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Hi, all!
I love reading all the posts and thank you all for the wonderful information you give so freely.

I became a chicken owner by default. a neighbor had them and I don't know the details but they ended up on their own. They had been coming over here for a couple of months eating the dropped bird feed and cat food I had out for a feral cat and digging in the pine needles. they always left at night and came back in the morning. One cold, rainy evening I looked out and saw three of them just standing under the clothesline and not moving. I told my son that I had to do something. He has a new truck so I couldn't put them in the garage and the house was a no, no. Six cats.
I picked them up and put them under a large picnic table and there they stayed. We put a tarp over it and got them some straw and food and that's where they wintered over. We put a light in there for heat on very cold days and nights. I live in northern Michigan.
they were two RIR'S and a rooster. The rooster has since made the pot since when spring came he was very loud, early and wouldn't shut up. The hens are just starting laying but he was an old guy. Ended up as cat food . He was a good protector and I do miss him.
Built a cage and coop but one hen did not want to stay in. Unfortunately when the fox showed up she flew and that was her downfall. they have a chain link fenced 6x20 foot run and a 4' square coop.
Bought a BA and a BR to go with them and they are sweet things.
Fought lice and lost feathers with them but even with bare skin I think it is under control thanks to your help. Have managed to get mineral oil on the bare spots and that has helped.
I lock them in at night because of coons, possum nearby and coyotes in the distance.

Thanks, again!

Darlene in Michigan