New to backyard chickens

[jenmoccart]

I have never had chickens. And I would like to start a small backyard flock. Before I start I want to be prepared I want to make sure I can keep some happy hens before I even begin. My concerns are: I live in michigan so between summer and winter we have extreme weather changes, so I need chickens that can adapt to this environment. Secondly I live in the city limits so my flock has to be five or less. I was thinking of having three, is this feasible?

 

[TwoCrows]

Welcome to BYC!

Lots of hardy breeds out there that can tolerate your temp extremes. First you might start out in our learning center here on BYC. Lots of good reads on all the aspects of keeping chickens.....

https://www.backyardchickens.com/atype/1/Learning_Center

While you are there, here is our breeds page...you can see what others are saying about the hardiness and other qualities of the different breeds...

https://www.backyardchickens.com/products/category/chicken-breeds

Here is an excellent link to an external page on breeds. This will list the hardiness of each breed and other quick facts about them...

http://www.sagehenfarmlodi.com/chooks/chooks.html

And finally, you will want to chat with others in your state to see how they deal with the temp extremes...

https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/697050/michigan-thread-all-are-welcome

Good luck with your new adventures!

 

[Telecaster68]

I would recommend Orpingtons as a cold hardy breed. They are docile and friendly to people and come in several colors. Orpingtons also will lay eggs through winter while other slim chickens stop and wait for spring. Good luck with your chicken adventure I know my first year has been so fun, entertaining and always a learning experience.

 

[1muttsfan]

Hi and welcome to BYC from northern Michigan

Stop by the Michigan thread and say Hi, look in the Where am I - Where are you section of the Forum. There are quite a few of us up here in the Great White North that keep chickens all year around. Also, Chickenstock is coming in June, a great chance to get together with others here in Michigan.

 

[Kelsie2290]

Hello and Welcome To BYC!

 

[gander007]