I love the 5 to 8 range. It feels right to me.I think if they'd had the hens imposed on them by a much-loved aunty like I did, they'd take the hens on.
To be fair to you Shad, I'd have said no if I could because I was crop feeding Lorna at the time and felt my hands were very full. So I think we're both right.
It's been a good lesson for me and now I know I can handle more chickening than I thought I could.
Not that I want to! I'm happy for the flock/tribes to stay at this size for the time being. I used to think 10-12 hens would be ideal. Now it's more like 5-8 is just right.
I've promised the neighbours I'll take their last chook when their other one dies, so they can get their garden established for a few years before re-starting a flock. But after that I'm closing the flock to new hens and adding only fertile eggs and only when necessary.
I say that now but as I learn more, I'm bound to change my mind.