Hi everyone! I am brand new...

[Debbie Lynn]

I have always wanted chickens. I just moved into a house that has a coop that needs fixed up in the spring. Someone just gave me a rooster and a hen and I need to learn very quickly how to take care of them. My husband patched the coop for now. Looking forward to my new adventure!

 

[TheTwoRoos]

Welcome to BYC!What kinda advice do you need?

 

[Debbie Lynn]

It is getting cold here now and the coop has a lot of cracks. Should I line the walls with something to keep out the cold air? We have a heat lamp that we turn on at night.

 

[Pork Pie]

Hi and welcome to byc. Coops need ventilation but not draughts, so yes, I'd suggest you do a bit more patching. 1 roo and only 1 hen is not best ratio. Around 8-10 hens per roo is recommended to prevent the hen being over-mated and harmed.

Good luck

Ct

 

[TheTwoRoos]

To avoid her being overmated you could by her a hen saddle

 

[N F C]

If you haven't done so already, check out the Learning Center, it has great articles that will answer a lot of questions for you:
https://www.backyardchickens.com/atype/1/Learning_Center

x2 on CTKen's recommendation to patch up the draughts.

Thanks for joining us!

 

[BantamFan4Life]

Welcome to BYC! I'm glad you joined us!

 

[drumstick diva]

Welcome to BYC. Your hen would do a lot better with another hen for company. instead of the rooster that will be overbreeding her .

 

[Debbie Lynn]

Thank you. I've been wondering about that. My husband surprised me with them and I didn't have my research done yet.