Hello from Mount Juliet, TN!

[Xprice]

Hi, my name is Chris. I am just starting my research into raising chickens in my yard and it looks like I've found the spot where the experts hang out! My wife and I and our 3 kids are caregivers to an adult young lady named, Peggy. Peggy copes with Traumatic Brain Injury and Cerebral Palsy and lives with us in our home. We have a 1 acre lot just outside of the city and we are interested in fresh eggs to feed our family and possibly share with our friends. I look forward to soaking up any wisdom your members are willing to share.

My first big questions are: What is needed in a coop here in Middle TN? What breed do you suggest for a newbie family to raise considering we want to involve Peggy and the kids in the process?

 

[New Chicken Lad]

http://www.mypetchicken.com/chicken-breeds/which-breed-is-right-for-me.aspx

http://animalscience.ag.utk.edu/Poultry/Extension-Poultry.html

 

[redsoxs]

Greetings from Kansas, Xprice, and

! Pleased you joined us! I'm not sure what you mean when you ask what is needed in a coop? Are you referring to size or making it predator proof or...? In terms of breeds - many are great layers and very friendly - I'd avoid the noisy, nervous, flighty types (leghorns and other some Mediterranean breeds). Good luck to you!

 

[drumstick diva]

go to the "Where am I, where are you," to find your state thread - and post there. You may find people living near you tht

can offer the best advice on what is needed for a coop/run in regards to weather condition and area predators. They may also know where you can get good chickens locally.

Bantam cochins and silkies are docile and I think good for young children and I think Peggy would like them too - generally they are people friendly and small enough to not be a burden . Silkies however are not considered reliable layers.