New guy in central IL

[karrboy84]

I am new to the chicken scene. My wife is much more informed than I am and I want to try and get educated on all things chicken, lol. I am looking to build a coop and found one that I liked. I was hoping someone could give some feedback and directions on how to build the nesting boxes and what kind of waste holder is used. I was looking at a plan like this: https://www.backyardchickens.com/a/our-first-chicken-tractor

How many chicken is a good number to start with?

Is anyone else from the central illinois area?

 

[roostersandhens]

I started with 6 chickens. I would say anywhere between 6 - 8 chickens to start.

 

[redsoxs]

Greetings from Kansas and

! Pleased you joined our flock! Good questions you've asked. You can learn a lot from the Learning Center link below.

https://www.backyardchickens.com/a/

In terms of how many...I guess it depends on how many you want/need to meet your needs. Are you raising for eggs or meat or both...or just for fun. Whatever the case, when it comes to coops, the recommended size is 4 sq. ft./bird and the run size is 10 sq. ft./bird. You at least two birds, however, as chickens are social and don't do well alone.

You can search for locals in the Illinois thread below. Good luck and have fun!

https://www.backyardchickens.com/f/26/where-am-i-where-are-you

 

[Kevin565]

 

[drumstick diva]

 

[karrboy84]

Thanks for the info. We are wanting to raise them for eggs, possibly in the future selling at a local farmers market.

Random question: how do you keep the chickens warm enough in the winters? Do you insulate the coop somehow? Use a warming lamp? It can get very cold around here.

 

[sourland]

Welcome to BYC. If your coop is dry, well ventilated, and draft free your chickens should be able to handle your winters without supplemental heat.

 

[Mr MKK FARMS]

Welcome to BYC!!

Glad you joined us!!