New in WA state

[gardner1]

Hi! New to all of this...We would like to start raising a few hens-don't know the first thing about it though. Do you have to have a rooster? I thought that was just for breeding....Is there a Rent-A-Rooster out there (?) so I don't have to have one except on occasion? My main concern is the winter...We got a boat load of snow...I want to find out about keeping the chickens warm enough...HELP!!!

 

[marytoast]

from NC.

 

[gpamela3499]

From California

 

[froggie71]

and

from NJ! You only need a rooster if you plan on breeding. Your girls will lay eggs regardless. If you check the sections for coops you'll find many designs that will keep your girls warm in the winter with insulation, some use heating lamps, etc. It good that you are doing research first. There are several breeds of chickens that do great in the winter. Also, there are threads on here where you may find people that live near you that you can get more advice from. Good luck!

 

[patyrdz]

from North Carolina!

 

[TheReidHomestead]

Welcome!

No, you don't need a rooster unless you plan on breeding them. I don't know of an existing Rent a Rooster program but you just might find someone willing here as it's a great group of people.

As far as keeping them warm, a simple shelter that you can close up at night should be sufficient. Most people around here do not insulate their coops as usually we have mild winters, last winter was certainly not the normal!

Do you plan on getting chicks, incubating eggs or finding some older birds?

 

[eaganchickens]

from MN!

 

[NGT ANGL]

from Virginia! Look in the Coop section for some great ideas on housing with regard to keeping them warm in the winter.

 

[b.hromada]

and

S. Florida! Glad you joined us!

 

[Goat_Walker]