Newbie in Carson City, NV

Date sort Score sort
LoriE

LoriE

In the Brooder
10 Years
Aug 21, 2009
20
1
32
Carson City, NV
Hello everyone! My family and I live in Carson City, NV. I had 2 egg-laying chickens (Plymouth Rock) growing up, and always wanted to have some now that I have two daughters (ages 7 and 10). I haven't been able to until now because of local codes. Well, Carson City just passed a new ordinance that we can have up to 4 chickens in the city (with no minimum acreage required). I am starting my research on which breeds, etc, and can't wait to learn from you guys! Here are the breeds I think I am considering:

Brahma
Easter Eggers
Delaware
Jersey Giant
Langshan
Plymouth Rock

We have 2 dogs (one of which might actually care about them), as well as feral cats and owls/hawks in the neighborhood. I am considering turning our unused wooden playhouse into the coop, with some additions (nest box, perches, etc) and security for overnighting the birds. Any thoughts on the breeds above, and can I let my chickens "free range" during the day in the backyard (6-foot fencing) when I am gone and the dogs are crated in the house?

Also, do I have to wait until spring to get chicks? We do have some very cold nights here during winter, but very little snow to cover the ground, especially under the trees. Can younger chickens survive outside once they have feathers?

Thanks!
Lori
 
Quote:
And mostly
welcome-byc.gif


Imp
 
Last edited:
welcome-byc.gif
from WI. Check the coop section for some great pictures of converted sheds and playhouses. You'll find ideas for yours, I am sure. I have a fenced in yard, 2 large dogs and a few cats but let the chickens run loose in the yard several hours a day. I was concerned about the owls and hawks we have and did not let the girls run loose until they were good sized. Until then their yard time was in a big wire pen for dogs covered with a tarp. They did not move to the outside coop and pen until they were about 7 weeks old and had a heat lamp during a few colder nights. Since they've been fully feathered no help there
smile.png

I do not let the girls out until after 6:30 or 7 am - we have coyotes that will come up all the way to the driveway and I do see them at dawn. That was the case before I had chickens though, so I don't think the chickens really added any attraction. The dogs are always with me if they go out while the chickens are loose.
I guess you can get chickens by mail order year round but it may be risky when the temperatures are low. I got mine from a guy that has heritage breed livestock and it was within a reasonable driving distance to pick them up. As far as breeds go - Check Henderson's Chicken Breed chart - they have great info on breeds and their hardiness, temperament, sizes etc
caf.gif
 

New posts New threads Active threads

Back
Top Bottom