New from Conestoga asks: have hens, now what?

[vstoltzfus]

I am Melissa, living in Conestoga, Lancaster County, PA. I have been visiting this website for months, looking at coop plans and flock management. My husband built me a coop, and now have 11 RIR pullets laying 9-10 eggs a day. I've had the hens locked in the coop since I got them Aug 1, but want them to free range on our 3 acres. When can I let them out? Another question: once I let them out, I assume they'll eat less feed, and more bugs/plants? I didn't realize how much food they would go through! I am so happy to have my hens! Thanks for helping this happy hen owner.

 

[Wynette]

Yes, they'll eat less feed when they are freeranged, but you still need it on their run/coop free choice. You can let them out any time now! It's a good idea to begin free ranging them near dusk; they will want to go back to the coop to roost, so they won't be out long the first few times. Also, some folks leave them in until late afternoon, since they typically lay their eggs before then. This way, you can collect eggs from the coop rather than trying to find them around the area they are freeranging. Best of luck!

 

[wombat]

I'd suggest getting them used to coming to you for treats. We feed a variety, but bulk in-shell peanuts from the feed mill are favorites.

It's easy to get them back to their run in the evening ... I just take a handful of peanuts and call "peanut! peanut!" or make the "bok bok bok" feeding call and they all come running.

Our five- and seven-year old kids can easily "coop up" the birds for the night now ... the dog trots along to keep stragglers moving.

 

[vstoltzfus]

Thanks for your help! I am a little nervous about letting them out, but I'm sure everything will work out. Thanks for the info on time of day to let them out. I didn't know that (there's a lot I don't know).

 

[easttxchick]

Hi Melissa,

I was really nervous when I let my little flock out to free range the first few days, but believe me, they are like homing pigeons and will head into the coop a few minutes before dark.

You'll be really glad you joined this forum-all kinds of great info and nice, chicken savvy folks here.

 

[English Chick]

 

[One Acre Wonder Farm]

from Vermont!