New to chickens but wife and I are giving it a go.Love animals and love eggs.How can I go wrong?lol

[chasingthedream]

Hello,
I'm Jeff.I'm new to this.Ready to start though.Have old horse barn.I thought about taking tack room which has concrete flooring and door way into and outside.I was thinking I could build run off of back door.Am worried about hawks where I'm at so think I will take advice of many to only let out when my wife or I are out with them.I live in Southern Mississippi so because it gets cold at times was looking for suggestions on good docile laying breeds and meat birds if SHTF.Only way I could eat them.Anyways will continue researching plan on starting first of march.Will update as I learn from my mistakes.But this forum I think heads me in the right direction.

 

[sunflour]

Glad you joined us.

You may be interested in the Mississippi thread: https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/...-crooked-letter-ahh-nevermind-mississippi/960

Folks in your area may have recommendations on breeds to select.

Personally, I don't allow my hens to free range for predator fears, but if you only let them out when you are in close proximity they will be safer.

Good luck with your plans. Check out the articles in the learning center, there's a lot of great info in the articles. Feel free to post questions. The forums offer a wealth of experience.

 

[drumstick diva]

welcome to the Backyard chickens flock, hope you enjoy BYC as much as we do.

 

[N F C]

Welcome to BYC! There are a lot of very good articles under the Learning Center tab you may want to check out (if you haven't already). Feel free to ask questions, everyone is here to help.

 

[Wyandottes7]

Welcome to BYC!

We're glad to have you.

For more information on making a predator-proof coop, you may want to check out the Coops section (Coop Designs) or visit the Predators and Pests forums: Predators and Pests

My personal favorite docile laying breed that can also be used for meat is the Wyandotte. Mine have been very good layers, docile and sweet birds, and come in many pretty colors for those who might want a varied flock. To look at more breeds, check out the Breeds section:Chicken Breeds It should have some good ideas for your flock.

 

[Kelsie2290]

Hello and Welcome To BYC!

 

[TwoCrows]

Hello there and welcome to BYC!

I too have many predators in my area so I let them out for about an hour or so a day under supervision. They really enjoy getting out and don't seem to mind that it is only for a short period of time. As long as they get out each day even for 30 mins, they are quite happy.

Enjoy all your poultry adventures and welcome to our flock!

 

[Mountain Peeps]

 

[BantamLover21]

Glad you joined us!