Hi, my wife and I (along with our 3 kids - 2 boys 18y/o, 2 y/o, and our 14y/o girl) are in Northwest Las Vegas. New to the idea of chickens in our back (side) yard. Wife has been wanting chickens for a while, and I've been playing the "no" card for some time. Only playing mean so I can research the whole idea for a bit and do it legally and as a surprise to her. Just purchased a coop and will have to put it together when it gets here then weatherproof it for the little rain and massive amounts of sun it will get. After I will take some time to set it up with bedding, feeder, dusting area, foraging area and auto waterer for the chickens before we get them. I'd like to be as ready as I can so there are fewer surprises. We live in the county and not the city so at least that part is easier, I dont need written consent from my neighbors! Yay! Mainly these chickens are going to be for eggs, a hobby (they will be spoiled no doubt!), and something for my 2y/o to be able to grow up with and provide some very good life lessons he can look back on. Heck, I guess it will provide all of us with some! My list of favorite breeds after some research is Australorp, Barred Plymouth Rock, Rhode Island Red, White Leghorn, Easter Egger, and a Blue Ameraucana. I figure we will have between 4 and 6 birds depending on actual size of the coop and run after putting it together and what I can add to it so the birds are comfortable and have ample room. The only problem I am coming up while researching is finding a place that has these birds in stock for purchase. I dont mind traveling for them though, so I will figure that out after everything is ready. Should make for a cool Christmas present! Anyway, that is us and our (my) plans. If anyone in the Vegas area is on here and has any tips, pointers, and/or good advice for this whole new thing I am about to get knee deep in....I'm all ears. Oh, and I dont like the username I came up with! Any way to change it?
and Welcome to BYC! Check out the Where Am I Where Are You forum for people in your state, they may be able to give you advice on a good place to get chicks in your area, and help with chicken keeping in your state. 
