New to BYC in all ways, from CA, Bay Area

[parisd]

Hi all,

My wife and I are new here. We're preparing to get three or so Silkie Bantam pullets. Right now we're in preparation mode. I'm doing tons of research before hand (thanks to this awesome community!)

Right now we have a coop. I'm planning on getting food/water containers and feed while I find a source for some 4 or so month hens. Going to lay pea gravel for the run, and alfalfa for the nests. Looking forward to sharing the progress of our lil' flock!

Best,
Paris

 

[sumi]

Welcome to BYC

Glad you joined us! Check out the Learning Center for articles on getting started, choosing breeds, etc. You'll find everything you need to know to get you started there.

We have a contest running for our new members, if you're interested. Rules and how to enter here:

https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/885886/welcome-to-byc-sign-up-and-win/0_30

Enjoy the site!

 

[TwoCrows]

Hello there and welcome to BYC!

You might reconsider on the pea gravel. The stones can be sharp and they are going to want to dig thru it. This can cause punctures in the pads of the feet. And you will have a hard time cleaning it. You might try sand in the run. I use sand in the coop and run. It is a wonderful medium to use....easy to clean, no poop smells, no flies, stays dry when wet, you can hose it down in the summer time and it will keep the birds incredibly cool. Here is a nice link on using sand...

https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/444759/got-sand-you-should

Sumi has left you with a link to our learning center. Lots of good articles on all the aspects of keeping your new flock.

Enjoy this new adventure you are on and welcome to our flock!

 

[parisd]

Thanks for the welcome and link!

 

[Kelsie2290]

Hello and Welcome To BYC!

 

[drumstick diva]

Silkies are notoriously difficult to sex before 4-5 mos. of age, sometimes not till they lay or crow.

If you buy younger birds, you may very well end up with "oh no," another rooster.

 

[parisd]

Indeed, have thought about this after reading how hard it is to sex them without a DNA test.

This is why we're hoping to get proven hens, around the 4-5 month period (or more!) I just hope they're still affectionate

 

[parisd]

I went deep into consideration between sand and pea gravel after reading a couple of threads. My biggest fear was the them eating the sand as grit, and it impacting their crop. Is this common or am I reading into it too much? Thanks for the comment!

Hello there and welcome to BYC!

You might reconsider on the pea gravel. The stones can be sharp and they are going to want to dig thru it. This can cause punctures in the pads of the feet. And you will have a hard time cleaning it.  You might try sand in the run. I use sand in the coop and run. It is a wonderful medium to use....easy to clean, no poop smells, no flies, stays dry when wet, you can hose it down in the summer time and it will keep the birds incredibly cool. Here is a nice link on using sand...

https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/444759/got-sand-you-should

Sumi has left you with a link to our learning center. Lots of good articles on all the aspects of keeping your new flock.

Enjoy this new adventure you are on and welcome to our flock!

 

[Michael OShay]

Welcome to BYC! I had some Black Silkies and they were some of the tamest, friendliest chickens that I've ever had. Good luck with your flock.

 

[TwoCrows]

I went deep into consideration between sand and pea gravel after reading a couple of threads. My biggest fear was the them eating the sand as grit, and it impacting their crop. Is this common or am I reading into it too much? Thanks for the comment!
Quote: The sand works as excellent grit for the gizzards. Especially if it contains tiny stones in it. They will not over gorge on it and impact their crops. Babies and chicks can do this, but adults will not eat so much to impact a crop. I understand your concern, but I have never had an issue with this. Lots of members use sand in the coop and run and crop impaction is not an issue from sand.