Just starting out

[the4deans]

I am located in northern California and we are just starting our chicken coop and looking for tips on breeds for my area and any tips. Our coop will be ready in less than a month and looking to start selecting chicks.

Thanks for all the help in advance.

 

[ValerieJ]

Hi! Welcome to BYC! How many chickens do you want to have? Did you build a large coop or a small one? For me, the coop size dictates what quantity and breeds will work. That being said, I love Orpingtons. I have Buff, Lavender, and Australorps and love them all.

 

[the4deans]

Hi! Welcome to BYC! How many chickens do you want to have? Did you build a large coop or a small one? For me, the coop size dictates what quantity and breeds will work. That being said, I love Orpingtons. I have Buff, Lavender, and Australorps and love them all.

Our coop is 8by30 total the indoor space is 8x8

 

[chrissynemetz]

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

 

[BlueBaby]

Hello, and welcome! Glad that you joined! Good luck with whatever breed or breed's that you decide on getting for your flock!

 

[Pork Pie]

Hi and welcome to BYC.

Here are some helpful links:

• Great go-to resource - Articles
• Insightful feedback on how members manage their flocks - Topic of the Week back-catalogue

Best wishes

Pork Pie

 

[DiYMama540]

Welcome to BYC! Lots of great egg laying breeds to choose from, I LOVE my California whites! They've laid fairly consistently through the winter also.
Thanks for joining!

 

[drumstick diva]

Welcome to Backyard Chickens, so glad you joined the flock

 

[DobieLover]

Hello and welcome to BYC! Glad you joined.
If your attached run is completely predator proof (enclosed in 1/2" hardware cloth with predator apron and a solid roof) you can leave the just leave the pop door open. In that type of set up, you could comfortable house 21 birds. I wouldn't get that many to start as you will likely want to learn which breeds you prefer and if you get a rooster you may want to let a broody hen set some eggs.
I like an L-shaped roost over an L-shaped poop board with the board at counter height (34") and a ramp to the board. That frees up a lot of floor space. If the run is totally secure, you can feed and water in the run.
Good luck with your new adventure.

 

[TwoCrows]

Hello there and welcome to BYC!

You might enjoy chatting with your neighbors here in your state thread of California.

As for breeds, I am a big fan of Buff Orpingtons and Black Australorps. Both quite health and weather hardy, great layers, friendly birds.

Make yourself at home here and welcome to our community!