Hi, I live in the woods on a couple acres in Northern Virginia, and we have been planning on getting chickens for a few years. They will be arriving on Thursday this week. We are new to chickens, but we have been living on or near farms since we were kids. This will be the first time as chicken owners. My son recently adopted a chicken he found wandering the school parking lot. He brought her home, and she decided to stay. We named her Henrietta Houdini. She has a knack for slipping in and out of fences, boxes, and other obstacles. Henrietta looks like a Rhode Island Red. We also have 6 chicks on the way: 1 black cochin male 1 black cochin female 2 ameraucana females 1 silver egyptian fayoumi female 2 silver kraienkoppe females In our research in preparing for chickens, we found BYC through almost every internet search for information. So far, this forum has been a HUGE help in getting us prepared. I just finished framing the hen house and will be finished with it in time for the chicks to move in after they are a little older. Henrietta, however, is ready for it NOW. Our hobbies are cooking, playing, guitar, and woodworking. We also have a tuxedo cat and a goldfish pond out back. We are birdwatchers and take part in Feederwatch every year. So far Henrietta, loves visiting the feeders and running off the squirrels. She also runs off the cat. Anyways, thank you, everyone - for all the information you have already posted to these forums. It is invaluable. I took some pictures from the past few days and attaching them here. Sgt Chikkin
Alright great to have you onboard with us Look's like you are getting ready with a nice coop well built Even a nice brooder, you are set to go The foam look's better then the over crowding here gander007
Thanks, Logan! I'm pretty darned happy today too! Beautiful birds you have there, Gander. What breed are those? Oh, and do you have any advice as to what I should put in the bottom of my brooder so the chicks don't slip on the plastic or get their legs stuck in the drain holes? Sgt Chikkin
When I had my chicks I used wood shavings, but looking back I would use straw. It's cheaper and I think it's a little better, but that's just me.
