Hello

[Annieck]

I am new to BYC, live in Colorado and do not yet have a flock. I am learning, thinking and planning my backyard chicken space. I have a sister who has had chickens for years and am aware of the commitment and have a lot to learn before I jump in. I am planning for a 3 chicken condo with free range potential. Would love to have a Silkie for my granddaughter's lifetime dream. What other breeds should I consider?

 

[Pork Pie]

Hi and welcome to BYC - thanks for joining us. There are so many breeds, its difficult to make suggestions. It depends on whether you want eye-candy, great layers, where you are located (some breeds are better suited to colder climates than others) etc.

If you are free-ranging, then silkies would not be my first choice as their ability to see predators is somewhat limited. Flighty breeds such as leghorns would be good for free ranging, but are exactly lap-sitters.

This chart may help - http://www.sagehenfarmlodi.com/chooks/chooks.html

Here’s a link to the Articles section - https://www.backyardchickens.com/articles/ There you’ll find lots of information on almost every aspect of keeping chickens - from coop building ideas, to incubating eggs.

There’s a link on the page above to the Learning Centre - it’s a great resource. If you have a specific topic in mind, just type it in the search box - there's a wealth of information on past and present threads.

Each week, various topics are discussed, which can also be a great resource - https://www.backyardchickens.com/a/topic-of-the-week-thread-archive

You may wish to consider joining your state thread as it will put you in touch with other BYC members in your area - http://www.backyardchickens.com/t/270925/find-your-states-thread#post_3239224

All the best

Pork Pie

 

[Kiki]

Welcome to Backyardchickens.com aka BYC!
We are so glad you joined our flock.
Jump right in and make yourself at home.
This video will help you learn how to navigate this site:

 

[drumstick diva]

If you are only planning on 3 chickens, you don't have a cushion for predator loss. You could be wiped out in one day. Free ranging means you have to accept losses will happen.

 

[Robin37]

Good luck Annieck and

 

[rjohns39]

Hi and welcome to BYC If you're thinking 3, build for a dozen... Chicken Math gets us all.