In Need Of Any Chicken Advice You Have

[Claire13]

Hi! I am looking to start small flock of chickens in my backyard.

I live in Indiana so our climate varies from season to season. I am currently in the process of reading my "Raising Chickens for Dummies Book", but I am also looking for advice from real life chicken owners. I was looking to purchase 3 light brahma chickens, 2 golden laced wyandottes, and 1 white crested black polish. All hens. I am going to keep these birds as pets. Has anybody ever had any issues with these species and will they be okay with the temperature of my area, even in winter? Also does anybody have tips on how large to build the chicken coop, because I have heard that the brahmas can get pretty big. The hens will have to be fenced in because I also have dogs but plan to take every precaution to keep them separated. How big should their outdoor space be? Finally, where do you suggest I purchase the chicks from and when is the best time to do so? I would like to purchase them ASAP because I plan to show them in 4-H. Thanks so much!

 

[drumstick diva]

Welcome to Backyard chickens. Have you visited the "Learning Center," it's a great place to start your chicken education. I really don't know if those breeds will tolerate your weather. Are you in Northern or southern Indiana? Affected by lake effect snow, etc.?

Rule of thumb generally allow 4-5 sq.feet per bird inside the coop not counting nest boxes and roosts. Birds should have 10 sq.feet each in the outdoor run. A covered run is great to help shield from sun, rain, snow and will keep hawks and climbing predators OUT.

You would probably get better answers regarding breed adaptability from the Indiana state thread. Brahma's are large, heavy birds and do better with a low roost - otherwise a heavy landing from greater height can injure their legs.

 

[Yorkshire Coop]

Hi

Glad you could join the flock! Drumstick has left you some great advice and the learning centre is a great place to start ~ https://www.backyardchickens.com/atype/1/Learning_Center

I would like to add about the polish you may get. Polish don't do well in mixed flocks especially with larger breeds. Due to thier fancy and large crests they can get a lot of unwanted attention from the other birds. They are often at the bottom of the pecking order and are easily picked on due to the lack of vision that they have. I'm not trying to put you off keeping a polish but I just wanted you to be aware if you do get one and she does not get on in your mixed flock. I have all polish barring one and they are a beautiful breed to keep but do require a bit more keeping. Crests need to be checked regular for mites, lice. And eyes too need to be checked regular as the crest can often cover the eye causing problems.

Wishing you the very best luck with your new chicken adventures and enjoy BYC

 

[N F C]

Welcome to BYC!

You've received some excellent advice above so I'll just say hi

Nice to have you join us!

 

[BantamFan4Life]

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