Hey Guys, Found a bunch of information here when I first started back in June. Started with 4 hens, and a 4x8 coop/run. Tried to let them free range. Neighbors dog came over (we live on 13 acres, the two of us, same landlord) and killed them. Found them laying next to her front door step. Dog tried to attack my pup when we found them, like he was protecting his prize or something. Heartbreaking. Anyway, I took the high road and invested some $$$ into my new hobby. After that, I invested some $$$ on a bigger coop/run, 9 1/2 x 12ft, and enclosed it all with hardware cloth, 1/2 inch. Found some old tin on some property we own and recycled it. All the wood I used was recycled from a deck we tore down as well. Got the 2 older hens and roos in July, just got the other 3 hens last week. They have finally integrated after being sectioned off for 7 days. Feeding them a special protein blend recommended by the breeder. I love them. My dog loves them. Oh yeah, my gf is totally in on this deal deal. I let her pick out one hen to call her own, she is the red flaked white one in the video with my dog. They are bonding. This is after 7 days of finding out their pecking order. Her name is Princess. She wants to help raise 6 Polish hens @ her place soon. Can't wait. We plan on breeding them next Spring maybe? Still doing research. Big black roo - Bob Bib white roo - Whitey medium white hen - Ms Piggy medium black hen - Aunt J red/white - Princess small white - not named yet small black/red - not named yet LOVE THEM!! Love this site. You guys rock. Silkies rock. Im not sure how to post videos on this forum so if someone can help, that would be awesome! Here are some links. Vid is way shaky, those who get motion sickness beware, but still cool. Before I had the new hens. Thanks again! They haven't started laying yet but will in the next few weeks. Have some left over lumber that I'll build a nesting box with this week.
Howdy from Kansas, ParkCity, and ! Great to have you with us! I'll check out your videos. Good luck to you!
Your silkies are gorgeous! I only have one Silkie, but he's the favorite in the coop. I'm wishing my dog was as friendly as yours with the chicks. Still have hopes of friendship, but not taking any risks.