I'm new to chickens, how many should i get?

[CharlotteRenee]

Hi my name is Charlotte and I have never had chicks before, how many should I get???

I think I have decided on the Buff Orpington breed.

 

[The ChickenKing]

That all depends, what are you looking for in your chickens? How much space do you have available? And how much are you willing to spend on them?

 

[CharlotteRenee]

Well we have a lot of space for them and we are surrounded by woods, but we are just figuring out how much they would cost. And we are mostly looking for some fun,gentle chickens.

 

[CharlotteRenee]

And also do they require lots of attention, like if we wanted to go on a trip or something would they need me to stay home?

 

[JJSS89]

No, they do not need you there for attention. Predation factors will increase when you're gone but again that goes back to money and how much you're willing to spend.

 

[CharlotteRenee]

Thanks!

 

[Naser]

Buff Orpingtons eat more than other hens and their eggs aren't the biggest
They get broody
And they are not as friendly as you hear
I have 19 hens and a rooster. the 2 BO are the ones who do most of the pecking
I avoid feisty breeds. may be that is why I find them more aggressive.

 

[Naser]

how many should I get???

It depends how many eggs do you want a day and how much space you have
And if you get morehens disease you will have many more than you think you will have

 

[song of joy]

Welcome to BYC! The number depends on what you want them for. Do you want eggs? How many per week?

Dominique and barred plymouth rock are docile, good foragers, good egg layers, and have a pattern that is less visible to hawks and other predators.

For just starting out, I'd recommend getting 6 pullets (female chicks). That's a good number to learn with.

 

[CharlotteRenee]

Ok! Thanks a lot!