Newbie to the Chicken Life

[KristynLeigh]

I'm new to chicken raising. Well, I haven't actually started yet. We are planning on starting our "flock" during the Spring of '15. We want to do all the necessary research and preparation before we start this endeavor. We're also going to build our own coop. I'm wanting to start out with 6-8 chicks, but I'm wanting a coop big enough for more. I want to start out small to get the swing of things first. Anything I need to know right off???

 

[Mountain Peeps]

Welcome to BYC!

Please make yourself at home and we are here to help.

Good luck planing for your future flock. Yes, chicken keeping is sure addicting so defiantly plan for plenty more in the future. Chickens need 3-4 square feet per bird in their coop area and 8-12 square feet per bird in their run area. Build one nest for every two hens you own. (Leave space for more!)

Defiantly be sure to stop by our Learning Center. I've attached some links from there you should read too.

Good luck and feel free to ask any other questions!

https://www.backyardchickens.com/atype/1/Learning_Center
https://www.backyardchickens.com/a/advice-for-first-time-chicken-owners
https://www.backyardchickens.com/a/taking-the-plunge-getting-my-own-chickens-where-do-i-begin
https://www.backyardchickens.com/a/...s-in-your-city-the-basics-of-raising-chickens
https://www.backyardchickens.com/atype/2/Coops
https://www.backyardchickens.com/products/category/chicken-breeds

 

[TwoCrows]

Welcome to BYC!

Mountain Peeps sure has left you with some reading!! Definitely stop by our learning center first. Lots of info on getting started, how much room chickens need, our coops pages from other members are there and you can get some ideas on what type of coop you need, raising babies, keeping the adults healthy, happy and safe from predators. All kinds of good articles.

Great to have you aboard and enjoy this new adventure you are on!

 

[Kelsie2290]

Hello and Welcome To BYC! Good luck with your poultry project! Mountain Peeps has left you with some great reading to get you started!

 

[KristynLeigh]

Thank y'all so much! I'm looking forward to learning everything there is to know about raising chickens.

 

[gander007]

Well

it sounds like you should have enough time to get everything you will be needing by then

BYC has a very useful learning center

 

[drumstick diva]

just when you think you know it all, something new comes along.

 

[roostersandhens]

 

[sourland]

Welcome to BYC. Search the forums, question away, and PLAN - your chicken adventure will develop smoothly.