Just getting started in Lion's Head, Ontario

[pilgie]

Hi:

For some ridiculous reason, this native Torontonian has become obsessed with having chickens since moving to the Bruce Peninsula. My "designer cutsey coop" has been planned including a roomy enclosed outdoor run and is to be built early in September. I'm soooo excited. My plan is to begin with 4-6 hens. I'm still contemplating the pros and cons of a rooster. ( I've spent some time in Haiti where they had no respect for the clock whatsoever

If anyone has a good "must have", "must do" list for a complete novice I would very much appreciate it.

 

[Chickendummy]

Hello Pilgie,

Welcome to BYC from California! I just started keeping chickens this year! I wanted to start with 4-6, but ended up with 3. Folks on BYC advised me well that my coop/run was too small, unless I wanted to keep Bantams. I had 3 Std NH reds, and just introduce a 4th. It's really mean and pecks the heads of my girls. So start with the number you want. Before keeping a rooster learn what the local ordinances are in regard to that. In my town we cannot keep roosters, although you can hear them all over the place.

Most important from my experience, handle your birds when you get them. I bought mine from the local feed store and I think they came with mites. I have since defeated the mites and learned the importance of inspecting the birds, closely.

Best of luck, and post pics when you can. Check out my BYC page to see mine.

CD.

 

[Gallo del Cielo]

Hi Pilgie!

Be sure to check out the coop section during your planning.

 

[pilgie]

Hi: Thanks so much for the welcome. One of the men who is building my coop was over tonight and the plans are well underway. There will be lots of space and a good sized enclosed run. He advised against a rooster to start. Noise is not the problem as I live on 25 acres of bush. I'll be sure to post pictures of the build and the girls when I get them.
Blessings to you.[

 

[bella1210]

from ct

 

[Bantimna]

Welcome to our friendly, informative and helpful Forum!

 

[chick4chicks]

and

I love my chickens and personally I love my roosters too, they are all great pets and so entertaining. Good luck.