New to Chickens (no experience)

[VictoriaTexas]

Possums are a menace to chickens. We have them all over the place. I've never seen a mink but I know they are in our area. I occasionally see a skunk but I know there are a lot of them around. Raccoons are the worst predator I've dealt with. I've heard that they will try to pull a chicken through the chainlink fence and will kill it doing so.

I have seen coons.
I raised a couple dozen coturnix for 3 yrs (kidty egg treats) I think that is what got several of them. They're huge !

 

[VictoriaTexas]

I just sent you an invite to the Texas thread.

Thank you

 

[Jener8or]

I'm excited to see how all your plans turn out! It is nice of you to join and research first before you get them. I'm glad you have gotten a lot of good advice! Welcome to BackYard Chickens!

 

[VictoriaTexas]

I'm excited to see how all your plans turn out! It is nice of you to join and research first before you get them. I'm glad you have gotten a lot of good advice! Welcome to BackYard Chickens!

Ive been watching the BYC youtube a long time !

 

[N F C]

Best of luck with all your plans!

 

[VictoriaTexas]

Best of luck with all your plans!

Tell the chickens that

 

[muddy75]

 

[VictoriaTexas]

Tell the chickens that

Im 70 yrs old, they need luck more than I do

 

[VictoriaTexas]

No, you're not. But their brand name is sure deceiving! Always include "layer mix" when you state what you are feeding.

However, I have never liked the practice of feeding layer feed. There are many times during a pullet/hens life where she does not need the extra calcium included in layer feed. And it is challenging to say the least to find one that offers more than the bare minimum of 16% protein.

I have always fed 18-20% protein "all flock" type feed to my flock and just keep 2 containers of oyster shell on the side for free choice feeding. It works quite well. That way when the hens are broody or taking a break from egg production during the winter, their kidneys do not have to work overtime to process all the excess calcium included in the layer feed.

I also provide extra meat protein during the annual molt.

I will definitely keep these thoughts in mind so I am more prepared before the hens arrive Thanksgiving weekend

 

[VictoriaTexas]

I will definitely keep these thoughts in mind so I am more prepared before the hens arrive Thanksgiving weekend

Thank you everyone for your understanding, patience, & direction