We just moved onto an old and small derelict farm in Michigan. The previous homeowners had a few sheep and a runaway population of barn cats (that we just spent nearly $400 neutering/spaying). They took the sheep with them, though I'd like to have a few. We're starting a flock of chickens anyway. I've never raised chickens before but used to raise cockatiels and have a passion for birds. I am converting a section of a lean-to, attached to the barn, into a coop. The chicks are still inside however until I get it secured. We have 12, 3 week old chicks - 3 Buff Orpingtons, 3 Barred Rocks, 3 Silver-Laced Wyandottes, and 3 Easter Eggers. I can't wait to get them outside at this point because of their mess and their noise level. They're in a room attached to our bedroom and every morning at about 4am they decide their water is too dirty and start cheeping loudly until I clean it. I just looked into watering nipples for the coop.
They're a handful but very enjoyable, especially the Buffs and Easter Eggers who are getting friendly enough to approach me. The rest still cower in the corner when I'm tending the brooder.
from Ohio. So glad you joined. Good luck with your chicks. 
