New B - Lot's of Questions

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JPapp

JPapp

Hatching
11 Years
Jan 5, 2009
9
0
7
SF, Bay Area
Alright.. I have been lurking, reading & reading. I have many questions still though!

I live in the SF Bay Area. I have two kids (5 & 3) with another on the way. We want to get some chickens for the eggs and also for the kids to help take care of, play with, etc. We are looking at 2-3 chickens max. I really like the ark design and am leaning towards buliding this as I don't want to dedicate too much space to a coop. Our thought is to let the chickens "Free Range" in the yard, a couple of hours a day.

So my questions.

Should we hatch the chickens? Buy little ones? We want them to be comfortable with the kids (as much as possible).

Any recomendations on type of chickens (no roosters by the way). Good with kids, mellow if there is such a thing.

We are looking to start everything in the spring (build the coop etc). Is there a best time to get the eggs / chicks?

I am sure I will have more questions, but that's it for now.

Thanks for your reply's in advance.

Jason
 
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Get chicks...no cost of incubation equipment. Read up on the breeds...lots here or feathersite is good...lots of places will have chicks already sexed for you
 
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I agree get sexed chicks and get at least 3 in case one dies you won't be stuck with a single lonely chick. The best time to get chicks is ASAP if you live in a warmer climate.
 
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and
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. Reading is GREAT when trying to make the decision on which breed...how many etc. As for the breeds...I am sure everyone has thier own idea of the "perfect hen" I happen to love my Buff Orpingtons, and my barred rocks. They are very calm, and personable. I would get them as chicks. Incubateing can be very dissapointing, and heck, you might just hatch ALL roosters...get attached to them, then have to let them go. You can order sexed chicks from My Pet Chicken.com. They might be a little pricey...but if you are limited to how many, and definately NO ROOS...might be an option to look into. Maybe someone near you will have a few pullets for sale. Either way...welcome..and enjoy your new hobby.
 
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I do second the suggestion on doing some reading about the different breeds. With that said, I think you might look into the Easter Eggers or Cochin breeds. Both are docile breeds. EE roosters however are not but you said you only wanted hens. If you are keeping them in a small residential yard, I would edge towards Cochin since they are non flighty. When your children are a little older, you could do 4-H shows also for some additional nice lessons.

Welcome to BYC. This is a great place.
 

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