Hard lessons this newbie has learned

[B40chick]

Through dealing with a couple of sick chickens, I realize how important it is to really observe my flock. Not just watch and enjoy them, but also pay attention to detail.
Also, when I see something is not right, I don't need to ignore it, but be pro-active dealing with it. Raising chickens is a learning experience. There is so much joy, but also heartache when you lose one.
Is keeping chickens effortless and easy? No. Is it worth the effort? Yes.

 

[ChickenCanoe]

Well said! Just observing their collective behavior for 10 or 15 minutes when they come out in the morning is helpful to identify any aberrant behavior that could indicate a coming problem.
It is also important to handle them from time to time. (my birds are wild so I need to do that after dusk). One should check the body condition to see if they are too thin and also check for lice or mites. Then take action if any are found.