How many chickens is to much chickens

[estrju2]

So, how many chickens would you be able to have in a 1/2 acre back yard? I am trying to not over well my self.

 

[Silkie owner]

I’d say maybe 10 to start.

 

[333113]

A lot depends on why you have the chickens. If you are raising them for meat, you could build a pen or shed big enough for them, and easily keep them on half an acre. IF your home is zoned for that.

 

[aart]

So, how many chickens would you be able to have in a 1/2 acre back yard? I am trying to not over well my self.

The backyard doesn't matter as much as the size of coop where they will safely sleep at night.

Welcome to BYC! @estrju2
Where in this world are you located?
Climate, and time of year, is almost always a factor.
Please add your general geographical location to your profile.
It's easy to do, and then it's always there!

 

[estrju2]

So I have a chicken run/coop that 12/16 is this enough room for 70 birds to sleep at night?

 

[estrju2]

I’d say maybe 10 to start.

I started with 30 and I have 40 more coming, I am worried that I might have over done it.

 

[BigBlueHen53]

So I have a chicken run/coop that 12/16 is this enough room for 70 birds to sleep at night?

Probably not. The problem with crowding is that the chickens will most likely fight for space, resulting in pecking, injuries and possibly even cannibalism. A general rule of thumb for space is about 4 square feet of unrestricted floor space per bird. This means space that is not taken up by nests, feeders or waterers.

 

[Silkie owner]

I started with 30 and I have 40 more coming, I am worried that I might have over done it.

It should be ok I’d start with 10 so they don’t fight and you could always add more. You should be ok just watch out for aggressive behavior

 

[BigBlueHen53]

If you go to the Articles section here on BYC, you can do a search on How much space do chickens need? There is a very good article there on the subject by @Ridgerunner that you may find helpful. Good luck!

 

[janiedoe]

We have between 25 to 45 maximum during the year. My coops are a small raised coop that holds from 9 to 12 medium size birds, 2 large walk in coops that hold up to 16 & 24 max if you go by roosting space. Our runs are covered and secure and allow for no less than 15 sq ft per chicken. We also have an acre chicken yard which we are expanding.
I feel like the more space they have the healthier and less prone to behavioral issues they are.
The less stressed my animals are, the less stress I have.