to create a run off the front of the hutch.

I have no idea what type of chickens to get, I have no idea what to feed them outside of chicken feed from the feed store. I read somewhere about putting a litter box that had sand in it to help control chicken lice, so I was planning on doing that. But I also don't know whether to put straw inside the nesting area or what. Any advice or tips would be appreciated.

I live in northern Utah, so I will have the cold winters to deal with as well.
thanks in advance!

Sherry

 

[keirys]

Don't do straw it doesn't absorb moisture. We do a deep litter method with pine shavings...Just make sure your coop is draft free & predator proof. I would also into getting some cold hardy chickens.

 

[Kernel Cluck]

First welcome to BYC! It would be easier if you could post a picture, but here are a few thoughts. Avoid "chicken wire" at all costs. It is flimsy and anything can bust through it. Use hardware cloth. Next, what you feed your chickens depends on how old they are when you get them. Little chicks through 16 weeks old get starter feed and then they switch to layer feed. What kind is up to you. I would suggest medicated if they are chicks. Whats the best name brand is a whole topic all on its own. If you live in Utah, I would strongly suggest you have the coop well sealed on the west and north side of the coop to protect from drafts and some ventilation near the roof to help with moisture. Keep the coop clean and you probably won't have to worry about mites. Take some time to look through the LEARNING CENTER . It is very helpful for new members. Good luck.

 

[drumstick diva]

Kernal Cluck gave you some good advice. When you get chicks inspect them well for signs off mites or lice, so you can nip it in the bud before it gets troublesome.

 

[Fierlin1182]

Hi and

You can feed bigger chickens kitchen scraps and snacks (but nothing too salty, or anything you wouldn't eat!)
Straw in the nest boxes is fine, our neighbours do it, as long as you change it often so it doesn't get too wet and dirty. Wood chips/shavings are also good.
Your coop sounds good!

 

[Mr MKK FARMS]

Welcome to BYC!!!

Glad to have you aboard!!

 

[redsoxs]

Greetings from Kansas and a belated

! Pleased you joined us!!