Im new

[Jackiemudd]

We just moved to Texas and there is a coop on our land we are getting it ready i thought maybe 6 moran hens. Never had chickens before so any advice is appreciated

 

[DobieLover]

Hello and welcome to BYC! Glad you joined.
Hit the coop pages to read up on how to fully secure and properly ventilate your coop. I highly recommend poop boards!

 

[Chullicken]

Starts out with a couple...then...a year later...

 

[sourland]

Welcome to BYC, and good luck in establishing your flock. Protection from predators is of utmost importance.

 

[Rothy_058]

Are they going to be pets or are you raising them for eggs / meat?

 

[BullChick]

A coop on the property is a perfect reason to get chickens!
Black Copper Marans (BCM) are a gorgeous breed! They were one of my first!
A secure coop, and a safe run are priorities. Raccoons can work simple locks, so use something a small child can’t figure out. Don’t let the birds free range for about two weeks. They need to be clear that the coop is home.
I think that’s the important stuff for starting out.

 

[Callender Girl]

Chickens will turn out to be smarter than you probably think they are. Positive reinforcement works; mine love grapes and will go anywhere (like into their coop) when lured with their favorite treat. That being said, the little lovelies will also learn how to exploit their cuteness, and you will be buying (or growing) grapes like crazy.

The idea of free range is great, but nearly all predators love a chicken dinner, so if you aren't there to keep an eye on them, they should be in hardware-cloth enclosed runs. Chicken wire keeps chickens in, it doesn't keep killers out.

Watching chickens is a great stress reliever and incredible entertainment. Enjoy! Welcome to BYC; you can learn so much from the folks here.

 

[ValerieJ]

Hi! Welcome to BYC!! You are starting off right by getting the coop set up before getting the chickens. As for the chickens, yes, get whatever you are attracted to, and if possible buy sexed pullets. IMHO it's better not to have cockerels during the first year of learning about chickens. There is enough of a learning curve with just the girls. That being said, chickens are such easy pets, and they reward you for your efforts in many ways, not just eggs. Good luck and keep us posted!!!

 

[Sequel]

Hi and welcome! So happy you joined us before you actually get the birds! Good luck putting it all together, it's just wonderful fun!

 

[FortCluck]