Just moved to a rental house with an existing coop in good shape. We will be free-ranging the chicks that are coming this week but am wondering how long we can keep them in the coop as they grow. The sq. ft. is about adequate for 10-12 hens, and I have 25 chicks coming. Wondering whether I should wait on selling started surplus or see if I have any losses before they get too big. Related question concerns fisher cats. From what I understand here in NW MA, they are abundant. The coop is surrounded by a couple of acres of open space on all sides then beyond that woods. There are all the other usual suspects too--raccoons, fox, etc. It's been a long time since I've been able to have chickens, but when I did, the farm was tight to the forest, and I didn't lose that many. No dogs here though, and then I had a very good Newfie. Oh yes, there are many apple trees. Was reading that the chicks like apples, but can they eat too many? Thanks for all input. Sheila
