Just getting started

[janiedoe]

Welcome to BYC!

 

[Kenneth Zweerink]

Welcome to BackYard Chickens. And a Big Hello from Eastern Nebraska!

 

[triciayoung]

Hello! I've decided to get 2-3 chickens for my suburban backyard. We had chickens when I was a kid, but that was a "couple of years" ago, and we lived on a farm back then. Yes, I can have up to 4 chickens per city code, yes, my yard is well fenced, yes, I have a coop and an enclosed run. I do have questions about breeds, whether I should get 2 or 3, and what kind of feed is best. Looking forward to chicken chat!

Welcome. My answer is conditional based on a few factors. Yes, you should get 3-4 just in case something happens, so that your chickens have friends. No, not 3-4, maybe 2-3 if you bought a premanufactured. coop.

 

[Isabeau1]

Hi, I'd recommend getting 3-4 so there is less risk of ending up with a single bird. Are you starting with chicks or adult hens?

Adult hens. Someone said 3 is better than 2 because they like to socialize. The set up I have probably is too small for 4.

 

[Nomadicus]

Adult hens. Someone said 3 is better than 2 because they like to socialize. The set up I have probably is too small for 4.

Would 4 Bantam hens be doable?

 

[Isabeau1]

Welcome. My answer is conditional based on a few factors. Yes, you should get 3-4 just in case something happens, so that your chickens have friends. No, not 3-4, maybe 2-3 if you bought a premanufactured. coop.

I did get a manufactured coop that says it's for 4-6 birds, but based on what I've read, it's really not suitable for more than 3. Thanks!

 

[Isabeau1]

Adult hens. Someone said 3 is better than 2 because they like to socialize. The set up I have probably is too small for 4.

Maybe, but I'm not sure I really want that many. Three seems more doable somehow. Maybe I can add later?

 

[Isabeau1]

Hello and welcome to BYC!

The others have given you great advice on the amount of birds to keep. As far as feed, if you start with chicks, they will need Chick Starter until they are mature. Mature birds should have a Layer or All Flock feed. Your feed store should be able to help you too.

Make yourself at home here and welcome to our community!

Thank you! I've been reading up on some of these things, but nothing like advice from the experienced!

 

[007Sean]

Howdy, and Welcome to Backyard Chickens.

Happy to have you here with us. Enjoy your time here at BYC!

Thanks for joining our community!

 

[chrissynemetz]

Welcome to BYC! We're glad you joined us!