Hello BYC people! My wife and I built a coop from plans this spring, finally put the finishing touches on a couple weeks ago. Got 4 mature hens from a coworker, 3 silkies and a something else a couple weeks ago. Getting a couple eggs a day. I figure the move stressed them of course but they're all getting comfortable in the new coop and run. They're still freaked out by our dogs (2 schnauzer/poodle mixed) but seem to realize the TSC panels will keep them safe. Need to read up on how to get my dogs to not think of the chickens as prey/food. One of my sweet dogs just looks at me as if it were Christmas morning and I just won't turn over those Christmas presents. The dogs have caught/killed a couple rodents, a bird or two, and a baby rabbit or two in the fenced 1/2 acre back yard we have. Would ultimately love for the chickens to be able to free-range the yard, but for now the Tractor Supply Company panels are making their run and will be adjustable later. We planted a 20x40ft garden this year with a mix of things. Chickens are loving the ears of corn that have been eaten on by bugs. They love to peck those down to the bare cob. Will be getting some more TSC panels to go around the garden. Until the tomatoes start turning red we'd like to put the chickens on the garden for bug control. The TSC panels will keep the chickens safe from the dogs and "on target". Enjoying the additional critters in our life so far, enjoying the eggs, and looking forward (somewhat) to learning how to prepare chickens for the table.
Greetings from Kansas, erikk, and ! Great to have you in our flock! Good luck with your poultry plans!!
Silkies are known for many things but, egg laying is not one of them. They do lay eggs but, it's not something you can count on. The "other something," you have may be a better layer