Going for it!!

[ChickenNewbie5]

We moved about 9 months ago from the biggest city in my state to a rural town of about 400 in central WI. We are finally loving it here. We have about 3 acres of just yard and a nice big barn that is almost empty. We just put a polled hereford bull who is 2 weeks old in the calving pen

NOW, for the thing that really has me nervous. I have 25 baby chicks on the way in May. We are so excited but have never had chickens before. Also, looks like we will be proud parents of 2 baby duckling this coming week.

Have any advice for a newbie and chickens? I have the brooding area almost complete withsupplies, just have to set it up.

Chandi

 

[Ms.FuzzyButts]

Best advice I can give is be prepared to be smitten with the baby chickies!!!! They are easy to care for. So if someone has anything else to add.....

 

[tazcat70]

They are addictive! They ar so much fun to watch!

 

[Backyard Hencam]

It sounds like you have lots of space and will fill it up in no time. My advice: make sure that you are prepared for the chicks. They are vulnerable in the beginning but "hearty" as adults. Make sure that they are safe from predators. It breaks my heart when folks loose their chickens to a fox, raccoon, or hawk!. Have fun!

 

[ChickenNewbie5]

We are pretty set for the babies, I think. I have feeders, water, brooder, lamp, shavings, feed etc.
The area that they will be in is a coop that is attached to our barn. ITS HUGE. I'll try to post pictures later or tomorrow. We have a few boards to replace etc but by the time they can go out it'll be all fixed up!

 

[ChickenMama18]

First of all...I'm somewhat jealous of all your space...but so glad for you! You will love having chickens. Since you're in a rural area the only thing I'd add is to make sure their area is predator proof...strong wire (I hear) is helpful over "regular" chicken wire. I don't know personally...I'm still a country girl stuck in the city! LOL!