New to chickens

[JAW]

Hi, I've wanted chickens for years, and am about to get my first. My sons chickens are sitting on eggs as I type. Chicken coop is ordered and due to arrive soon. I would be grateful for any advise in advance please.

 

[SteveUK]

Welcome. I've only just taken my coat off here, but I can say you've come to the right place for advice, tips and a shoulder to cry on.
It's such an exciting time for you. Enjoy.

 

[DobieLover]

Hello and welcome to BYC! Glad you joined.
Chickens require 4 sq ft of space per bird in the coop and 12 sq ft minimum per bird (15 is far better) in the run. Does the coop you ordered provide that?

 

[JAW]

Just about if I stick to 2. However they will be let out to roam so will have more space then. Thanks for advice,

 

[DobieLover]

Just about if I stick to 2. However they will be let out to roam so will have more space then. Thanks for advice,

Do you get snow where you live? Where will the chickens go then?
Where will they go in a heavy downpour?
Where will they go if you get a predator attack and need to secure them for 2 weeks?
There are many reasons to have a properly sized enclosure to confine them to.
Roost time is a rough business. They need enough space to roost in the coop and that is very difficult to do in tight quarters. Just things to be aware of and think about.

 

[Isaac 0]

Welcome to BackYard Chickens!

 

[Pork Pie]

Hi and welcome to BYC. Here are some helpful links:

• Great go-to resource - Articles
• Insightful feedback on how members manage their flocks - Topic of the Week back-catalogue
• How to start a new thread
• Find other BYC members nearby using the links in my signature, below (turn your phone to landscape to see them).
• Hatching / Chick-care

Best wishes

Pork Pie

 

[sourland]

Good morning, and welcome to BYC.

 

[drumstick diva]

Welcome to Backyard Chickens, thank you for joining the flock.

 

[Chick-N-Fun]

Welcome to our FUNomenal community!
Best Wishes & Be Well!