Just starting out

[Ides0mar]

Hello to all. Just starting this adventure that is chickens and realizing how much I don’t know.
For now we have 8 that are approaching their second week in a brooder box under heat lamp with a dimmer switch. They are eating a grower feed and getting probiotics in their water. Bedding is changed every other day. Past that I have zero idea what I’m doing.
Building the run and coop in the next week. Run will be 12x8x7 fully enclosed with wire and coop will be 4x8x6.5.
They will be allowed to roam the property during the day time. But due to coyotes, they will be in their run and coop at night. Climate is pretty mild (Southern California)
I’m scanning forums and learning but what would you all suggest to a complete newbie.
Thanks for whatever advice you have.

 

[Teila]

G'Day from down under Ides0mar Welcome and Congratulations!

I hope you enjoy being a BYC member. There are lots of friendly and very helpful folks here so not only is it overflowing with useful information it is also a great place to make friends and have some fun.

BYC has Topic of the Week discussions which I have found to be a great resource, informative and sometimes entertaining; so definitely worth checking out. These two may be of particular interest:
Topic of the Week - Getting Started, Keeping Chickens
Topic of the Week - Keeping the Flock Safe from Predators

Adorable little ones! If you would like to share Pictures and Stories of them, you have come to the right place. BYC’ers never tire of these and do not back away slowly or commence eye rolling when the photo album or home videos come out

Including your general location on your profile will assist others. Location, climate, season etc can be important factors when members are responding to any questions you may have and vice versa.

You might want to also Find Your State Thread and pop in and say hello.

You may also be interested in these links:

• Learning Centre
• Articles
• Raising Baby Chicks Forum
• Coop & Run Forum
• Predators & Pests Forum
• How Much Room do Chickens Need?

 

[drumstick diva]

Welcome to Backyard chickens - chicks grow fast

 

[007Sean]

Howdy Happy to have you join the family. Enjoy your time here at BYC!

 

[Pork Pie]

Hello and welcome to BYC. I'd advise caution with your heat lamp in a small brooder. A warm spot and the rest of the brooder being at ambient temps is what you should be aiming for.

Teila has done an outstanding job with links that I'm sure will be very helpful


All the best

Pork Pie

 

[Joeschooks]

Hello and You’ve come to the right place! We’re all chicken mad here and there’s loads of friendly, knowledgeable members who will be pleased to help when needed or simply just chat about all things chicken.

 

[Jetblack2004]

We're glad you joined us