Newbie here

[outdoor junkie]

Quote:
8 weeks for outside.
It is 95 degrees the first week and drops 5 degrees per week. so week 2 90 etc.

You can move them into the garage I would say by 2 weeks with a heat lamp if you don't live where there is tons of snow and the garage is you know... in the 20's. If it is reasonable in the garage, you can brood there.

Flying over the fence... sounds like you have LF so not really....wander off to the neighbors property... yes.. you need a fence.

PS I want watch dog chickens

! Don't know what breed, you are going to have to post pics. and keep us posted!

I plan on keeping them indoors until I think it is warm enough. Probably a few more weeks until the nightime temps are at leat 30-40 degrees here. What do you mean when you say LF? I do have a fence around the property but it is only a 4' high chain link, just hoping they won't be going over it all the time. Thank you for the info all, it is very helpful.

here they are I will get a better pic of them in a few minutes.

 

[Hillbilly Hen]

&

from west Michigan!

LF means Large fowl. The black ones look kind of like Black Australorps. If that is the case then you will love them as they are usually very sweet tempered birds.

Check the link in my siggy for info on the upcoming Michigan chickenstock.

 

[N&MSchroeder]

Quote:
I wouldn't have your yard sprayed if you are planning to have chickens roaming on it.

You might want to verify this with the lawn company though. Maybe it would be okay if you leave them off of it for a certain amount of time.

 

[Hoosierchickens]

If they are "watchdog types" maybe you got emu's.

Sorry....not very helpful.

 

[ChicknLittleLexi]

I'm new too, welcome

 

[ChicknLittleLexi]

And I agree with the emu comment! Or maybe you got ostriches? haha!

 

[Sorin]

I think most of your questions were answered so I'll tackle the coop one. Try this link http://www.mypetchicken.com/backyard-chickens/chicken-care/chapter-5-chicken-coop-requirements.aspx it covers all the basics you'll need for a coop without me having to type it all out LOL

And I think your should is a good size for four hens. Good luck!

 

[outdoor junkie]

Thank you all, the info is very helpful. Me and the boys are looking forward to raising these birds. Lets not hope I got Emu's, wouldn't that be a surprise.